It's probably the kid inside of me, but my ears perk up whenever I hear the word "cave". Add in the words "underground" and my thoughts go "oooooohhhhhh". Top it off with "flashlight" and it becomes an awesome adventure. We happened to be driving through the area on our way to the Grand Canyon from Page, AZ. My brother found this place on the web, and we decided to stop by and check it out. I recall driving through a bit of dirt road to get to the entrance, and the entrance point is pretty much in a semi isolated forest area. There's not much around other than the entrance to the cave. It's basically a mount of rocks that slowly descends to a hole underground. As soon as we got about 5 feet in, there was a drastic temperature change. It went from "summer heat" to "bring out the sweatshirt and jacket". You'll need flashlights to descend down the large rocks as it is pitch black down there. As you get further into the cave, the ability to walk gets a bit better as the rocks smooth out and there were patches where it seemed that rocks had melded together to form a smoother surface. At a few points, you will need to duck down or crouch down to your knees to make your way through. Watch out for wet spots or slippery ice spots. I actually wasn't expecting anyone there as I felt we were in the boonies (we're suburbians so anything related to nature feels like the boonies), but there were actually quite a number of people there. It wasn't packed, but I'm guessing there were about 20 to 30 people in the cave at the same time. Overall, there isn't much to do in a cave. However, it's just fun exploring something you don't see every day or just trying to make it to the end of the cave and back. It was also a good workout - it's not easy walking and having to maneuver yourself around large rocks. We had one person who lagged in our group, so it took 3 hours to get in/out. For a normal party, 2+ hours should be sufficient time to explore the cave. Tips: -Definitely go potty before you go in. You don't want to drop a deuce in a cave for everyone to smell. There isn't much ventilation. Once you get in, it's not a quick trip to get out. I also did not see any outhouses by the entrance. Bring toilet paper and a plastic bag. -Bring water and food or a snack. -Bring a sweater and/or jacket. -You definitely need a flashlight or headlamp. Best for one per person as you need to use it to see where you're going. -Comfortable walking shoes are key. -As hot as it is outside, I would recommend wearing pants. It's cold down there and wearing shorts could result in scrapes if you fall or graze a rock. -You better be in average to good shape and hopefully not a clutz. If you happen to slip and injure yourself, it isn't going to be easy to get you out. It would be easier to just bring you a lifetime's supply of food and leave you there. read more

It's like Hawaii all over again. The "lava" reminds me of volcano back home. It was an amazing adventure, but it was really rocky. It's important to be prepare with these things on the hike: - comfortable shoes that can walk on rocky area - bring a jacket because it gets real cold and wet inside - a really bright flashlight because it's really dark inside, can't see anything without it - a camera (make sure it's fully charged and your SD card is in the camera, I went without having my SD card, so dumb. missed out on these moments.) - bring water because you'll get thirsty from the hike - a first aid kit in case any injury might occur The next day, your thigh and leg will hurt. My roommate and I was having trouble walking too much after the hike. Our legs hurt a lot. Well, if you decide to go, GOOD LUCK and have fun! read more

Cool family outing. Finding the opening to the cave is really easy. Just follow the signs. The most narrow spot is the actual entrance but it opens up once you go further. The hike is about 1.5 miles. The entire hike was dark and you really had to be careful. Be sure you bring a headlight or flashlight and jacket read more

Lava River Cave - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Flagstaff, Arizona

