description Hole-in-the-Ground Overview
Hole-in-the-Ground is a large Pleistocene-era maar volcano located in Lake County, Oregon. It was formed approximately 100,000 years ago by explosive phreatomagmatic eruptions, which occurred when rising magma interacted with groundwater. The crater measures roughly a mile across and 300 feet deep, making it a prominent geological feature in the Fort Rock basin. Today, it serves as a destination for geologists and hikers interested in volcanic landscapes.
help Hole-in-the-Ground FAQ
Is Hole-in-the-Ground an impact crater?
No. It is a maar formed when rising magma interacted explosively with groundwater, not when a meteorite struck Oregon.
How large is Hole-in-the-Ground?
The roughly circular crater is about a mile across and several hundred feet deep. It lies in the Fort Rock Basin of Lake County, Oregon.
Can you drive to Hole-in-the-Ground?
Forest roads reach the crater rim, but surfaces and seasonal access can vary. Visitors should use a current Deschutes National Forest map and expect remote conditions without developed visitor facilities.
Is Hole-in-the-Ground connected to Newberry Volcano?
It sits near the southern margin of lava fields associated with the Newberry volcanic region. Its explosive maar formation differs from Newberry's much larger caldera and extensive lava flows.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
