Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Explore a vast volcanic wonderland with lava tubes, obsidian flows, crater lakes, and stunning summit views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vast volcanic wonderland with lava tubes, obsidian flows, crater lakes, and stunning summit views.
"A geological and recreational wonderland just a short drive from Bend."
Warm Layers for Caves
Temperatures inside Lava River Cave are consistently cool. Bring a jacket, even in summer!
Bring Your Own Flashlight
While flashlights can be rented, bringing your own ensures you have reliable light for the cave.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lava River Cave
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Explore the longest lava tube in Oregon, a mile-long underground adventure. Bring a flashlight!
Lava Butte Lookout Tower
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Hike or take a shuttle to the summit for panoramic views of the volcanic landscape and surrounding mountains.
Big Obsidian Flow
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Walk through a unique landscape of volcanic glass, the youngest lava flow in Oregon.
Paulina Falls
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Admire the beauty of these picturesque waterfalls cascading into a serene lake setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Lava River Cave
Shuttle to Lava Butte Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Warm Layers for Caves
Temperatures inside Lava River Cave are consistently cool. Bring a jacket, even in summer!
Bring Your Own Flashlight
While flashlights can be rented, bringing your own ensures you have reliable light for the cave.
Timed Entry for Cave
Reservations are often required for Lava River Cave, especially during peak season. Book ahead!
Shuttle Fee for Lava Butte
A small fee applies for the shuttle to Lava Butte's summit. Consider hiking if you prefer.
Tips
from all over the internet
Warm Layers for Caves
Temperatures inside Lava River Cave are consistently cool. Bring a jacket, even in summer!
Bring Your Own Flashlight
While flashlights can be rented, bringing your own ensures you have reliable light for the cave.
Timed Entry for Cave
Reservations are often required for Lava River Cave, especially during peak season. Book ahead!
Shuttle Fee for Lava Butte
A small fee applies for the shuttle to Lava Butte's summit. Consider hiking if you prefer.
Hydration is Crucial
Shade is limited in many areas. Carry plenty of water, especially when hiking the lava fields.
Check Road Conditions
Some interior roads can be washboarded. Drive cautiously, especially to less-visited areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique volcanic landscapes and geological wonders, particularly the Lava River Cave and Lava Butte. The accessibility of paved trails and the stunning views are frequently praised. However, some reviewers noted issues with road conditions and unexpected closures of facilities.
"Area has some cool Volcanic features, took tram to top of Lava Butte. Nice views and simple half mile hike around Crater. We also checked out Paulina Lakes and "The Big Obsidian Flow." Relaxing area, pretty low keyed. Federal Government website doesn't work. Wonder why?"
Jordan Crittenden
"We did the 1.1 mile Trail of the Molten Lands while in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The trail paved and in good condition. It is uphill and some spots are steep. There are informational signs in different sections of the trail. It was incredible to see how far the lava rock stretched. We stopped in the visitor center as well as the lava river caves and lava butte.
We werent able to do the Pauline falls or Obsidian parts as the storms came in quick and hard.
It is definitely a sight to see though. Its a milder trail than some others we've done this week and is an easier walk for most of the trail. There is also a half way point to loop around and you dont have to do the steep uphill portion to the look out area."
Lizzy Carter
"Need to follow lava lands visitor signs. Best to visit a few hours before close as only way to the volcano top is by shuttle. Visitor center has rangers, movies and exhibits providing plenty of information on the entire cascade area. There are paved trails from visitor center into the lava beds. Bring plenty of water and understand shade is very limited in many areas."
Paul P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newberry National Volcanic Monument is conveniently located just south of Bend, Oregon. Take Highway 97 South for about 19 miles from downtown Bend. Follow signs for the monument's various attractions like Lava Butte and Lava River Cave.
Public transportation directly to the monument is limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or consider ride-sharing services from Bend. The monument itself has internal shuttle services for specific attractions like Lava Butte.
Paved roads lead to major attractions like Lava Butte and the visitor center. However, some interior roads, especially those leading to Paulina Lake and the Big Obsidian Flow, can be washboarded and require careful driving.
Access to certain areas of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument may be limited or closed during winter due to snow. Lava River Cave typically closes for the season around mid-September. Always check current conditions before visiting.
Pets are generally allowed in Newberry National Volcanic Monument on leash, but they are not permitted inside the Lava River Cave or on the Lava Butte shuttle. Always check specific area regulations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the monument itself is generally free. However, there are fees for specific services like the Lava Butte shuttle ($5 round trip) and a parking fee for Lava River Cave ($5 per vehicle or a valid recreation pass).
