Highlight • Trail
Trail of the Molten Land
Hiking
4.6
(12)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Deschutes National Forest
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October 8, 2022
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April 2, 2024
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August 23, 2018
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Trail of the Molten Land
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
3.59km
01:04
150m
20m
Embark on an easy hike around the rim of a cinder cone with the Lava Butte Rim Trail. This 2.2-mile (3.6 km) route involves a gentle climb of 476 feet (145 metres) and takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. As you walk, you will gain 360-degree views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. Look down into the impressive 150-foot deep crater of Lava Butte itself. To the west, the majestic peaks of the Cascade Mountains, including North Sister, Middle Sister, and Mount Bachelor, dominate the horizon.
Planning your visit to Lava Butte requires some awareness, especially during busy times. Vehicle access to the summit is often regulated in peak season, sometimes needing a shuttle or timed passes to manage visitor numbers. Dogs are welcome on the trail and the road leading up to the butte. If you wish to extend your hiking adventure, you can start your journey from the Lava Lands Visitor Center, adding to the overall distance and elevation gain.
This trail offers a unique chance to explore a cinder cone within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Informational signs placed along the route explain the geology and history of this fascinating area. You will learn about the formation of the butte and the wider volcanic landscape. It is a great way to experience a significant geological feature with minimal effort.
11.4km
03:05
230m
10m
Embark on the Sun-Lava Trail for a moderate hike through a unique volcanic landscape. This 7.1-mile (11.4 km) route, with 759 feet (231 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete. You will wander through a beautiful ponderosa pine forest, encountering striking views of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and features like the Lava Butte Cinder Cone.
This multi-use path is paved, offering a generally level experience with some rolling inclines and declines. Plan your visit knowing that e-bikes are typically prohibited on this trail, as it is located on U.S. Forest Service lands. Always check local regulations before heading out to ensure a smooth trip.
The Sun-Lava Trail provides an excellent opportunity to explore Oregon's rich volcanic history. As you hike, you can also enjoy scenic views of the Deschutes River and access Benham Falls, adding a picturesque water element to the dramatic volcanic scenery. It's a notable route for understanding the region's geological past.
4.6
(7)
97
hikers
Step onto the Trail of the Molten Land – Phil Brogan Viewpoint loop and immerse yourself in a dramatic, ancient volcanic landscape. This easy 1.3-mile (2.0 km) hike guides you across a 7,000-year-old basalt lava flow, offering striking views of the Lava Butte cinder cone and the vast, dark rock formations. The paved path leads to the Phil Brogan Viewpoint, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Cascade Mountains, including North Sister, Middle Sister, and Mount Bachelor, making it a high-payoff adventure for minimal effort.
Plan for about 33 minutes of walking time, though you'll want to linger to read the interpretive signs and soak in the scenery. The trailhead is located behind the Lava Lands Visitor Center, and while the trail is paved and generally accessible, some sections can be undulating. Remember to bring sun protection and water, as there's no shade, and a National Forest Fee or Northwest Forest Pass is required for entry.
This route is perfect for families, beginners, or anyone seeking a unique geological experience without a strenuous climb, with only 99 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain. It's a fantastic way to explore the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and witness how life adapts to such a harsh environment, offering a tangible connection to Oregon's fiery past.
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Elevation 1,370 m
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