• Crack in the Ground is a unique geological fissure near Christmas Valley
• You can explore a 2-mile trail through this deep and fascinating geological formation
A unique geological wonder, Crack in the Ground is located 8 miles north of Christmas Valley. This volcanic formation features two parallel rock walls stretching roughly 2 miles in length and reaching depths of up to 70 feet in some places. The average width between the walls is approximately 10 feet.
You can hike through much of the fissure, following its length along a rugged and adventurous trail. Along the way, you encounter fascinating crevices, small caves, cracks, and unique rock formations, creating an unforgettable experience and offering fantastic opportunities to capture striking photos.
While the exact time of its formation remains unknown, it is estimated that the fissure has remained open for roughly 12,000 years.
It was formed during an eruption of the Four Craters Lava Field, which caused parts of the ground to sink, forming the fissure seen today and creating the striking volcanic and tectonic feature.
Unlike many other fissures, Crack in the Ground remains relatively free of sediment and erosion, preserving its natural appearance over time.
The trail is open year-round for foot travel only.
Access to the parking area and trailhead may require a four-wheel-drive vehicle in winter conditions.
Restrooms are available on site, but there is no drinking water, so visitors should bring plenty of their own.
Be sure to bring warm clothing, as temperatures inside the fissure can drop to around 30°F even in summer.
Places To Stay near Crack-In-The-Ground
Green Mountain Campground, located about 6 miles northeast, offers primitive campsites with vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire grates on a first-come, first-served basis.
The nearest towns with a wider range of lodging options—including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals—are La Pine, Bend, and Lakeview.
Lodging in La Pine - 74 miles northeast
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in La Pine
Crack-In-The-Ground | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Location: Four Craters Lava Field
Amenities: A restroom, no drinking water
Activities: Hiking, nature viewing, photography
Trail Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)
Hike difficulty level: Moderate
Elevation gain: 70 ft (21 m)
Distance from the parking: 0.35 miles (0.5 km)
Road access: High-clearance vehicles are recommended; the road may be inaccessible in wet or snowy conditions
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 4,500 ft (1,372 m)
Crack-In-The-Ground is located:
- 102 miles southeast of Bend
- 109 miles north of Lakeview
- 179 miles east of Eugene.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Crack-In-The-Ground
From Bend,
- Travel 31 miles south on US-97 to OR-31
- Turn left onto OR-31 (Fort Rock Highway) after La Pine and drive 29 miles to County Road 5
- Turn left and follow 22.5 miles to Christmas Valley Road
- Turn left onto Christmas Valley Road and go 12.1 miles to Millican Road
- Turn left onto Millican Road and continue 7.3 miles to the parking area.
Phone: 541-947-2177