Lava Cast Forest Newberry National Volcanic Monument Oregon
Explore a mile-long paved trail through a unique lava field, witnessing ancient tree molds and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience solitude and quiet
Lava Cast Forest Newberry National Volcanic Monument Oregon
Best Time
Experience solitude and quiet
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a mile-long paved trail through a unique lava field, witnessing ancient tree molds and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
"A unique, easy walk to explore and learn about Central Oregon's beautiful volcanic landscape."
🚗 Gravel Road Ahead
The 7-mile drive to the trailhead is gravel; check conditions, especially after rain.
🚶♀️ Paved & Accessible Trail
The mile-long loop is paved and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lava Cast Forest Loop Trail
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Walk a paved mile-long trail through a fascinating lava field, witnessing unique tree molds left by ancient eruptions.
Tree Molds
Lava Cast Forest
Marvel at the intricate shapes left behind when molten lava encased ancient trees, creating natural sculptures.
Volcanic Vistas
Lava Cast Forest
Enjoy expansive views over the dramatic lava flows, a testament to the powerful geological forces at play.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Unique Volcanic Landscape
Timing is Key for Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Gravel Road Ahead
The 7-mile drive to the trailhead is gravel; check conditions, especially after rain.
🚶♀️ Paved & Accessible Trail
The mile-long loop is paved and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
☀️ Limited Shade
Be prepared for sun exposure; bring water and sun protection.
🤫 Seek Serenity
Visit on weekdays for a chance to have the forest to yourself.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Gravel Road Ahead
The 7-mile drive to the trailhead is gravel; check conditions, especially after rain.
🚶♀️ Paved & Accessible Trail
The mile-long loop is paved and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
☀️ Limited Shade
Be prepared for sun exposure; bring water and sun protection.
🤫 Seek Serenity
Visit on weekdays for a chance to have the forest to yourself.
🗺️ Informative Plaques
Learn about the volcanic history and formations along the trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lava Cast Forest for its unique geological formations and accessible paved trail, offering a fascinating glimpse into volcanic history. Many appreciate the solitude found here, especially when visiting on weekdays. While the gravel road access is noted, most find the experience well worth the journey.
"It’s a bit of a drive on a washboard dirt road for 10 miles. But once you arrive, it’s worth the trip. There is a mile of paved pathway suitable for a wheelchair, which is great. The loop takes you over and around a super cool lava field. You learn as you walk with informative plaques. We didn’t see another person while we were there until we left. It was amazing to experience the beauty and silence that come with being alone in the woods."
Carrie Riley
"Fascinating piece of volcan landscape. The number of tree casts is truly impressive. Marvelous vistas over lava flows. The trail through the area is fairly easy walking - especially the first half which is paved. Most cars can reach the parking lot although there was a moderate amount of big truck traffic on the road."
Don Hall
"A unique, easy walk to explore and learn about Central Oregon's beautiful volcanic landscape. So cool to see the special tree molds! This nature walk is paved and quite accessible (my 70 year old mom and 3 year old daughter had no trouble walking it). It's 45 minutes away from Bend and requires driving on gravel and dirt roads."
Michael Lui
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lava Cast Forest is located south of Bend, Oregon. Access involves driving on approximately 7 miles of gravel road, which can be muddy depending on the season. Most standard cars can reach the parking lot, especially in summer months.
No, the road leading to the Lava Cast Forest trailhead is a gravel road for about 7 miles.
Yes, most regular cars, including those with rear-wheel drive, can access the Lava Cast Forest, especially in drier months like June.
From Bend, you'll typically head south and follow signs for the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, then look for directions to the Lava Cast Forest. It's a scenic drive through the Deschutes National Forest.
Yes, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument includes other areas like Lava Butte, Lava River Cave, and Newberry Caldera, offering diverse volcanic experiences. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Lava Cast Forest itself is free. However, you may need to pay a parking fee or have a valid recreation pass for the Newberry National Volcanic Monument area.
The Lava Cast Forest is generally accessible during daylight hours, but specific visitor center hours or seasonal closures for the monument should be checked.
While the forest itself is free to explore, there is often a parking fee per vehicle or a requirement for a valid recreation pass for the Newberry National Volcanic Monument.
Access may be limited during winter months due to snow. It's best to check current conditions, especially if visiting in spring or late fall.
Yes, the Lava Cast Forest is a key area within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the mile-long paved loop trail that showcases a unique lava field with numerous tree molds, formed when lava flowed around ancient trees.
No, the trail is considered easy. It's a paved loop, about a mile long, making it accessible for most visitors.
Yes, the paved pathway is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, making it a great accessible option.
You'll have marvelous vistas over the lava flows and the unique landscape shaped by volcanic activity.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the trailhead parking area.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique tree molds, the vast lava fields, and the dramatic volcanic landscape. The paved trail offers clear paths for framing your shots.
Absolutely. The stark beauty of the lava flows and the intricate details of the tree casts provide excellent subjects for landscape photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the lava field and tree molds.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Monuments and National Forests. Check the specific regulations for Newberry National Volcanic Monument before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lava fields, while a macro lens can highlight the details of the tree molds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited. The drive on the gravel road can be a bit bumpy, but it's manageable for most family vehicles. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid potential crowds and allow children to explore at their own pace.
🚶♀️ Accessible Travelers
While the road to the trailhead is gravel, it's generally passable for most vehicles. The well-maintained path ensures a comfortable and safe exploration of the lava casts and surrounding terrain.
🚗 Road Trippers
Combine your visit with other attractions in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, such as Lava Butte or Lava River Cave, to create a full day of volcanic exploration. Just be prepared for the gravel road access, which is part of the adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Newberry National Volcanic Monument
+1Beyond the Lava Cast Forest, consider visiting Lava Butte, a prominent cinder cone offering panoramic views and a visitor center with a fire lookout. For an underground adventure, the Lava River Cave is a mile-long lava tube that provides a cool escape and a glimpse into the earth's interior. The Newberry Caldera itself is a massive volcanic depression that holds two beautiful lakes, Paulina Lake and East Lake, perfect for recreation.
+1Whether you're interested in hiking, biking, boating, fishing, or simply marveling at geological formations, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument has something to offer. The diverse landscapes, from ancient lava fields to pristine mountain lakes, make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring central Oregon.
+1The Science Behind the Lava Casts
These casts are a unique geological phenomenon, preserving the shapes and sizes of the ancient trees. The paved trail at Lava Cast Forest allows visitors to walk among these formations, with informative plaques explaining the process and the types of trees that once stood there. It's a fascinating way to connect with the deep geological history of the region and understand the forces that shaped the Oregon landscape.
While the Lava Cast Forest is a prime example, similar volcanic features can be found in other lava tube systems, though the preservation and accessibility at this site are particularly noteworthy. It offers a tangible link to a fiery past, allowing visitors to visualize a forest transformed by volcanic fury.
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