Amboy Crater - , California

Okay, here’s a detailed description of Amboy Crater, presented in a formal and helpful tone, adhering to your specifications:

Amboy Crater: A Unique Geological Feature in California

Amboy Crater represents a compelling destination for visitors interested in geology, hiking, and experiencing the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert. Located in California, this extinct volcanic crater offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s dramatic past. It’s a site that consistently draws admirers for its stark landscape and relatively accessible nature, suggesting a significant level of visitor satisfaction.

Location and Overview

The crater is situated within the Angeles National Forest, approximately 75 miles northeast of Los Angeles. Its geographical coordinates are roughly 34.2267° N latitude and 117.4881° W longitude. Historically, Amboy Crater was an active volcano, erupting approximately 27,000 years ago. Over time, erosion and weathering have sculpted it into a prominent, bowl-shaped peak – a truly remarkable mountain peak.

Key Features and Characteristics

Amboy Crater’s defining characteristic is its impressive size – it’s approximately 1,647 feet (502 meters) in diameter and 640 feet (195 meters) deep. The inner walls of the crater are predominantly composed of pumice, a lightweight volcanic rock formed during explosive eruptions. This creates a landscape almost entirely covered in a fine, powdery material. Due to the nature of this pumice, visitors should be prepared for a challenging but rewarding hike.

• Pumice-Covered Terrain: The pervasive pumice requires sturdy footwear – both for hikers and for canine companions.
• Heat Considerations: The Mojave Desert is known for its extreme temperatures. During the warmer months, visitors should be aware of potential heat advisories and take necessary precautions.
• Limited Vegetation: The environment is arid, with minimal vegetation, contributing to the dramatic, almost lunar, appearance of the crater.

Important Information for Visitors

The hike to the crater’s crest is approximately one hour round trip from the designated parking area. We strongly advise that individuals consider the inherent dangers of traversing the steep, pumice-covered slopes. Children are generally not recommended for this hike due to the potential for falls and the challenging terrain. Proper footwear and an ample supply of water are absolutely essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Contact and Reviews

Address: California (Angeles National Forest)

Phone: N/A

Website: N/A

Specialties: Mountain peak, geological landmark, hiking destination

Opinions: This company has 182 reviews on Google My Business.

Average opinion: 4.8/5

Overall, Amboy Crater presents a unique and memorable experience for those willing to embrace the desert’s rugged beauty. It’s a location that inspires awe and a deeper appreciation for the forces that have shaped the California landscape.

---

Do you want me to elaborate on any particular aspect or provide additional details

👍 Reviews of Amboy Crater

Matt B.

5/5

The earth is completely scorched in this crater, which gives really interesting views when you look at the horizon. There’s also heat warnings everywhere, if you intend to hike during the warmer parts of the year.

Charlie B.

5/5

The hike to the crater's interior and crest takes about an hour round-trip from the parking lot. The crest is pretty dangerous so children are NOT recommended for this. Proper footwear and water are essential. Also, almost the entire area is covered in pumice so if you bring your dogs, ensure they're also in proper footwear!

Daniel V.

5/5

Such great star viewing at night, and nice parking lot. A couple other people camping out at night, cool place to visit for one night

Chris ?. D.

5/5

I can't wait to get the time to come back and see this place up close. Just stopping on the side of the road and getting out for 5 minutes to walk up and take a couple pictures was def cool af. Nature is AWESOME! I'll be back 100% for the full experience when I'm not traveling for work.

Rouge C.

5/5

Had a great time hiking with the family best time to come is in the winter and when it's over cast...

Mr M.

5/5

What do you expect to do here? This place is amazing a must see a must explore location. When you arrive can park in the designated parking they have bathrooms but no washers so you must be prepared with sanitizing wipes. There is no water anywhere so please be prepared bring your water especially on hot summer days. You take the trail to the crater the walk is about a mile long to the crater and another quarter mile hike up the crater to the rim it’s an easy walk nothing too traitorous until you get to the top a bit questionable but doable and a great breathtaking scenery from the top. After take a drive to Baghdad cafe watch the movie if you haven’t yet. Have fun.

Lily L.

5/5

We hiked at the Amboy Crater on Dec 24th, 2024. It was such a fun experience. When we arrived at the trailhead from LA, it was already 1 p.m. Because it was cloudy and it was in 70+F, it was the perfect time to hike here. I was also planning to have a visit in past October. I wouldn’t have been able to hike at the same time because it reached 100+F. Please check before going.
There were plenty of parking spots at the trailhead. The vault toilets were cleaned.
This 4-mile hike took us less than 2 hours to complete, including hiking at the crater rim as well as hiking down to the pit of the crater and taking plenty of pictures. It was moderate hike, it would help with trekking poles (optional). Please take enough water and sunscreen as always.

SIRLUNA (.

4/5

I recently went on a moderate hike to reach the peak of Amboy Crater, and I have to say, it was definitely worth it! There was so much to see along the way, and the views from the top were absolutely stunning. If you're thinking about doing this hike, just make sure to bring plenty of water and some shade, as it can get quite hot out there. Overall, I would highly recommend the Amboy Crater hike over Pisgah - it's just so much better!