The Lava River Cave is a destination. I highly recommend. Let me start out by saying that is not the easiest of hikes. Be prepared for the cool and dampness of the cave. The rocks are slippery whether they are wet or not. Wear good shoes or hiking boots. I have Asic's that are made for trails and even I slipped a few times. Aside from slipping the other thing I highly recommend is WATCH YOUR HEAD! The cave can go from 30' high to 4'. My wife and son hit their heads pretty hard. I almost did a few times. The biggest problem is a lot of time you are concentrating your light on where you are stepping and the ceiling lowers. The hike is 1.5 miles from point A to B and back to A. It took is over 40 minutes with a few water breaks. At the turnaround there is a rock pyramid that visitors have built. One thing I was baffled by was the number if cigarette butts at the turnaround. "Yeah, I just did a strenuous 3/4 of a mile subterranean hike over slippery lava rocks and I am ready for a Camel." Noticed 3 dogs being lead through cave. One had doggy boots to help with the jagged rocks. One little dog did not want want to go further and it's owner kept pulling him along. They ask that you do not bring dogs in the cave and I agree. There were quite a few people there today, but it never felt overly crowded. People were friendly and helpful with information. The biggest question from hikers as they pass is "How much further?" Overall, we loved the Lava River Hike and we will do it again. We did it on a day trip from Surprise. I recommend. Not for the weak and weary. read more

This is my favorite place to go in flagstaff! So neat to walk through where it's pitch black and parts that you have to crotch down a little and others that a train could fit through. It really is such a neat place everyone needs to check out. I would guess it's about a mile long. Boyfriend and I make it a thing to go at least once a year to get away and spend night in flagstaff going to lava river cave and lunch. Make sure to bring a jacket, because even mid summer it's cold down there, and of course a flashlight because it's your only source of light, we went to Walmart and got some cheap lights that you wrap around your head and worked perfect!!! read more

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This was a fun adventure. Come prepared, flashlight, hiking shoes and maybe a light jacket. It gets pretty cold in the cave. read more

Lava River Cave - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Flagstaff, Arizona

One of the best experiences I've ever had. We are a very outdoorsy family and we all loved it. I would not recommend taking children who are scared of the dark or just a young age in general. Be aware that it is very chilly inside the cave. I would take a light jacket or long sleeves and pants, of course some good hiking shoes. I had some nikes on and my feet still got banged up. We were there in mid July and i was still cold. read more

Lava River Cave - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Flagstaff, Arizona

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Badass!! This hike kicked ass today, I've never enjoyed a hike as great as this one. Very incredible to have hiked inside of it. I appreciated the lava river bed mostly. I would do it again in a heart beat. Other than bumping my head a few times on the rock, i would say everyone needs to do it. So get hiking, if you dare step into the darkness. read more

Lava River Cave - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Flagstaff, Arizona

TRUST ME!!! Bring a head lamp!! You do not want to hold a light in your hands. You need your hands to hold the rocks while walking. It is very cold inside, about 35°, dress appropriately! If you hike the full length it is very long, bring snacks and water. It's very cool and fun. Worth the drive! When you come to a fork in the park, the right side is a very low "ceiling" the left side is easy walking. Also, off the main road it's 7 miles of dirt rocky bumpy road be prepared for any car sick passengers. read more

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This is a one of a kind place, a must see if you visit the Grand Canyon Area. It's almost a mile long underground river bed of lava. It's self guided tours, very very dark obviously so bring lots of lights. Probably not the best for very small children, or dogs! Im glad I listened to another reviewer it can be dangerous for dogs to walk around on the lava rock. It's a very popular site. The first day we came there was a few school busses of children on a field trip. We camped nearby and waited until sunset only a small group coming out and one going in when we left. We were in the cave for almost two hours. It's beautiful inside, some garbage left around. If you enjoy visiting places like this respect them and keep them clean. Take what you bring please:) read more

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I loved this experience. The drive up and through the dirt path was fun exploring. I came with a group of 11 and each one of us would go again. So that says a lot. It's a great workout too, if you think your going go on a lovely stroll naw my legs were sore after. If I can share a heads up. Some parts you'll have to be comfortable kneeling down for a short period of time while walking through some part. Also awesome. Ceiling is uneven and bumpyyyy, one of the guys hit his head on a couple, but didn't bruise. No one wore a helmet. But some others out side the group were wearing helmets and gloves are useful to brings, and not cotton ones either. Haha but yeah also glow "snap" sticks (don't know what their called) were cool to have too. Something that glows in the dark ill bring next time, just a heads up. read more

