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Lava River Cave is a must-visit tourist attraction and hiking area located at 171B Forest Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001. As one of the most popular attractions in the area, Lava River Cave offers a unique and adventurous experience for nature enthusiasts and explorers of all ages. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as you venture into the depths of this magnificent cave. The cave's natural beauty and geological formations are a sight to behold. As you navigate through the lava tube, you'll marvel at the dramatic stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over centuries. Lava River Cave is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and exploring natural wonders. The cave offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience for those looking to test their physical fitness and endurance. The rugged terrain and scenic surroundings make it a perfect destination for adventure seekers. With its convenient location in Flagstaff, AZ, Lava River Cave is easily accessible for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time explorer, this attraction promises an unforgettable adventure. Discover the magic of Lava River Cave and embark on a journey through time and nature. Please note that due to the preservation efforts, visitors are required to follow certain guidelines and restrictions to ensure the conservation of this unique geological wonder. Plan your visit today and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lava River Cave.

Lava River Cave Review Summary

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Luna H. (The Moonlit Nook Blog)
Luna H. (The Moonlit Nook Blog) -Google user
a week ago
What a neat spot to visit if you are looking for a fun outdoor adventure! It was a big plus that there is a small dirt parking lot along with an actual bathroom at the trail head since there is no entrance fee I figured...Read More
ModerateOut-and-BackLess than 1 hrHiking, Walking
Stanley Strycharz
Stanley Strycharz -Google user
4 months ago
This is a super fascinating piece of geologic history. The lava tube is under a picturesque pine forest and is entered by a small collapse near the surface. Just the aroma of the pine forest is worth the ride in on the dirt forest roads....Read More
Karl Boettcher
Karl Boettcher -Google user
2 months ago
100% worth the visiting! The drive down the dirt road was easy in my Honda Civic. Bring an extra light in case your main light goes out or stops working. Dirt parking lot with pit toilets. Easy walk to the lava tube entrance. It’s about 3/4 mile...Read More
EasyOut-and-Back1-2 hrHikingPlenty of parkingFree parking lotPit toilets at the trailhead
DemonKing Ryuki
DemonKing Ryuki -Google user
3 weeks ago
Went here 5 times already, and I haven't been let down yet. It is an amazingly beautiful trek, so long as you bring a light! My kids also had a fun time here, but make sure to bring enough water for everyone.
ModerateOut-and-Back1-2 hrHiking, WalkingPlenty of parkingFree parking lotThere is adequate parking, but i would avoid this place on high vacation holiday weeks as it can be quite busy, possibly filling up parking, and making the ascent out more difficult to navigate.NoneThere is adequate basic bathroom here with two sides. It seems to be well maintained any time I have seen it.I wouldn't bring a dog here, while they can utilize the nearby forest path, the cave itself is not going to be easily navigable with an animal.
Analisa Harvey
Analisa Harvey -Google user
a month ago
Amazing hiking/exploring experience. We went all the way to the end and it took us about 2 hours. (Thats because Im short and slow) NEEDED: lights (head lamps on Amazon for $10) Hiking boots or shoes (its slippery and rocky) A light jacket and maybe gloves (its cold in...Read More
ModerateOut-and-Back1-2 hrHiking, Walking
Diane Sloan
Diane Sloan -Google user
a month ago
After having coffee with a fellow nomad in the beautiful Coconino National Forest I decided to go down the road a bit and check out the Lava River Cave. So glad I did! Thoroughly impressed, People!!! It's a 3/4 mile lava tube going I think...Read More
ModerateOut-and-Back2-3 hrHiking, WalkingPlenty of parkingFree parking lotFreeYesNo
Brenda Q
Brenda Q -Google user
5 months ago
It’s an interesting hike that suppose to have an exit at the end of the cave but seems blocked. So have to make a turn when reached the end. If there is snow. Best to wear a cramp ons for safety. A headlights is highly...Read More
