Schonchin Butte

Schonchin Butte is a volcanic cinder cone in Lava Beds National Monument that rises about 582 feet above the surrounding landscape. The cone was built by volcanic ash and cinder deposits from ancient eruptions and displays steep sides throughout.

The volcano erupted over 30,000 years ago, releasing ash and cinder that shaped the current landscape in this region. This eruption was connected to the broader volcanic activity of Medicine Lake Volcano in northern California.

The name comes from Old Schonchin, a leader of the Modoc people who lived in this region during the 1800s. Visitors walking here connect with the indigenous history of the area.

A trail about 1.2 kilometers long leads up to the summit where a fire lookout station stands. The path is straightforward to walk and draws visitors throughout the warmer months.

From the summit, visitors can see three distant snow-capped peaks on clear days that rise far above the surrounding terrain. These wide views across mountain ranges often surprise hikers who expect to see mainly the immediate volcanic landscape.

GPS coordinates: 41.73813,-121.52907

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:48