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Such an awesome experience!! Definitely wear dark colored sneakers. It's slick and muddy inside. Bring a headlamp ... do not use your phone for light! It will die, plus you need both hands to crawl around. Very neat activity for nimble folks. Do not attempt if you have weak joints or can't climb. You will be ducking and crawling. Muscles will be sore that you didn't even know existed! read more

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This place is a lot of fun for a good long hike into an inactive volcano vent. Take your time and don't rush the trip as you travel down inside. If you do go, make sure to bring a good flashlight with some extra batteries just in case as you will definitely need it on the hike. Also be sure to bring a good jacket as the deeper you go inside the cooler it will become and of course some good drinking water as you will need with any hike. It's definately worth the adventure! read more

What a cool cave, really like how it is a do it yourself type of place, well worth the drive and price of admission ($0.00 and just a short drive from the highway). make sure to bring a flashlight and your sense of adventure. glad we made it to the cave. read more

Lava River Cave - Short walk thru the forest - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Flagstaff, Arizona

What an entrance! That ice flow was a huge contrast to the outside weather. Not as cold inside as expected, maybe 50 F, light jacket or vest. Must have good, strong head lights or flashlights. And be able to crouch here and there. Be very careful with your footing--so easy to twist the ankle--need close toed shoes. 0.75 miles one way. We four turned around after 0.5 miles--more of the same till the dead end. Very cool to walk in a lava tube. There were about 45-55 people in there when we were there. My girls loved it. Not sure why the National Park Service hasn't charged admission or installed some lighting... I like it natural like it is. What a treat! read more

Awesome pretty cool cave in flagstaff Arizona. The drive was like a movie in the blaire witch . So worth the hike if you,ve never been inside a cave. EASY walk from parking lot but hiking inside the cave their was alot of rocks so wear comfortable shoes dont be like me n wear sandals. But then again i made it out alive without injuring myself. read more

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Back in the middle of the woods North of Flagstaff, easy to find. The forest roads are often rough and washboard-like. Your car is likely to come out looking muddy. Follow the signs as you drive through Flagstaff as if you were taking Hwy 180 to the Grand Canyon, turn left on FR245, go to the end, turn left onto FR 171, and again the first left, at the sign for the tubes. Park and walk about 400' back to the entrance, which is basically a low pile of rocks on the ground. I estimated about 7 miles of driving on lumpy dirt roads. There is a small parking area near the entrance. You cannot see the tube entrance from the parking area, just keep walking into the woods away from the road, look for the worn path that starts at the far end of the parking lot, (to the east) Okay, the basics: it's cold and wet inside, in fact, it's cold after just a few steps below ground level. You will be climbing down huge boulders to about 60 feet below ground level, and again up as you exit. The entrance is the smallest areas to pass through. Because you cannot see the actual size of the opening until you are within a few feet of it, the next opening always looks tiny, but are large enough for multiple people to climb in and out at the same time. There are two entrance narrows that appear to be small until you are within a few feet of them. You will be standing up during the entire tube walk. Since the floor is mostly rocky, and sometimes covered with huge wet slippery boulders, unless you stop walking, you are mostly looking down for where to step next. This lessens the awareness of how small the tube can get in places (in other places the inside of the tube is similar in size to a subway tunnel under any large city). If you are not physically fit enough to climb a 50 foot ladder you should probably not take this challenge. I estimated the tube averages 20 feet across, rounded ceilings, and a ceiling height from 5'5" to 20+ feet tall. Steps at the entrance can range from a vertical six inches to 2-3 feet depending on where you chose to go. There are no wear markings showing where the previous 3000 people walked. Note: there are no improvements whatsoever. No path, no stairs, no railings, no signs, no water, no lights, no phones, thin cold humid air, no rescue, no backups, no first aid station, no toilet. You are totally on your own, totally responsible for every step you take. It is totally dark. There is no ambient light. I brought a 3-LED Petzl headlamp which was a total fail, totally insufficient light for safe navigation of the tube. I also brought a 2-watt white LED flashlight which was minimal. Problem with a hand held light is you need your hands at times to steady yourself while climbing over boulders, and carrying a flashlight can be a problem. I would recommend bringing one headband flashlight and two small bright LED flashlights for each person. I would recommend a 4-D cell MagLight for this trip and an LED unit on the head. We saw lots of small children with parents. A good idea was to fasten a light stick to their clothes, not for illumination but to help keep track of them. For some reason, sound does not carry well in the tubes so bringing small kids requires a much higher level of attention. There is nowhere inside the tubes where the floor is flat. It is a rocky beach walk at best and a pile of huge wet slippery boulders at worst. There were no critters in the tubes while we were there. This place would be VERY dangerous for dogs with significant injury almost guaranteed. I would recommend only going in groups, bring 2 flashlights for each person, light sticks for all children, camera with hefty flash, forget video, it's totally too dark even with flashlights. Wear gym shoes and clothes you wouldn't mind getting a little muddy. Even for moderately claustrophobic people this place will probably be okay. The openings only look small from a distance but when you are actually right at an entrance you can see there is really plenty of space around you. Like in Flagstaff, due to the altitude, the air is thin, also true inside the lava tubes, so plan to stop and rest and catch your breath from time to time. Temps in the tubes will be in the 40's. And if you bring expensive electronics, they will be exposed to high humidity and dripping water. During the summer there is such a huge difference in the outside vs. inside weather, it makes many people comment about it. When you first begin climbing down the rocks to the entrance you walk about 20-30 feet where there is still open Arizona sky above you. But just a few steps down and you step into an invisible cold layer you first notice on your legs and feet, then up to your waist, then it swallows you up whole. All this while still able to look straight up and see the sky and trees. I wouldn't want to be in this place if there was an earthquake. Otherwise it is totally cool. Everybody I watched walked out with a big smile on their face. read more

