Bodie Mountain

Name: Bodie Mountains
WSA Complex: Bodie Hills
Acreage: 23,360
Location: northeast of Lee Vining

Natural Values:

Like other WSAs in the Bodie Hills Complex, Bodie Mountain’s topography and geology were formed by volcanic activity. And, the topography has it all – from rolling hills to steep, rocky escarpments. Vegetation varies as well – with pinyons and junipers in rocky higher elevation areas, dense aspen groves in riparian areas, and sagebrush in lower valleys. Canyons and meadows further add to the structural and biological mosaic of the Bodie Mountains. This area is optimal fawning habitat for mule deer, and also supports sage grouse and waterfowl.

The Big Alkali Basin, located in the center of the WSA, is a wetland area with hot springs. Colorful Rainbow Trout can be found in Clark Canyon Creek.

Cultural Values:

Large sources of obsidian rock, used by the Paiute Indians to make arrowheads and tools, give the area cultural importance.

In addition, there are some features found in this WSA that are associated with the historic ghost town of Bodie, such as a historic Chinese settlement and a wood pole transmission line. The transmission line was the first infrastructure built to transmit electricity over long distances.

Recreational Values:

This is great terrain for cross country skiing. The hot springs are a great place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Other activities: backpacking, camping, photography, horseback riding, ORV use on designated roads, deer hunting.