Earthquake Fault
Overview
The Earthquake Fault is one of the most accessible examples of an active fracture zone in the Sierra Nevada. This deep, linear fissure exposes the volcanic rock layers that make up much of the Mammoth Lakes landscape. Despite its name, it wasn't formed by a single dramatic earthquake, rather, it's a fracture that developed gradually through tectonic stretching as the Earth's crust slowly pulled apart. Geologists believe the visible section opened roughly 550 to 800 years ago, which geologically speaking, is practically real-time! The fissure runs about 10 feet wide and up to 60 feet deep, offering a vivid firsthand look at forces still reshaping the region today.
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