Flagstaff Lava River Cave
This mile-long lava tube cave was formed roughly 700,000 years ago by molten rock that erupted from a volcanic vent in nearby Hart Prairie. The top, sides and bottom of the flow cooled and solidified first, after which the insides of the lava river continued to flow emptying out the present cave.
Lava Beds National Monument
Lava Beds National Monument is a land of turmoil, both geological and historical. Over the last half-million years, volcanic eruptions on the Medicine Lake shield volcano have created a rugged landscape dotted with diverse volcanic features. More than 800 caves, Native American rock art sites, historic battlefields and campsites, and a high desert wilderness experience await you!
Pluto’s Cave Trail
Pluto's Cave is a lava tube that was formed by an eruption of basaltic lava which originated from a vent about 8 miles to the northeast, between Deer Mountain and The Whaleback. Visitors can safely hike approx 1200 feet into the cave.
Mojave Lava Tube
While the best ones in California are up by Lassen National Park and Lava Beds National Monument, this lava tube in Mojave National Preserve is worth the rough road you have to drive to get to it. When I say rough, I do mean that I wouldn’t take this drive in a small Honda Civic; while not horrible, it is pretty sketchy in some parts, especially with the rocks; however, if you make it there, you will be rewarded with a story to tell. Here is all the information.
Thurston Lava Tube
Walk through a verdant rainforest and listen for the calls of native birds before entering a 500-year old lava tube where a river of 2000 degree fahrenheit (1093° celsius) lava once flowed. Its Hawaiian name, Nāhuku, means "the protuberances," which possibly refers to the lava drippings that once hung from the ceiling. Unfortunately, those disappeared due to souvenir collectors after the tube was discovered in 1913. Entire ecosystems of creatures live in these fragile environments found throughout the Island of Hawaiʻi. Please be respectful and do not touch the walls or any hanging roots.
Bear Trap Lava Tube
Idaho is no stranger to underground caves. We’re home to dozens of them. However, one of the largest and most breathtaking caves is hiding right underneath our nose and most people don’t even know it exists. If you love exploring the underground treasures that Idaho contains then you’ll want to plan a trip to this little-known cave. Believe us. You need to see how massive this thing is with your own eyes to believe it!
El Malpais National Monument
Geological features abound at Big Tubes with lava bridges, collapsed tubes, ‘a‘ā lava flows, and lava tube caves. Hiking at Big Tubes can be a rewarding challenge for those prepared to hike a rugged landscape marked by cairns.
Valley of Fires Recreation Area
From a distance, Valley of Fires appears as barren rock but when you walk through the nature trail there are many varieties of flowers, cactus, trees and bushes typical of the Chihuahuan desert. Animals include bats, roadrunners, quail, cottontails, mule deer, barberry sheep, and lizards. It's also a virtual birdwatcher's paradise with great horned owls, burrowing owls, turkey vultures, hawks, gnat catchers, cactus wrens, sparrows and golden eagles.
Lava River Cave Recreation Site
Lava River Cave, part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, offers self-guided exploration of a mile-long lava tube. The cave was one of the first lava tubes to be discovered in Oregon and is the longest one in the state. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to tour the entire cave (~2.2 miles roundtrip). Initial access descends 55 stairs to a combination of flat boardwalk, uneven surfaces and stairways.
Saddle Butte Lava Tube
The notable wilderness feature in the WSA is the extensive system of lava tubes which winds through the Saddle Butte lava field. This lava tube system has been designated as the Saddle Butte Lava Tubes Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC).
Ape Cave Lava Tube
The full experience at Ape Cave includes the easy exploration of a spacious lava tube, followed by more difficult travel through a smaller, longer, and more rugged lava tube to an exit. Then, enjoy an easy return hike winding through shady forest and crusty lava formations.
Guler Ice Cave Picnic Area
A group of forested picnic areas with tables and fire rings are located adjacent to the Ice Cave, a popular 650 foot long cave that has a beautiful display of ice stalactites and ice stalagmites early in the season. When exploring the cave bring a flashlight/headlamp plus a back-up and a warm jacket even in summer months, as the cave remains cool.