Minerva Spring and Terrace
At temperatures of 161°F, this spring and terrace is considered one of the most colorful and ornate terraces at Mammoth. Minerva has had periods of inactivity throughout its recorded history, but when it is active terraces of porous travertine form rapidly. During the building of a single terrace, travertine precipitates around the edge of a small pool, and can accumulate at a rate of as much as 8.5 inches a year. As the water cascades from terrace to terrace the water cools, allowing algae to grow. Blue-green algae and cyanobacteria, in colors of green, yellow, orange and red.
Minerva Spring and Terrace
At temperatures of 161°F, this spring and terrace is considered one of the most colorful and ornate terraces at Mammoth. Minerva has had periods of inactivity throughout its recorded history, but when it is active terraces of porous travertine form rapidly. During the building of a single terrace, travertine precipitates around the edge of a small pool, and can accumulate at a rate of as much as 8.5 inches a year. As the water cascades from terrace to terrace the water cools, allowing algae to grow. Blue-green algae and cyanobacteria, in colors of green, yellow, orange and red.