Lava Cast Forest #3960
A one mile loop through a lava cast forest in Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

Trail Name: Lava Cast Forest #3960
Access: Trail
Distance: 0.98 miles (round trip)
Elevation Range: 5709' to 5788'
Ascent/Descent: +66 ft/-68 ft
Trail Type: Loop
Outing Type: Day hike
Permits/Fees: NW Forest pass or equivalent pass required for parking.
Notes: The trail has interpretive signs along it and is paved.
Location: Near FS 9720-950 in Newberry National Volcanic Monument in Deschutes National Forest, Oregon, U.S.A.
Administration: Deschutes National Forest
Ranger District: Bend/Fort Rock Ranger District
Area: Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Date Accessed: October 4, 2024

It was windy out, and there was a tree across the road while we were driving to the trailhead. It was a light enough tree I was able to snap the top off and the drag it to the side of the road.Â

There was only one other vehicle at the trailhead parking area when we got there. But we didn’t see anyone else on our hike. We did the loop clockwise. The trail was paved and had interpretive signs along the way with cool facts about the surrounding terrain. It passed through a lava field that had tree casts, which is where when 7000 years ago lava was flowing and surrounded the trees in this area, the trees cooled the lava and were set within it. The trees then rotted away leaving casts. Which are cool holes in the ground that are visible along the trail (source - interpretive signs).

There was some elevation gain and loss on the second half of the loop. One of my favorite things to see, besides the casts, was the trees with twisted bark which happens due to how dry the climate and earth is. There was also some small trees, for those that know me I have quite the affinity for small/tiny things. So of course I had to get my picture taken next to it.

Overall this was an easy and relatively short hike. The trail looped back to the parking lot. We saw two other cars arrive as we were leaving.

Map
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