Mojave National Preserve

Hole in the Wall And The Rings Loop Trail

General Info | Maps | Description |  Things to Do | Camping/Lodging | Nearby

The volcanic rock formations in the area make this a popular recreation site. Favorite activities in the area include camping, picnicking and hiking. Rock climbing on the volcanic rocks is not recommended because of their crumbly nature. Fall and spring are the most popular seasons for camping, with winter and summer providing variable weather conditions and temperatures.

Trail to overview platform.

Trail to Rings

Over million of years, eruptions spewed layers of lava and ash over this area. Uneven cooling and gases captured during the eruption, formed "holes " in the rock. Erosion has enlarged these holes to create spectacular caverns. The oxidation of iron in this volcanic mater lends a contrasting reddish color to the gray background.

The volcanic flows and surrounding land were eventually altered by the action of wind and rain transforming the original landscape to what you see today. The small table topped plateaus (mesas) are isolated remnants of these flows and show the powerful forces of erosion.

There is a well developed campground with running water and toilet facilities. There are two unmaintained trails available at Hole-in-the-Wall. One leaves from the picnic area and travels west through the volcanic rock. This trail involves a descent down metal rings and scrambling around and over many boulders. Discover how Hole-in-the- Wall got its name as you enter Banshee Canyon. Resembling Swiss cheese, the walls of the canyon invite further exploration, but be careful where you put your hands and feet. Climb out of Banshee Canyon to the picnic area with the help of metal rings mounted in the rock. There is also a overlook of the canyon for those who do not want to hike the canyon. Return to the Information Center on a short dirt road. This hike is for the experienced hiker.

Taking photos from the overview platform, see hole in wall upper right.

The Hole-in-the-Wall Campground, located at 4,400 feet elevation and surrounded by sculptured volcanic rock walls, is a wonderful spot for camping. It has 35 campsites with areas large enough for motorhomes and trailers, and two walk-in tent sites. Facilities include pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, trashcans, and drinkable water on a limited basis. There are no utility hookups but there is a sanitary disposal station. For camping information more ...

Visitor Center for area

General Info | Maps | Description |  Things to Do | Camping/Lodging | Nearby

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