Lava River Cave, Lava tube in Coconino National Forest, Arizona.
Lava River Cave is a lava tube in Coconino National Forest that runs approximately 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) beneath the ground. Inside, wide passages and tall ceilings reveal how flowing lava once carved through solid rock over thousands of years.
This underground passage formed roughly 700,000 years ago when molten lava erupted from a volcanic vent near Hart Prairie and carved a channel through the land. As the outer layer cooled and hardened, flowing lava inside continued moving, leaving behind the hollow tunnel seen today.
The cave serves as an educational site where students and researchers study geological processes and examine the formations created by volcanic activities.
Bring flashlights or headlamps since the tunnel is dark throughout, and wear sturdy closed-toe shoes for secure footing on uneven ground. Pack warm layers because the cave stays cold year-round, regardless of the season outside.
The cave interior contains distinctive rock formations, including lava stalactites that developed during the cooling process of molten rock flows.
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