Medicine Lake Volcano peak
Medicine Lake Volcano rises to 7,913 ft in Pacific-Ranges within the Cascade Range range.
It is an impressive shield volcano with an elevation of 7,795 feet (2,376 meters) and a diameter of approximately 4.3 miles (7 kilometers). This dormant volcano is known for its unique geology and fascinating natural features.
During the winter season, the snowpack on Medicine Lake Volcano varies depending on the prevailing weather conditions. The area receives an average snowfall of about 20-30 feet (6-9 meters) annually, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. The snowpack creates excellent opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Medicine Lake Volcano is the source of several creeks and rivers that receive runoff from its slopes. These include the Medicine Lake Creek, which flows to the south and eventually joins the Pit River, and the Squaw Valley Creek, which drains the eastern side of the volcano. The runoff from the mountain contributes to the water supply of the surrounding area, supporting diverse ecosystems and providing habitats for various wildlife species.
The name "Medicine Lake" has a fascinating history. It is derived from the Native American tribes that once inhabited the region, who believed that the lake had healing powers. According to legends, the water of Medicine Lake possessed medicinal properties and was used for various therapeutic purposes. Today, the volcano and the lake continue to be revered by indigenous communities and hold cultural significance.
Sources:
- United States Geological Survey (USGS) - https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/medicine_lake/
- Pacific Crest Trail Association - https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/geology/volcanic-features/
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Pacific-Ranges range.
Snowpack near Medicine Lake Volcano
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Stouts Meadow Goes | 86 in | → |
| Nohrsc Cold Springs Camp | 1 in | → |
Streamflow near Medicine Lake Volcano
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Klamath River Blw John C.Boyle Pwrplnt | 1,360 cfs | → |
| Pit R Bl Pit No 1 Ph Nr Fall River Mills Ca | 1,210 cfs | → |
| Klamath Straits Drain Near Worden | 1 cfs | → |
| Burney C A Burney Falls Nr Burney Ca | 168 cfs | → |
| Pit R Nr Canby Ca | 2 cfs | → |
| Ady Canal At Highway 97 | 21 cfs | → |
| North Canal At Highway 97 | 46 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Medicine Lake Volcano
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Medicine Lake Volcano.
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