Fossil Falls Scenic Area along the beautiful Highway 395 contains volcanic lava flows up to half a million years old. Basalt lava was sculpted by rushing water creating the smooth formations seen today. Native American artifacts have been found here dating from 12,000 to 3,000 years ago when the area was a wonderful place to live for its plants, animals and once abundant water supply.
#113 Father Crowley Vista Point
Father Crowley Vista Point provides sweeping views of Rainbow Canyon in Death Valley National Park. Located right off Highway 190 on the west side of the park, beautiful cinder cones and lava flows tumble into the canyon. The Point honors Father Crowley, the Padre of the Desert. He was an advocate for desert tourism and the rebirth of the Owens Valley after Los Angeles stole its water supply leaving nothing for the people to live off.
#46 Cinder Cone National Natural Landmark
Cinder Cone National Natural Landmark is a series of lava flows in the Mojave National Preserve. Surrounded by 32 small volcanoes known as cinder cones, this natural landmark has been erupting for 7.6 million years with the most recent occurring only 10,000 years ago. The lava cooled and emptied leaving behind a cave called a Lava Tube.
Today, a stairwell descends into the tube allowing the visitor to explore this geologic wonderland. The Lava Tube can be accessed by a 5 mile drive on Aiken Mine Road. Use extreme caution as this is a rough gravel road. 4 wheel drive recommended.
