Lava River Cave

One more place to enjoy near Flagstaff in Arizona

Lava River Cave

Around 700,000 years in the past, a volcanic vent near Hart Prairie caused the creation of Lava River Cave, stretching for about a mile. Nowadays, individuals have the opportunity to venture into this extensive and dark cave by heading to Coconino National Forest. Keep in mind that while the cave remains open throughout the year, wintertime may lead to road closures, making it temporarily unreachable. To fully enjoy the experience, visitors should come prepared with extra light sources, warm clothing layers, and sturdy footwear. Even during the summer season, Lava River Cave tends to be cold and slippery.

Visitors who recently explored a tube cave were amazed by the experience. While some faced challenges reaching the cave due to road conditions, it is recommended to check the area’s operating status on the website before heading out during winter. However, all visitors agreed that the hike was worth it. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is important to bring a hands-free light source like a headlamp.