Lava River Cave
Lava River Cave, one of the state’s most unusual natural wonders, is situated in central Oregon, just outside the city of Bend. This mile-long lava tube is a favorite location for explorers of all ages, providing an insight into the geological history of the region as well as an exciting underground experience.
Around 80,000 years ago, the cave was formed as lava from the neighboring Newberry Volcano poured through the area and began to settle on the top while the molten rock underneath continued to flow. As the lava flowed away, it left a network of tunnels and passages, forming the cave we see today.
Leander Dillman, a local gold prospector, discovered the entrance to the cave in 1889 as he was seeking for gold. Since then, the cave has attracted numerous hikers, spelunkers, and environment enthusiasts.
Visitors to Lava River Cave can expect to experience a landscape of lava formations, stalactites, and stalagmites that is out of this world. The cave maintains a consistent temperature of 42 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year; therefore, thick clothing and sturdy footwear are required. Also, visitors are urged to carry a flashlight or headlamp, as the interior of the cave is completely dark.
The cave entrance is easily accessible by car and is located within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Visitors can park at the neighboring Lava Lands Visitor Center and walk a short distance to the entrance of the cave. There is a little ticket to enter the cave, but the experience is well worth the expense.
Once inside the cave, the main chamber is reached via a steep staircase. In some areas, the cave’s ceiling can rise up to 50 feet, and its floor is uneven and strewn with jagged rocks, therefore caution is urged. Also, there are numerous tight corridors and low ceilings, so visitors should be prepared to crawl or stoop in certain sections.
The main chamber of the cave is awe-inspiring, with its towering lava formations and the sound of water pouring throughout the cavern. There are also a number of secondary rooms to explore, each with their own distinct characteristics. The “Mushroom Room” is one of the most intriguing due to its peculiar mushroom-shaped formations.
The peculiar geology of the cave provides a look into the region’s volcanic past. Lava from the Newberry Volcano, one of the greatest volcanoes in the United States, produced the cave. The caldera, or collapsed crater, of the volcano, which has not erupted for more than 1,300 years, is visible from various places of central Oregon. The Newberry National Volcanic Monument provides a variety of information about the region’s volcanic history, including displays on the region’s geology and the influence of volcanic activity on the local ecosystem.
Despite the fact that Lava River Cave is a popular site for visitors and residents alike, it is essential to remember that its ecosystem is endangered. Because contacting the cave’s walls or formations can cause permanent harm, visitors are requested to stay on designated trails and avoid touching them. Also, it is essential to respect the cave’s residents, such as bats and other species, by not harming them or their habitats.
Lava River Cave is a must-see attraction for all visitors to central Oregon. It is a memorable experience for tourists of all ages due to its unique geological features and underground adventure. Lava River Cave is certain to impress nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike.