Jan 17, 2025 · With its iconic mountains, rivers, and coastline, it’s easy to overlook the adventure of discovering some of Oregon’s underground wonders. Oregon is home to some of the best examples of deep caves and ancient lava beds formed ages ago from the many volcanoes in Oregon’s geological history.

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.

Mar 10, 2020 · Tucked away in the high desert of central Oregon near Bend and Sunriver are hundreds of lava tubes formed in Oregon's violent volcanic past. Adventure seekers will be thrilled to go spelunking and explore these caves during good weather, some of …

Oct 22, 2017 · At just 1,300 years old, the Big Obsidian Flow is the youngest lava flow in Oregon. It covers about one square mile near the Newberry caldera – formed when the volcano's cone collapsed about...

1 day ago · Lava River Cave, located in the Deschutes National Forest, is a must-visit for anyone interested in geology or spelunking. This mile-long lava tube formed over 80,000 years ago and provides a cool, dark escape from the summer heat. Lava River Cave: This cave is the longest continuous lava tube in Oregon. Visitors can explore its dark passages ...

Newberry National Volcanic National Monument includes 54,000+ acres of lakes, lava flows, and spectacular geologic features in central Oregon. The highest point within the Monument is the summit Paulina Peak (7,985 ft.), showcasing views of the Cascades, Newberry Caldera and across the High Desert.

At a mere 1300 years old, the Big Obsidian Flow is the youngest lava flow in Oregon. A one-mile interpretive trail climbs up and onto this impressive lava flow of obsidian (black glass) and pumice, which is located within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

Today, the Lava Lands Visitor Center is the interpretive hub for the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which covers over 54,000 acres of lakes, lava flows, and spectacular geologic features near Bend and Sunriver.

Lava River Cave offers self-guided exploration of a mile-long lava tube. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to tour the entire cave. Initial access descends 150 stairs to an uneven floor and can be challenging.

Lava Cast Forest is a visitor destination within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument near Bend, in the U.S. state of Oregon. It is a geologic feature containing a 6,000 year old lava flow that created lava molds of ancient trees. [1]