The Lava River Cave is a short 1.5 mile hike, but is quite possibly one of the most exciting, spooky, challenging hikes I've ever been on! As you approach the cave, you can feel the temperatures drop. It's about 40 degrees inside the cave so I would plan to layer. I saw some folks go in with flip-flops, but I definitely recommend wearing sneakers or hiking boots. It's slippery in the cave and lava rocks are pretty sharp. We saw some folks with dogs on leashes, but I wouldn't take my dogs on this hike. My family wore headlamps, which freed our hands for balance and hold. It is PITCH BLACK inside the cave, and as the tour books and online posts recommend, I would recommend bringing a back up flashlight in the event your primary light was to fail. I was a little freaked out approaching the hole in the ground which breathed cold air in my face and was pitch black as far as I strained my eyes. But we started our scramble, and it helped that there were others coming in and out of the cave. Although, frequently on the hike, we were alone in the silence and our own headlamp glow. My husband is 6ft 4 inches and there were a couple of spots where he had to squat his way through the cave. We all relished in the "flat" areas (no rocks), which are relatively few. I was so cold and nervous, I was sweating (if that makes any sense). And often I had to stop because my breath was getting in the way of me being able to see the rocks ahead. But man-oh-man, this was one of the most unique hiking experiences we've ever had, and we've hiked some beauties - Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion! I'm so glad, we did this and I've promised all our friends from back East to take them on this "short" hike (outside Winter time)! Do it! You won't regret it. read more

Cool spot to beat the heat! It's about 30-40 degrees down here so wear something warm. It is a cave so it will be pitch black so a headlamp is a good idea if you don't want to carry a flashlight. Good footwear is important unless you like twisting ankles or falling down. For the sake of goodness go to the bathroom before you go down since you can imagine the stench if you drop a deuce in a cave with little air flow at all! Even pee stinks like crazy down there. Other than that it is a super short hike from the parking area and close to Flagstaff so stop in and check it out! read more

