Subway Cave, Lassen National Forest CA

• 5-star hike
• ½ mile loop
• Easy | Gain 50 feet
• Old Station, CA | Lassen Region
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The image shows the entrance to a cave with a person standing inside, holding a light source. The cave entrance is illuminated by natural light coming from outside, highlighting a set of stairs leading up to the surface. The stairs are surrounded by rocks and moss, creating a rugged and natural environment.

The image shows the entrance to a cave with a person standing inside, holding a light source. The cave entrance is illuminated by natural light coming from outside, highlighting a set of stairs leading up to the surface. The stairs are surrounded by rocks and moss, creating a rugged and natural environment.

Twenty thousand years ago, just 15 miles north of Lassen Volcanic National Park, the ground broke apart as volcanic rock poured forth to create the vast Hat Creek Lava Flow. As the top layer cooled and solidified, molten rock continued flowing beneath, forming lava tubes that carried the hot rock miles from its source.

Subway Cave represents a preserved section of these ancient lava tubes, spanning less than a third of a mile between two ceiling collapse points. Well-constructed concrete steps at both entrances provide easy access for visitors of various abilities. Those not wanting to complete the full loop can still enjoy the experience by entering and turning around at any point.

For the best experience, each person should bring a flashlight or headlamp. Visitors who forget their lighting equipment may be able to rent devices from the information center at Old Station, located just south of the cave. While smartphone flashlights can work in a pinch, they're not ideal for cave exploration — the uneven floor creates tripping hazards that could end up with you sending your device flying through the air. Bringing a jacket is also recommended, as the cave maintains cool temperatures regardless of outside weather conditions.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 5★ Subway Cave Loop 0.5 mi loop, easy, gain 50 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking ! Bring a flashlight

The cave floor consists of solidified lava, creating an uneven surface with occasional loose rocks. Walking through requires some attention to footing, but the path is generally manageable for most visitors. Inside, informational signs explain various geological features, including "lava shelves" that mark different flow levels and ripples frozen in stone from the ancient molten river.

Subway Cave is accessible only between May and October, as winter conditions make the site inaccessible during the colder months. The cave offers a fascinating glimpse into the volcanic history of the region and makes for an educational stop when exploring the greater Lassen area. This short but fascinating geological feature provides visitors with a rare opportunity to literally walk through ancient volcanic history, offering a cool retreat on hot summer days and an accessible adventure for families and geology enthusiasts alike.

The image shows a descending concrete staircase with metal railings leading into a cave entrance. The cave entrance is surrounded by rocky terrain and vegetation. The staircase has multiple landings and turns, and the metal railings appear weathered. The cave entrance is dark, and the surrounding rocks have a rugged texture.

The image shows a descending concrete staircase with metal railings leading into a cave entrance. The cave entrance is surrounded by rocky terrain and vegetation. The staircase has multiple landings and turns, and the metal railings appear weathered. The cave entrance is dark, and the surrounding rocks have a rugged texture.

Steps down into the lava tube.

Tangents:
• Official: Forest Service
• AllTrails Public: Subway Cave
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

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