Seven miles south of beautiful Bend, Oregon, off Highway 97, you'll find large signs proclaiming Newbery Volcanic National Monument. No wonder you've heard so much about the natural beauty of Central Oregon. Vastly different landscapes populate this gorgeous region. Don't miss the lakes, campgrounds and rushing Deschutes River, among the lava lands.
Instructions
1. Stop by Lava Lands and the nearby Lava Lands Visitor Center for an easy to moderate hike behind the center that is slightly uphill. Experience the volcanic wonder of black jagged rocks, and the canyons and gutters formed by the lava pouring down 6000 years ago. Chipmunks dart between the boulders, and yellow flowers spring up amid the lunar landscape. Ask about the more difficult hike to the overhanging Lava Butte. You can even bring a dog on a leash.
2. Follow the signs to Deschutes Falls, one mile away. You'll find three adjacent trails: one for mountain biking, one for hiking and one for horseback riding along the Deschutes River. The rapids and scenery can take your breath away, but hold hands with little ones; don't expect guardrails or fences near the river's shore.
3. Drive one mile away to the fantastic Lava River Cave where you can truly explore the inside of the earth. Expect to rent a lantern and walk 2.2 miles in the 40 degree darkness, about one hour or more. This lava tube is considered Oregon's longest, the more astounding for never having collapsed. It was formed by a molten river.
4. Motor three more miles south to the Petrified Cast Forest to meander through a one mile hike that features the molten forms of trees petrified when the lava doused them more than 6000 years ago. This site never closes, but has no lights, so be careful after dark.
5. Finish up at the actual Newbery Crater, another dozen or so miles south. There you'll turn left to find a small interpretive center, then two crater lakes, Paulina Lake and East Lake, complete with cabins and campgrounds. These lovely lakes are considered local gems and remain popular for fishing and boating. Each small resort features a little restaurant and store.
6. Stop at the Obsidian Flow, marked by a sign. Here you can explore yet another lava landscape featuring the shinier black obsidian rock used by native peoples for arrowheads. This is a fascinating, moderately steep climb. Enjoy the magnificent vistas of Paulina Lake and distant pine forests from the top.
Tags: miles south, 6000 years, Deschutes River, Lava Lands, mile away, National Monument
