Earthquake Fault — Attraction in Mammoth Lakes

The earthquake fault, or technically fissure, is a fun place to visit. it is a very short walk from the parking lot, and if you go when it is not too or hot, it can be a pleasant place for a brief outing with children or dogs. There are plenty of trees for shade, and I've never been there when there hasn't been at least a small pocket of snow in the bottom of the fissure, even on a very hot day in July or August. When I was a youngster, we were able to climb down inside the fault, but it is cabled off now for good reason: there are loose rocks and sometimes trees that come down, so you would not want to get caught down in the bottom. If you are looking for a brief, memorable side trip on your way to or from Mammoth Mountain skiing or mountain biking, the earthquake fault is definitely worth a look. Informative Trailhead signs explain the geology of the place....

Very cool Exposed Earthquake Fault! I enjoyed it (despite the unexpected encounters) even with the place in desperate need of attention. Very little to no direction/signs that lead you to the site. Fortunately, it's close enough to the parking lot that you stumble across it walking down the hill 100 yards or so (stairway entrance still somewhat hidden).

Things I encountered there: missing signs - including the main board (no maps or interpretive signs), no park staff-self guided, fenced in so getting close was not an option safety issue???, Tree had fallen onto path/stairs so partially blocked, beware of dog(s) not on leash, Bathroom was somewhat neglected and had overwhelming ammonia smell...only one bathroom open as well. With a that, I still think it's worth seeing just keep in mind it's disappointing to see it in this state, you will definitely see...

Easily the 8th wonder of the world. I’ve been around the world and have seen many places, but this was by FAR the most epic, most exhilarating and most jaw dropping place I ever had the pleasure to witness. The sheer magnitude of this place will forever be etched into your soul. Make sure you devote enough time to this place (5 days at the very least)! I’d fully expect to make two weeks of a trip if you plan to see the devil’s post piles as well. While not as great as the Earthquake Fault, the Post Piles are still a site to behold. Make sure you bring the family and your closest friends, they will all want to behold the world famous...