Lava Beds National Monument
Lava Beds National Monument is a place of geological turmoil in the past, too. It explosions of the Medicine Result from a volcanic eruption in a lake shield, a rough terrain studded with various volcanic structures over the past half-million years. You’re in for a high desert wilderness experience with over 800 caverns, Native American rock art locations, historic battlefields and campsites, and more.
The greatest number of tube caverns in the United States can be found at this monument. The adjacent Medicine Lake Volcano sculpted the tube-shaped formations known as tube caves from the outer layers of cooling molten lava. You can take self-guided and guided tours of these caves to observe the rock formations and art. In addition, if you go there in the winter and make advance arrangements, you can visit the ice caves.
Caving At Lava Beds National Monument
Cave exploring might be the most popular thing to do at Lava Beds. With the right gear and understanding of safety, you can enter the park caves and look at the amazing rock formations. Many of the built caves are close to the Visitor Center and can be reached by trails and stairs. They are separated into groups based on their hard work so there is something for everyone. Talk to the park rangers about cave rules and closed areas.
Guided Tour of Fern Cave At Lava Beds National Monument
During the warmer months, you can sign up for a guided tour of Fern Cave, which will provide you with additional knowledge and a one-of-a-kind experience. The rest of the caves in this area are open to self-guided exploration. However, the ecosystem inside Fern Cave is very delicate and one of a kind. It is recommended that you make a reservation as long as possible for this tour since it is extremely popular and that you come prepared to see some incredible rock art.
Hiking At Lava Beds National Monument
The Lava Beds National Monument is home to thirteen different hiking routes. Most of the walks in this region are brief, but they will take you to some incredible geological and historical sites. Because it is so dry here, pack plenty of water with you. On top of that, to maintain the area’s natural state, neither bicycles nor pets are permitted on any hiking route.
Crystal Ice Cave Tour
You may view amazing ice formations that form during the winter months in addition to rock formations. Make sure you study and evaluate your capabilities before you embark on this strenuous expedition involving physical exertion, heights, and confined areas. Also, reserve your spots early as you would for Fern Cave. Due to the delicate circumstances, the guided groups are very small and infrequent, and ice cave trips are only offered during the winter.
Visit a Museum At Lava Beds National Monument
Please study the region’s past during the months that are not peak tourist season or when the weather is unfavourable, such as when it is raining too much. Throughout the history of the United States, it has served as the setting for several important conflicts and other events. There is a museum located on the Tulelake-Butte County Fairgrounds that can provide you with more information about the frequently unexplored Northeastern California region.
Address: 1 Indian Well, Tulelake, CA 96134, United States
Opens–Closed: 10 am-4 pm
Phone: +1 530-667-8100
Established: November 21, 1925
Management: National Park Service
Visitors: 135,286
