![]() The village of Mammoth Lakes is the perfect staging point for many High Sierra adventures. Getting ThereMammoth is situated between the Yosemite area to the north and Bishop area to the south. Volcanic unrest since 1980 in the vicinity of Mammoth Lakes in the southern part of the Long Valley caldera has increased concern among scientists over the possibility of a volcanic eruption in the future. Camping has been prohibited in the tree kill area since 1995, to prevent asphyxiation of campers due to accumulation of carbon dioxide in tents and restrooms. This high concentration causes trees to die in six regions that total about 170 acres (0.688 kmĀ²) in size (see photo, below). Measurements of the total discharge of carbon dioxide gas at the Horseshoe Lake tree kill area range from 50-150 tons per day. The concentration of carbon dioxide in the ground reaches over 50%. Mammoth is outgassing large amounts of carbon dioxide out of its South flank, near Horseshoe Lake. Mammoth lies on the South end of the Mono-Inyo chain of volcanic craters, some of which erupted as recently as 250 years ago. Mammoth Mountain is composed primarily of dacite and rhyolite some of which have been altered by hydrothermal activity from fumaroles (steam vents). The mountain was formed from a long series of eruptions that started about 200,000 years ago and lasted to perhaps 50,000 years ago, although the volcano is still active with minor eruptions the largest of which was a minor phreatic (steam) eruption 600 years ago. There are mutiple views to the south including Bloody Mountain and many lakes. The Ritter range and Minarets command views to the north. ![]() This mountain is well worth climbing off trail with many steep yet enjoyable routes to the summit. As with most ski villages at least 1 peak has to be sacrificed to the tourist god, Mammoth is the lamb of the area. ![]() The summit is more traveled by gondola riders, skiers and mountain bikers. ![]() A direct climb can be the perfect day if you are pressed for time as you can park right at the base. Everyone from downhill mountain bikers to climbers will find recreation on the broad slopes of this peak. At 11,053 feet it is a playground for many outdoor pursuits in the Mammoth Area. OverviewWest of Mammoth Lakes, California sits the broad volcano called Mammoth Mountain. ![]()
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