The Lava River Cave has been described by everyone efficiently so far who has reviewed this. With that being said, I wanted to throw my two cents in. My family decided to go check out this cave (we had three kids in tow - two 3 year olds and a baby [in a carrier, of course] - we also had three dogs who are extremely active and used to hiking 10 miles +), if you do have youngish children (even in carriers) or you have dogs, I would definitely advise not taking them. The entrance into the cave is always 40 degrees and it ices over. It's definitely not something I would feel comfortable taking the dogs or taking young children who can't keep their balance on their own. Half our group had to turn around after going down into the cave because it wasn't suitable for them. With that being said, bring a flashlight (a head lamp is best) and wear sneakers. Parts of the hike can be bumpy and uneven, it's important to wear stable shoes. For the people who did the hike into the cave, they thought it was an awesome experience and would give it ***** :) read more

Really cool but full of tourists with screaming kids. Totally ruined the experience for me, and my friend visiting from out of state. For tourists- please find the gumption somehow to tell your kids to stop screaming. You need to bring a coat, a headlamp, and wear proper shoes. Young children may not be able to do this activity. Be respectful please. read more

2 days later, I'm still walking funny. This was a weird kinda adventure: 1.5 mile hike into lava tubes underground. PITCH black, so bring MORE than 1 highbeam flashlight. (Head lamp better, because you need your arms/hand to balance & hold onto walls & ceiling). Getting into the initial entrance is a bit claustophobic and daunting, especially if there are several others trying to go in and out. This is VERY rocky, slippery in many spots, and there are several areas with very low clearance: at 2 points you have to almost crawl! Kids will luv this adventure. I'm still not quite sure what to think! No matter that it was middle of summer, quite cold inside: about 40 degrees, so bring layers, and wear jeans (if you fall, which 1 in our party did, the floor is full of sharp lava rocks), and sturdy footwear. All-in-all it was defainately something differnent to do and off the beaten path! Speaking of which, follow directions carefully from web, the 'pathways' to get to the cave include about 10 miles of rough forest roads. (if you have an SUV no prob). read more

Interesting...that what I've been hearing all of these years about the lava tubes in Flagstaff. Well I finally made it a point to come up to do them. Had to pick a super hot day down in Phx for it to so it would be refreshing up north too! After a nice well maintained forest road in the mud (4wd) was used not needed but lots of fun on! I was in heaven driving on the roads, kicking up mud on my truck and having the windows open. That's the best part of the hike, getting here! Look up google maps and plan your route. I took a Forrest road right off the 40 access road and drive it up north until the turn off. Took that FR road back toward 180 and toured around snow bowl after. Finding the opening to the cave is really easy. Just follow the signs. The most narrow spot is the actual entrance but it opens up once you go further. The hike goes down 1.5 miles I to the abyss. I say that because that what it feels like. Very dark and cold. I spent most of my time watching my footing so much that I almost hit my head a few times because I wasn't paying attention. The entire hike was dark and you really had to be careful. We were also lucky to do this on a Monday with just a group of 3. Try turning off all lights and being silent for a while. Man it can be creapy So dark you will. It see your hand. Anyways we didn't compete the entire hike. That's rare for me being such an avid hiker. The scenery was pretty much the same as soon as you enter till the end so I didn't see the point of risking cracking my head I. A low hanging rock. I still had fun, but next time I'll just go a little bit down and play with my lighting an using my camera to capture some good shots. read more

The reviewers are spot on. Wear a warm jacket good footwear and plenty of light. Preferably more than one light source. It can get slippery at times. So watch your footing. Enjoy read more

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If you have never gone under a cave, this will scare you. But this can be a once in a lifetime experience. I have gone through some caves around, but this is the best of all. There will be no strike of light and the rocks are solid. Watch your step carefully. I was here with my friends and can never forget that experience read more

Very cool place, you can drive to in a car. Remember to take a small jacket, good shoes and some flashlights. Its a little difficult at the entrance but don't be shy, my 3 year old daughter made it all the way through with my guidance. Cool place for sure. read more

Cool spot. FREE! It was neat to go down and hike thru the dark cave/tunnel. It's dark and chilly so bring flashlights and a jacket. Terrain is rocky at times but it's a fairly easy hike. Definitely wear good shoes. When we went in it was thundering and apparently rained hard while we were down in the cave but we never heard a thing. No bathrooms in the Forrest service parking area so make sure you stop before you get out there. This was pretty amazing and an adventure that everyone should try at least once. read more

