Hundreds of years ago, Rock Creek changed course and ground it's way through volcanic rock to create a gorge some 600 ft. deep. Snowy peaks in Rock Creek Cyn.. to the West, become the watershed source that supplies Lower Rock Creek. This water has created rich riparian zones that attract diverse birdlife, wildlife, and create a lush environment for wildflowers and vegetation. People can explore this diversity as they hike, fish, bike or just walk the dog along the Lower Rock Creek Trail.

White hot, gaseous flows of volcanic ash exploded from the Long Valley Caldera 700,000 years ago. This material spread for miles down the Owens Valey and cooled to what is now known as Bishop Tuff. Look at the gorge walls and imagine yourself standing in the depth of this volcanic deposit! Erosion and "modes"' different ways volcanic material have been deposited, have added color and dimension to the gorge. Columns, similar to those found in Devil's Postpile National Monument in Mammoth Lakes, can be found along the lower portions of the gorge. Can you find evidence of these?

The steep canyon walls have little vegetative cover. As a result, eroded material finds its way to the bottom. Most mountain bikers find the sandy, twisting trail a challenge. It takes control and attention to maneuver bikes on the downhill and muscle for the grueling pedal uphill. For those who wish to use rods instead of wheels, stocking is done by the Calif. Dept. of Fish & Game. Some areas along the creek have brook, brown and rainbow trout.

During spring and summer months, vegetation will leaf into thick growths of willow, wildrose and aspen. The larger Jeffrey Pine Trees along the gorge bottom are several hundred years old. Jeffrey Pine is identified by it's reddish puzzle llike bark. The smell of the bark may remind you of a familliar scent! Long summer days bring sunlight and warmth into the gorge. Along the trail, wildflowers and blooming brush will keep flower enthusiasts busy for hours. A wildflower book can help you identify the many varieties.

As you travel along the trail, look for resident and migratory birds. They find abundant nesting and foraging sites in creek vegetation and on the dryer slopes above. Listen for the "per-chick-o-ree" of the migrating American Goldfinch or the Wilson's Warbler in nearby willows with its musical notes. In early spring, try to imitate the "Fe-be-be" sound of the mountain chickadee. The song of the rufous sided towhee sounds like "drink-you-tea". When you hear a grating "kr-a-a-a", look for the Clark's Nutcracker. The creek also draws mule deer, raccoon, skunk and snakes. Do you see signs of their predators? Signs of a successful hunt?

As you enjoy the Lower Rock Creek trail, you may not see many directional markers, but you most likely will encounter other trail users. Respect each persons desire to explore this unique area. Be mindful of your actions and how they affect others and the surrounding environment. The natural state of the gorge provides a place to explore and discover. This portion of Rock Creek has been chosen for study and possible inclusion in the Wild and Scenic River program. BLM seeks to manage and protect Lower Rock Creek in as natural a state as possible.

Enjoy your Visit!