The Easy Hike In Northern California That's Unlike Any Other In The World
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Jill S.
Author
Northern California is a trove of natural treasures. There are forests, mountains, beaches, and more to explore, but did you know there is also an amazing volcanic cave in Lassen National Forest? Subway Cave is a short, 1/3 mile trail that takes you underground and through a lava tube. It’s one of the largest and most accessible caves of its kind in the world, and luckily for us it’s right here in Northern California.
The entrance to the cave is located on Highway 89 approximately 1/4 mile north of the Highway 44/89 junction in Old Station.
The U.S. Forest Service has installed concrete stairs, a trail from the parking lot, and interpretive signs explaining the origins of the cave.
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It gets chilly in the cave and is pitch black once you round the corner away from the entrance.
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Luckily for the claustrophobic, there is plenty of room overhead and this short walk is over quickly.
Subway Cave was formed by flowing lava moving beneath the hardened surface of a lava flow.
Unlike other caves in the area that you might want to explore, you won't need hard hats or other gear besides a flashlight down in Subway Cave.
Congrats, you made it through the cave!
Here’s a really awesome video by Michael Berg, who filmed his experiences in Subway Cave.
Would you explore Subway Cave? It’s time to plan your trip to Lassen National Park today!
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