Lava River Cave - The mouth of the cave, beyond this you have a 1 mile hike thru the lava riverbed in complete darkness. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Flagstaff, Arizona

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Worth the Effort We visited in January, 2018 before the area had any snow, so the roads were open. Also, we went first thing in the morning and did not run into any other humans until we had returned to the entrance. Yes, it's ultimately just a long underground tube, but it is a really cool experience to see how the lava created this underground tube. Tip #1: bring more light than a cell phone. We had headlights (a must!), strong flashlights (very helpful!), and a lantern (not necessary, but useful for lighting the immediate area). Tip #2: there are some low spots, so a helmet would be a good idea. Tip #3: take it slow going in and coming out. The rocks near the entrance are tricky, and they can be quite slippery. Tip #4: if you take your time, it should take 1.5-2.0 hours to go all the way to the end and return. read more

Bring headlamps. In summer it is ok to have T-shirt and sweater. Wear jeans and good shoes. Great cave but watch low areas. read more

Really cool experience! Make sure your quads are in great shape for this. Fun for everyone in the family, including kids.

I have been here a few times and it is always an interesting trip and I see things I have missed the other times. I would not recommend bringing small children as there are some big boulders to climb up down, slippery rocks from water dripping, unstable rocks to climb on. It is best to bring a headlamp as sometimes you need both hands free. I would also bring a spare flashlight in case something goes wrong with your headlamp. If you're at the end of the cave, which is measured from 3/4 to 1 mile depending on where you get your information. This cave is opened all year as long as the roads are open. Depending on road condition of the rod will depend on if you can drive a car to it. Dogs are not recommended due to the boulders climbing through the cave. Bring water and a jacket as the temperature in the cave is quite lower than outside. I would also recommend wearing hiking shoes/boots for better traction on the rocks. read more

Such a great, accessible experience! Bring a headlamp! The route splits two ways, take the left route on the way in for comfortable head clearance; the right route is a really fun squeeze that you have to crouch through. Check out the hole at the end of the cave where people have rappelled down further, but don't go too far in that small enclosure without knowing what you're doing! Enjoy! read more

If you're searching of a way to escape the Arizona heat, and who isn't these days just head North of Phoenix to the Lava River Cave located in the gorgeous city of Flagstaff! While most ladies are dreaming of shopping malls, children of indoor gaming and men of watching sports in their man caves, I'm sitting at my desk dreaming of climbing in a dark cave with nothing more than a flashlight and a comfy pair of yoga pants! (just don't tell my boss I'm supposed to be working) The cave is a cool 40ish degrees, so a light sweater will do, trust me somehow you still manage to work up a sweat! No need to worry you don't have to be an avid hiker it's not Camelback mountain nor do you have to be Fred Flintstone to play in this cave it's an obtainable adventure for the entire family! Use a bit of caution climbing into the entrance, it's a bit of a squeeze with a low ceiling and slippery when wet, trust me I got a boulder shaped bruise on my clumsy arse to prove it! Once in it's a wide open space, and an amazing place to be, who doesn't love playing in the dark?! So bring a bright flashlight, durable shoes and a great sense of adventure! #ILoveAZ read more

Absolutely amazing! Make sure you have a jacket, two light sources (headlamp and flashlight) and good shoes. The first 100 m down are the hardest with some tighter spaces down in the tunnel but really worth it! It is slick at times so I recommend hiking shoes! read more

Very cool stroll through the cave, definitely bring a sweater, a beanie, flashlights that are strong! And watch your head!

