Lava Tube

Lava Tube

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    Trailhead: The lava tube is located about 5 miles east of Kelbaker Road on the unpaved Aiken Mine Road. This road has a small street sign marking the intersection of Kelbaker Road and Aiken Mine Road. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Low-clearance vehicles are not advised.

    Akien Mine Road is a narrow, rough, sandy, washboard road with occasional larger rocks. You will need at least 30 minutes or more to reach the Lava Tube. There are no bathrooms, no pit toilets, and no trash cans. Please pack everything out.

    From the signed junction of Kelbaker & Aiken Mine Roads: Follow Aiken Mine Road, passing an old water tank and corral after 1.6 miles. At about 4.5 miles, bear left at a fork in the road. Continue another 1/4 miles, past a horse corral to the left, to where the road widens into a circular parking area. From the parking area, walk uphill about 300 yards to a fence. Turn right then follow a beaten path to the metal ladder that descends into the lava tub. Watch for snakes and the low ceiling in the tube. Bring a light source.

    The lava tube is not regularly maintained by the National Park Service. The lava tube has loose rocks and at times a very low ceiling that requires crawling. Enter at your own risk!

     
    Black and white map showing the lava tube trail.
    Lava Tube Trail Map

    NPS

     
    Sunset on the lava tube trail. Trail signs mark the junction to begin the final uphill hike to the lava tube. Lava and creosotes line the uphill trail.
    The Lava Tube Trail junction with the jeep trail.

    David Williams, NPS.

     
    Lava Tube Entrance. Metal stairs lead underground. Lava and creosote surround the stairs.
    Lava Tube Entrance

    David Williams, NPS.

    Last updated: January 3, 2024

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