Lava Butte Vicinity, Oregon

Mars doesn’t have anything on this place. Lave Butte, which is just south of Bend, Oregon, is a massive 500 foot high cinder cone that formed around 7,000 years ago. Be sure to take the time to walk the trail that has been provided. Once at the top, you get a spectacular view of the rocky volcanic landscape that is spread out in front of you. You’ll feel like you’re on another planet.

From there visit the Lava Cast Forest. You’ll have to take a nine-mile dirt road to reach the one-mile, self guided “living museum of volcanic landscapes,” but it’s worth the effort.

It was a little on the warm side on the day we visited the Lava River Cave - a welcome respite. The cave is a constant 42 degrees and it was weird seeing our breath in the middle of August! You can rent lanterns if you don’t bring a flashlight, but you will need your driver’s license and a deposit.