Nature
Schonchin Butte, a cinder cone on the northern flank of Medicine Lake Volcano in northern California, formed more than 30,000 years ago when an eruption hurled ash and cinders that built the cone from cooling lava fragments. Named for Old Schonchin, a Modoc chief, it remains a prominent volcanic landform with a summit spatter rampart and broad views across the surrounding region. Its fire lookout, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1939 and 1940 and first staffed in 1941, preserves much of its original character. Still used during fire season, it also stands as an enduring part of the area's fire-detection history.
Hear stories like this as you drive
ExploreHere reads historical markers out loud as you pass them: over 325,000 stories across the US. No account needed.
4.7 · 800+ ratings · Free
FIND IT
California · United States
