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