black point

The remains of an extinct (probably) volcano that began to erupt under what was a much larger and deeper Mono Lake about 13,000 years ago. Black Point is now a low, rounded cone of ash and welded ash (tuff) about 500' high. It is particularly well known for the unusual fissures in its surface on the western side of the cone: deep cracks, some large enough to walk into. A Google search finds several websites that give much more information about the significance of this volcano (I was sadly excited by the fragments of Sierra Nevada granite embedded in the ash), but the view is worth the visit even if you're not interested in geology.This site is definitely only suitable for the able-bodied. There is no marked path and the surface of the cone is deep ash/sand, but it's not too difficult to follow footprints in the sand a mile or so to the summit, then over it to find the fissures. Be sure to carry water, wear a hat and sunblock, as there is no shelter until you reach the fissures. Black Point also offers absolutely stunning views over Mono Lake and the surrounding valley, including the rhyolite/obsidian domes south of the lake. It was an absolutely magical place on a late September afternoon.