Hot Stuff: Geology of Amboy Crater (UCRX, .5 units)

Southern California is known for its trembling fault lines, quirky rock outcroppings, and majestic mountains. But we’ve got other geological wonders too — like volcanoes! One of the finest examples of a cinder cone you’ll ever stumble across is located right here in the Mojave Desert: Amboy Crater. Learn about this designated National Natural Landmark and other dormant volcanoes that stretch across the desert in this full-day geology lesson. Experience endless lava fields and learn about the formation of the Swiss-cheese-like appearance of the rock as you hike the rim of this iconic crater. 4-mile round trip to the rim of the crater and back.

• This class is held at the Amboy Crater in the Mojave Trails National Monument.

• This excursion is suitable for intermediate to experienced hikers. No geology expertise is required.

• No park pass is required.

• No meals or equipment are provided.

• Participants are responsible for their own transportation. Carpooling is encouraged.

Activity level: This class is strenuous. It requires 5 or more miles of walking, which may include several hours outdoors in the elements, significant elevation gain, and variable terrain. You will need personal equipment.

Required items for participants: 

• Water, between 3 and 4 liters per person for a full-day outing

• Food and snacks

• Closed-toe athletic shoe

• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

• Appropriate clothing 

• Daypack

• Notebook and pencil

• Compass/GPS device

• Camera

• Binoculars 

• Field guides 

• “Roadside Geology of Southern California” by Arthur Gibbs Sylvester and Elizabeth O’Black Gans. Available at the Joshua Tree National Park visitor centers or joshuatree.org

Participants earn .5 units toward a Desert Ecology & Conservation Certificate. Eligible Desert Institute classes can be taken for fun or for credit toward a certificate. To earn the certificate, you must complete 12 units of eligible classes within three years. We offer a variety of classes each season! The certificate is available through UCR Extension. You do not need to be a current student in any academic program to earn the certificate. Units do not contribute to any academic degree.

Photo credit: JTNPA/Reilly Powell