Timed entry reservations are often required for Lava River Cave, especially during its operating season. You can typically secure these through the official Forest Service website or recreation.gov. It's highly recommended to book in advance.
The monument is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like the Lava River Cave and Lava Butte shuttle have seasonal operating hours. The Lava River Cave typically closes around September 15th. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, an America the Beautiful Pass is accepted for parking fees at various locations within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, including Lava River Cave. This can save you money if you plan to visit multiple national parks and monuments.
Yes, there is a visitor center at Newberry National Volcanic Monument that provides valuable information about the area's geology, history, and recreational opportunities. It often features exhibits and ranger programs.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the Trail of the Molten Lands (paved, interpretive), the hike to the Lava Butte summit, and trails around Paulina Lake. The Big Obsidian Flow also has an interpretive trail.
Lava River Cave is a mile-long lava tube that offers a unique underground exploration experience. It's self-guided, requires a flashlight, and stays cool year-round. Be prepared for uneven terrain.
The Big Obsidian Flow is a striking landscape of volcanic glass, the youngest lava flow in Oregon. An interpretive trail allows you to walk through this unique geological feature and learn about its formation.
Yes, the monument features two beautiful lakes within its caldera: Paulina Lake and East Lake. They offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and scenic views.
You might encounter various wildlife in the monument, including deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities include the panoramic views from Lava Butte summit, the dramatic textures of the Big Obsidian Flow, the cascading Paulina Falls, and the unique formations within Lava River Cave (bring a good flashlight!).
Photographing inside Lava River Cave can be challenging due to the low light conditions. A tripod and a camera with good low-light performance are recommended. Ensure your flashlight is powerful enough to illuminate your subject.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best light for landscape photography, especially for capturing the volcanic features and surrounding scenery. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
Drone usage is subject to federal regulations and may be restricted in certain areas, especially for safety and to protect wildlife. Always check the latest drone policies with the U.S. Forest Service before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and general exploration. For Lava River Cave, a wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod are beneficial. Don't forget extra batteries!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Flashlights are a must, and renting them is an option. For stunning views, the Lava Butte Lookout Tower is accessible via a shuttle (for a fee) or a hike. The short loop at the top is manageable for most kids. Paulina Lake offers a chance for picnicking and enjoying the scenery. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities can be spread out.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beyond the main attractions, explore the trails around Paulina Lake and East Lake for more scenic routes. The Lava River Cave offers a different kind of exploration, a subterranean adventure through a lava tube.
Be prepared for varying conditions, carry ample water, and always check trail statuses before heading out. 🤓 Geology and Science Buffs
+1 The Lava Lands Visitor Center is an excellent resource, with exhibits and rangers who can explain the complex geological history of the area. Don't miss the Trail of the Molten Lands for a close-up look at lava formations and tree molds, providing tangible evidence of past eruptions.
Understanding the formation of these features, from cinder cones to lava tubes, makes a visit here incredibly enriching for anyone interested in Earth sciences. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Wonders of Newberry
+1One of the most striking features is the Big Obsidian Flow, the youngest lava flow in Oregon, dating back approximately 1,300 years. This flow is composed almost entirely of volcanic glass, creating a unique and almost alien terrain. Nearby, the Trail of the Molten Lands provides an accessible way to explore this area, with interpretive signs explaining the volcanic processes.
The monument is also home to the Lava River Cave, the longest lava tube in Oregon. Formed by flowing lava that drained away, leaving a hollow tunnel, this cave offers a fascinating glimpse into the subterranean world created by volcanic activity. Exploring it requires a flashlight and warm clothing, as temperatures remain consistently cool.
+1Exploring Lava River Cave
+1Essential preparation includes dressing in warm layers, as the cave's temperature hovers around 42°F (6°C) year-round. Bringing your own reliable flashlight or headlamp is highly recommended, though rentals are often available. The cave floor can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must.
Timed entry reservations are frequently required, especially during the busy summer months. It's advisable to check the official U.S. Forest Service website or recreation.gov for availability and to book your slot in advance to avoid disappointment. Remember that pets are not allowed inside the cave.
Lava Butte: A Volcanic Icon
+1The Lava Butte Lookout Tower at the summit provides an unparalleled vantage point. From here, you can see the vastness of the Newberry Caldera, the surrounding Cascade Mountains, and the expansive lava fields. A short, paved trail around the crater rim allows for easy exploration and photography.
For those who prefer a more active approach, hiking to the summit of Lava Butte is also an option. The trail is approximately 3.8 miles round trip and offers a more immersive experience of the volcanic landscape. Remember to bring water and sun protection, as shade is limited.
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