ModerateLoop1-2 hrHiking, Walking
Malik
Malik -Google user
3 months ago
This is great for those who like adventure but not for the faint at heart. The tunnel is cold and dark. You need to be in good shape and have the appropriate gear. Gear includes long clothes and sweat shirt, it gets as cold as...Read More
HardPoint-to-Point2-3 hrHikingPlenty of parkingFree parking lot
Amanda Schnitker
Amanda Schnitker -Google user
a month ago
It is wonderful and amazing to be able to explore this cave all on your own. No guide, no path, no lights. It is a rare find to have this sort of adventure! Just remember to bring your own light....preferably a headlamp.
MKP
MKP -Google user
5 months ago
Very cool experience. But make sure you wear good shoes and bring a light source. It took us a little over an hour and a half to do the whole thing. Thr entrance had some ice for the first 100 feet or...Read More
ModerateOut-and-Back1-2 hrHiking
Amoung Us
Amoung Us -Google user
a month ago
Really fun, but don’t go right on the intersection in the cave unless you want to crawl. We went right then somehow came from the left side??? Just go left to avoid crawling, especially if claustrophobic.
ModerateOut-and-Back1-2 hrHikingPlenty of parkingFree parking lotNoneDirtyDon’t bring pets
David De La Torre
David De La Torre -Google user
2 months ago
Great experience with my family. I started out wearing a sweater because it was chilly at first. Ended up taking it off halfway through because I was sweating. Watch out for your head. I bumped my head a couple of times.
Adam Boal
Adam Boal -Google user
Edited 7 months ago
So you have to keep it real from a preparedness perspective to enjoy this place. It is dark, it is wet and there are sharp bits and hard bits all about. It is mostly pretty open but as you go on there are...Read More
ModerateOut-and-Back1-2 hr
Elini Vilardi
Elini Vilardi -Google user
2 months ago
About 2 miles total. It starts off steep, with big rocks, then levels out and opens up so you can stand up straight. The floor still has big rocks, but it smooths out and then gets rough with knobby rocks....Read More
ModerateOut-and-Back1-2 hrHiking, WalkingPlenty of parkingFree parking lotThere are restrooms at the trailheadDon't bring pets
Meg H
Meg H -Google user
7 months ago
Access: US180 is 4.5 miles of dirt road with MANY potholes. Honestly not bad though, just have to go super slow. We made it in a camper in the snow and was sliding around on ice so don’t recommend that. Car would be fine. It...Read More
ModerateOut-and-Back
Tavo M
Tavo M -Google user
4 weeks ago
Rough hike getting in and out and at some spots in the cave but it was fun to explore. My 7yr old and 12yr handled it no problem. Bring a jacket and a powerful flashlight.
Moderate2-3 hrHiking
William Courtright
William Courtright -Google user
2 months ago
Beautiful hike. It is a little dangerous. The rocks and descent can be a little scary. Ensure that people in your party have a headlamp or flashlight. It's nice and cool. I just work a T-shirt and shorts, other people were...Read More
ModerateOut-and-Back1-2 hrHikingPlenty of parkingNoneYesNoNo,
Botanical Brother
Botanical Brother -Google user
2 months ago
Super cool and unique experience. It can get down to about 40 degrees even in the summer so bundle up. Wear shoes with adequate grip because there is very little flat terrain. The rocks are sharp and very uneven. We spent about 2 hours down...Read More
ModerateOut-and-Back1-2 hrHiking
Stacy Hall
Stacy Hall -Google user
3 months ago
It took us about 1hr 45 min to reach the end of the cave and back. It was a neat experience and well worth it. You must have a head lamp, and I recommend an extra light source just in case as it is truly...Read More
HardOut-and-Back1-2 hrHiking
claudia roper
claudia roper -Google user
a week ago
Wonderful experience—man, am I sore! The area around Lava River Cave is beautiful. If you like finding last-minute spots, this is a great one, but make sure you’re prepared. There are recommendations posted on signs by the trail and entrance—please follow them! Bring a bright...Read More
ModerateOut-and-Back2-3 hrHikingPlenty of parkingFree parking lotVault Toilets by the parking lot of trail

Features

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance

Activities

check icon Hiking

Amenities

check icon Picnic tables
check icon Public restroom

Children

check icon Good for kids
check icon Kid-friendly hikes