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Map Satellite A variety of volcanic features of Quaternary origin is found in this area, the most conspicuous being the cinder cone Deer Mountain. To the south of the mountain are two explosion pits, the Inyo Craters, in which small lakes have formed. Associated with the pits are pumice and obsidian flows. These flows have been dated between 500 and 850 B.P. Between the pits and the mountain is a small, roughly circular, obsidian flow. Much of the area is covered by pumice.
Vegetation is varied. A Jeffrey pine, Pinus jeffreyi, forest, with a few white fir, Abies concolor, covers most of the area. The sparse understory includes Ceanothus velutinus and Ribes sp.
On the pumice flats there is some sparse grassland with Lupinus sp., Eriogonum sp., and a sagebrush-bitterbrush scrub. The rare Astragalus monoensis may occur here.
Animals are typical of the eastern Sierra Jeffrey pine forest.
Integrity: There are roads and trails. Some damage to the vegetation has resulted from off-road-vehicle use.
Use: Research, educational, observational.
December 1979
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman
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