The Ubehebe Craters, located at the north end of Death Valley, are believed to have formed when magma in the subsurface came into contact with groundwater, which flashed to steam, exploding through the overlying rock layers, and creating 13 phreatomagmatic craters. But when? And how quickly? Spread over time or in quick succession? Recent research conducted by Dr. Calzia and his colleagues determined that these events occurred about 2,100 years ago, over a very short period of geologic time (perhaps as short as a year!).

You are invited to join Dr. Jim Calzia, USGS Geologist Emeritus on October 7, 2023, to examine these volcanic features, study their geology, and test the timing of their origin. Group will meet near the flagpole at Death Valley Visitor Center at 8:45 AM and return by 4:00 PM. Note that this trip includes a 2-3 mi hike (round-trip) on a well-marked trail over loose volcanic rocks, so bring your hiking shoes, poles, water, etc., etc., and let’s go take a look!

We hope to see you there.

TWO WAYS TO BUY

Get a ticket for an individual
Or buy a "Carload" ticket and SAVE – one price for as many as one private vehicle can hold (sedan / mini-van / SUV / pick-up)

PROGRAM DETAILS

Meet at 8:45 by the flagpole in front of the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.
Participants and leaders will caravan in their own private vehicles on paved roads to program locations.
There will be a brief break for lunch around noon; participants are responsible for bringing their own lunches, snacks, and water.
The program includes a hike of 2-3 miles on marked trail, with short sections of steep grade.

NOTES

By registering for this event, you agree to DVNHA's terms and conditions, and safety protocols.

Each participant is required to sign a Participant Agreement. Please fill-in program title and date; bring your signed copy with you to the meet-up location.

At least 2 liters of water per person strongly recommended.

**Please note that participants are still responsible for paying the park entrance fee upon arrival and that the price of this event does not include any meals or lodging accommodations.

More info: General FAQs

Proceeds support DVNHA’s mission of preserving and interpreting the natural and cultural resources of the Death Valley region in cooperation with our government partners: Death Valley National Park and Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge.

If you have any questions, please contact program coordinator at events@dvnha.org.

Exploding Water – Fractured Earth

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