Earthquake Fault

Earthquake Fault is located in Mammoth Lakes California, just across Highway 203 from Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort. Although called Earthquake Fault, the correct naming would be Earthquake Fissure. A fault is a fracture of the earth’s crust in which the sides have moved relative to one another. This isn’t the case here. Additionally, the fissure’s formation likely wasn’t due to an earthquake.

The fissure is upwards of 60 feet deep and 10 feet wide. It is unknown how old the Earthquake Fault is, but it is at least 160 years in age, with some believing it may have formed during the Inyo/Mono Craters eruptions around 600 years ago.

A short trail leads from the parking area and loops around the fissure. Please don’t cross the fencing to enter the fissure. There is also a nice picnic area at the trailhead with picnic tables and grills.