Historic Route 66
Historic Route 66, Parks, Arizona
Lava River Cave: A Subterranean Wonder
Explore a 700,000-year-old lava tube near Flagstaff, Arizona, with year-round cool temperatures and unique geological features.
Descend into the depths of the Lava River Cave, a mile-long lava tube formed approximately 700,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption near Hart Prairie. Located just outside Flagstaff, Arizona, this unique geological feature offers a cool escape from the desert heat and a glimpse into the region's volcanic past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Lava River Cave
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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Getting There
Driving
From downtown Flagstaff, head north on US-180 for approximately 9 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 245 (FR-245). Continue for 3 miles, then turn left again onto Forest Road 171. Drive for 1 mile and turn left onto FR 171B, which leads to the Lava River Cave parking area. The final stretch on FR 171 and 171B is unpaved. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially in wet conditions. Parking is free at the trailhead parking lot. Note that FR 245 and FR 171 may be closed during winter.
Walking
From the parking area, the Lava River Cave entrance is a short, approximately 0.15 mile walk east along a well-marked trail. The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate. The entrance is marked by a circle of rocks and a sign. Be prepared to scramble down a steep, rocky slope to enter the cave.
Local tips
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Wear warm clothing, even in summer, as the cave temperature remains between 35° and 45°F.
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Bring at least two reliable light sources per person; headlamps are recommended for hands-free navigation.
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Wear sturdy hiking boots or closed-toe shoes with good traction due to the uneven and slippery cave floor.
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Check road conditions before visiting, especially during winter, as Forest Roads 245 and 171 may be closed.
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Be prepared to scramble over rocks and crouch in low areas; assess your physical abilities before entering.
Discover more about Lava River Cave
The Lava River Cave, also known as Lava Tube, presents a remarkable opportunity to explore an ancient underground corridor shaped by flowing molten rock. Created by a volcanic eruption from a vent near Hart Prairie, the cave's formation began when the outer layers of lava hardened, forming a tube while the molten center continued to flow. Once the eruption ceased, the remaining lava cooled, leaving behind a unique tunnel for exploration.Discovered in 1915 by lumber workers, the cave quickly became a local curiosity. Homesteaders even harvested ice from the cave's entrance for refrigeration in the early 20th century. Today, the Lava River Cave offers a fascinating journey through geological history.The cave's interior maintains a consistently cool temperature, ranging from 35° to 45° Fahrenheit year-round. Visitors should dress warmly and wear sturdy shoes for navigating the uneven and rocky terrain. It's also essential to bring multiple light sources, as the cave is completely dark. The cave floor exhibits ripple marks and splashdowns, providing evidence of the ancient lava flow.While the cave is open year-round, access may be limited during winter months due to road closures. Forest Roads 245 and 171 are often closed because of snow and muddy conditions, requiring a longer hike, ski, or snowshoe to reach the cave entrance.
A brief summary to Lava River Cave
Use Lava River Cave as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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