Lava River Cave, Lava tube in Coconino National Forest, Arizona.
The Lava River Cave extends three-quarters of a mile underground, featuring high ceilings and wide chambers formed by ancient volcanic activity.
The formation of this underground passage occurred approximately 700,000 years ago when molten lava flowed from a volcanic vent near Hart Prairie.
The cave serves as an educational site where students and researchers study geological processes and examine the formations created by volcanic activities.
Visitors need multiple light sources, closed-toe shoes, and warm clothing as the cave maintains temperatures between 35 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
The cave interior contains distinctive rock formations, including lava stalactites that developed during the cooling process of molten rock flows.
Location: Arizona
GPS coordinates: 35.34230,-111.83600
Latest update: March 4, 2025 23:26
This guide presents Arizona's geological formations, desert landscapes and historical sites. The locations include sandstone rocks, Spanish missions, cave systems, petrified forests and archaeological sites. The natural areas display the geology of the American Southwest with canyons, cactus forests and volcanic formations.
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