Ubehebe Crater is the largest explosive crater in Death Valley at about 500' deep and .5 mile across. The crater is around 2000 years old and was formed by the sudden release of underground steam. The heat from magma (molten rock) turns the groundwater into steam creating intense pressure just below the surface of the ground. When the pressure became too great, the steam blew out of the ground in an explosive event spewing shattered rock over a six square mile area. Next to the major crater is Little Hebe Crater which is smaller yet very well defined. Views from atop the Ubehebe Crater crater rim are spectacular.

Dark soft volcanic sand lines the rim of of Ubehebe Crater.

The Timbisha Shoshone Tribe of Death Valley call this crater 'Wosa' or 'Coyote's Burden Basket' - the place where the people emerged to spread in four directions across the land.

The trail around Ubehebe Crater provides 360 degree views of Death Valley.

A lone Creosote stands atop the crater rim. Badland formations in the background.

Water and erosive forces take their toll on the interior walls of Ubehebe Crater.

Water drainage from scarce yet torrential downpours creates interesting formations.

Standing on the rim of Ubehebe Crater.

The sun sets behind Little Hebe Crater, adjacent to the main crater.

Drainage formations between Little Ubehebe and the main Ubhebe Craters.