Fossil Falls

Fossil Falls trailhead to the dry basalt falls

Source figures: Ridgecrest Guide gives 0.5 mile round trip; Calexplornia gives about 0.4 mile round trip from its visit.

Short walk over rough volcanic rock. The basalt is slippery and the channel has open cliff edges; scrambling into it is harder than the walk.

Where to start

From US-395 south of Little Lake, turn east on Cinder Road, an unpaved road, to the trailhead lot. Calexplornia advises against the road when wet or washed out.

Timing & water

Spring and fall are best; summer heat is dangerous. The falls are dry.

Before you go

Calexplornia lists no day-use fee; the nearby campground charges $6 per night.