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Lava Beds National Monument

Indian Well, Siskiyou County, California

Description

Lava Beds National Monument lies on the north-eastern flank of Medicine Lake Volcano in North-eastern California. It is known for its wide variety of volcanic formations, including lava tubes (natural conduit formed by flowing lava from a volcanic vent), fumaroles, cinder cones and volcanic fields, among others. There are 27 marked entrances to lava tubes and developed trails for public access and exploration as well as trails through the high Great Basin xeric shrubland desert landscape and the volcanic field. The region was historically occupied by the Modoc people and the park includes Petroglyph Point, one of the largest panels of Native American rock art in the country.

Access & Transport

The closest town in Klamath Falls, in Oregon 60km away followed by Weed, CA 130km away. It is 5h drive to both Sacramento and Portland, the 2 closest large cities. Directions info: https://www.nps.gov/labe/planyourvisit/directions.htm Accessibility info: https://www.nps.gov/labe/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm

Instructions & Recommendations

There is no gas available at Lava Beds - the closest could be as far as 1h away, so you are strongly encouraged to top your tank off in one of the nearby communities. Park elevations range from 1200 to 1700m. Cold weather and snow are possible any time of the year.

Meta review

Online reviews are very consistent: it is a long way out but there is plenty to see and do between caves and hikes with spectacular landscapes, including jagged lava flows. Essentially, a geological treasure not to be missed for those passing through the area. Tip: bring headlamps and extra batteries to explore the lava tubes.

Environmental & Social

Green activity and minor positive economic impact on local communities. No over-commercialization here.

Conclusion

This one is reserved for geology and outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who might be passing through road-tripping between Oregon and California. Logistics aside, the park is worth half a day of even a full day visit if properly equipped for the lava tubes and hiking. Bring your own sandwiches.

Key positive

Diversity of geological features

Beautiful landscapes

Key negative

Time consuming to get to

Suitability

Trails and caves are not accessible to visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in July 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Visitor Center Hours: 09h30 to 17h00

av. transport time:2h

est. visit time:5h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
7-Day pass for individual on foot/bicycle is $15, for motorbike $20 and car $25

Max number of travellers:

Min. Child age:3

Max. child age:11

Traveller #
Adult
Child
1
US$25
US$25
2+
US$0
US$0

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