Skull Cave: A Chilling Journey into Lava Beds' Depths
Discover the icy depths of Skull Cave in Lava Beds National Monument, a fascinating and accessible lava tube with a chilling history.
Explore Skull Cave in Lava Beds National Monument, a 580-foot lava tube named for the animal bones and human skeletons found within. Descend into this easily accessible cave to experience its year-round ice floor and learn about the monument's volcanic past.
A brief summary to Skull Cave
- Skull Cave Rd, Tulelake, California, 96134, US
- +1530-667-8113
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear warm clothing, as the cave maintains a chilly temperature of around 55°F (13°C) year-round.
- Bring a flashlight with extra batteries, or borrow one from the visitor center.
- Obtain a free caving permit from the visitor center before entering any caves.
- Check with a ranger for current cave closures, especially during bat breeding or hibernation seasons.
Getting There
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Driving
From the Lava Beds National Monument Visitor Center, drive north on the main park road for approximately 2.4 miles. Skull Cave Road will be on your right, with clear signage. Follow Skull Cave Road to the parking area near the cave entrance. Park entrance fee of $25 per vehicle is required to enter Lava Beds National Monument. This fee is good for 7 days.
Discover more about Skull Cave
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