Death Valley National Park
Ubehebe & Little Hebe Craters

The other big attraction at the northern end of Death Valley is the giant Ubehebe Crater.  This huge, steep sided hole in the ground is more than a half mile wide, and some 750 feet deep.  It last erupted about 2,000 years ago, in an explosion so violent the entire mountain is missing.

From the parking area, there's a short, steep trail that will take you to the crater's upper rim, and if you felt like a longer hike, all the way around.  It's not an easy walk, since the volcanic gravel is deep, and slides out from under your feet as you try to push your way upward.

Next to the Ubehebe Crater, you'll find the Little Hebe crater, just one of about a dozen old volcanoes scattered about the area.  As the name suggests, this one is a little smaller than its more famous neighbor.

Signs warn of the somewhat obvious risk you take as you approach the edge of Ubehebe Crater.  Of course, if you're not smart enough to realize there's a steep, 700+ foot drop directly in front of you, you're probably not bright enough to notice a sign either.

You might find a few wildflowers clinging to the edge of the crater. 

Ubehebe Crater was one of the windiest places I visited on my trip.  Gusts rush up the edge of the crater and could easily blow you over if you come too close to the edge. 

Speaking of wildflowers, the landscape near Ubehebe Crater was carpeted with purple blooms during my visit in April, 2005.  This was a display of color unlike any other I found in the park.

	From Ubehebe Crater, you can begin your trip to another one of the park's attractions: the Racetrack. The large, flat, dry lakebed is a common feature in car commercials.  However, to reach this area, you must be driving a 4wd high clearance vehicle.  Or, attempt it in your rental car at your own risk.  I visited The Racetrack during my 2009 visit to Death Valley -- you can read about that visit here.