Crack in the Ground is an ancient volcanic fissure over 2 miles long and up to 70 feet deep in Lake County, Oregon. Normally, fissures like this one are filled in with soil and rock by the processes of erosion and sedimentation, but because Crack in the Ground is located in such an arid region, very little filling has occurred. As a result, Crack in the Ground exists today nearly as it did shortly after its formation thousands of years ago.
Know Before You Go:
Access is via rugged dirt roads that may be impassable at times. Four-wheel drive vehicles are highly recommended. Facilities at the Green Mountain facilities include 6 designated campsites, a vault toilet, picnic tables, and fire grates. This is a primitive campground so please pack out all of your trash. The fire lookout atop Green Mountain is manned from June through October. The nearest services are in Christmas Valley, Oregon.
Directions:
From the town of Christmas Valley, head east on the Christmas Valley Highway for approximately 1 mile. Turn north (left) onto Crack in the Ground Road and continue for about 7 miles, being sure to turn left onto Lava Craters Road, following signs to Crack in the Ground.
Point of Interest:
A trail along the fissure's bottom allows for visitors to hike the crack’s length - and cool off, due to a temperature up to twenty degrees lower than the surface.
Contact:
Bureau of Land Management, Lakeview District
1301 South G Street
Lakeview, OR 97630
541-947-2177
[email protected]
<a href="https://www.blm.gov" rel="nofollow">www.blm.gov</a>