The monument protects 224,676 acres (909.23 km2) of forest and mountain habitat in Siskiyou County from development.

[2][3] President Joe Biden established the monument by proclamation under the Antiquities Act on January 14, 2025.

These highlands provide clean water for communities downstream through its extensive aquifers.

The Giant Crater has the world's longest lava tube system[1] The Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway includes a segment that loops around Medicine Lake.

[9] The Forest Service hosted a public meeting about the proposed monument in December 2024.