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Lava River Cave

Mile Long Lava Tube

Lava Tube on Lava River Cave Interpretive Trail in Coconino NF near Parks, AZ

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Sensitive Place

Lava Tubes are sensitive in nature and deserve the utmost respect. Please help preserve the area for future generations.

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On Official Website

This mile-long lava tube cave was formed roughly 700,000 years ago by molten rock that erupted from a volcanic vent in nearby Hart Prairie. The top, sides and bottom of the flow cooled and solidified first, after which the insides of the lava river continued to flow emptying out the present cave. Ample evidence of how the tube was born is written in the rocks of which it is formed. Small wave-like undulations in the floor are the remains of ripples frozen in the last trickle of molten rock that flowed from the cave. Stone icicles hanging from the ceiling show where a final blast of volcanic heat caused the rock to partially re-liquefy and drip.

Classified As

Lava Tube

Lava River Cave