The Trail of Molten Land - a paved interpretive path leading out from the Lava Lands Visitor Center - affords panoramic views of the Cascades. When Lava Butte erupted nearly 7,000 years ago, the lava flowed in three main channels, creating a barren landscape contrasting with the evergreen trees. The paved trail takes you through this volcanic area to the Phil Brogan viewpoint. We passed hikers of all ages (you can even push a stroller on the path).

You can drive or hike to the top of Lava Butte - about 3 miles round trip with limited parking at the top. It's a short climb from the parking lot to the lookout tower where there are up-close-and-personal views from Hood to Bachelor through a telescope (you can even count the chair lifts on Mt. Bachelor).

Lava River Cave is 1 mile south of the Lava Lands Visitor Center. It runs a mile long and there is a bench that marks the spot where Hwy 97 passes over the cave. At this point, the ceiling is 31 feet high with a 50-foot thick roof.

You can rent kerosene lanterns at the US Forest Service kiosk, or bring your own flashlights. We learned the hard way that each explorer should have his/her own flashlight. I was bravely on the front line, forging our way through the darkness, and Gary was gallantly shining the light to guide my footsteps when his shins crashed into a metal stair step.

The smarter folks that had rented kerosene lanterns helped light our way from time to time.

Elevation: The base of Lava Butte is 4,507 feet, with an elevation gain of 509 feet. The Lava River Cave is a 200-foot elevation loss.

Trail distance: The Trail of Molten Land is a 1-mile round trip loop. The road to the top of Lava Butte is 3 miles round trip. The Lava River Cave is 1 mile in length with no outlet on the far end.

Rated: Trail of Molten Land - easy; Lava River Cave - easy; Lava Butte - easy if you drive, more of a work-out if you hike. :)

Latitude: 43.91611

Longitude: 121.33528

Directions: From Bend, travel 13 miles south on Hwy 97. Turn right at the sign to Lava Lands Visitor Center. To reach the entrance to the Lava River Cave, head back out to Hwy 97 and turn right (south); watch for the signs to the cave about a mile down on your left.  

Fees: NW Forest Pass or $5 entry fee allows you into the visitor center, as well as the cave.