Very cool place. Just expect it to be about 40 degrees. It was chilly. Very hard to get through the first section, big rocks and some that may not be very sturdy. We hiked with a 2 year old in a hiking backpack. Better than carrying her or letting her walk but just be prepared to do some squatting and crawling through the tighter areas but can be done. When you come to the y in cave take the left if you have kids. Easier not as tight and confined. Overall cool hike read more

Great place to go for a hike and rock clime all in one location I don't recommend this place if you are claustrophobic and head lights are a must read more

We loved this hike. Actually we love the drive there even more. We missed the first right turn off the freeway and took the second right turn and boy was that an adventure in itself. My little 4 banger sedan barely made it through the wet muddy terrain. I recommend bringing your date or love ones to this hike. Oh and use head lamps rather than flashlights to free up your hands so you can brace yourself in case you do fall as some of the rocks are slippery. read more

Maybe this will be the first review from an extremely out of shape person so here goes! I'm no hiker, but I agreed to come along on this hike because I was told by others that it was doable. All it was was basically spooky because you're underground they said. ha ha yeah.... So here are my thoughts. If you have flat feet, no matter how much you weigh or how good your hiking shoes are, your feet are going to hate you. The flattest parts of the cave feel like you're walking on coral that is broken up, trying to grab your shoes and twist your ankles. The worst parts are the boulders that you have to scuttle over like a spider monkey. You're at 8000 elevation- the air will be thin. I would suggest wearing jeans because it gets to be in the 30's in there, and in case you fall, maybe the jeans will protect your skin. I fell twice. The second time I was lucky enough to fall on a craggy piece of rock. It was awesome. Good thing my nethers were cold so I couldn't feel much anyway. Felt pretty violated though. My boyfriend and I actually made it all the way through. Its lonely, cold, silent, and creepy. If you're feeling oxygen-deprived, it can be a bit of a challenge to keep your anxiety level low. Just have to keep telling yourself there are thousands of other crazy people that go back and forth in this cave every year, and hopefully most of them survive. If they didn't, whomever had to drag them out I really feel sorry for, because there's no way to do it really. If you get a panic attack, or you hurt yourself, or have a heart attack, or get dizzy and faint, you are ON YOUR OWN, bro. If you have only one other person with you, they would have to get help somehow and would have to leave you in that cave, surrounded by silence and darkness. For this reason I recommend going in at least groups of 3. Hope you have back up flashlights and batteries. Maybe holy water. Take a picture with your camera phone or digital camera of the map at the entrance, so you can recognize the fork in the path. Just remember: going in, stay to the left. Going out, stay to the right. I recommend doing it in the morning, while other people will be in there also. They wouldn't be able to drag you out but at least they could tell someone what happened to you on their way out. Its good camraderie to say hello to each other. Everyone is pretty nice, you know, being all stuck underground. I'm guessing that if there was a zombie outbreak, this cave might be a good place to hide in. Some reason, it make my stomach upset. That was probably the worst part of it, to be honest. Nothing to do but sit down and wait for your stomach to calm down, then get up and keep going. If any of you reading this go up there and start to have a panic attack, just remember: there is only one way in and one way out so you can't get lost. Take it one step at a time, and you will get through it. You will be so happy to see the entrance again, and you will be proud of yourself for getting through it. If you have to, stop at every large stone that you can sit on and rest for a bit. Bring a jacket, and a bottle of water, or better yet, Gatorade. I give this place 5 stars because its a pretty epic and spooky hike. Its ridiculous, and we are all ridiculous that go through the whole thing. But it makes for a good story. Its been two days and my legs feel like I'm still trying to balance on rocks. Do not bring very young children, and don't bring pets. Better yet, if you are in any doubt, stay home and watch The Goonies. read more

We enjoyed our trip into the cave but I had read a lot about hiking in to it before we went so we were well prepared. We each had a headlight which was perfect because it kept our hands free to steady ourselves. We also each had an extra flashlight in case one of our headlights failed. A couple of us took light jackets with us as the temperature inside the cave is so much cooler. It actually felt a bit warmer because you're moving, climbing over rocks and walking, plus there is no wind. The terrain is very rough the first fifty feet or so. You are absolutely climbing down big boulders. When you reach the bottom, it doesn't really smooth out like I had read from other articles. The floor of the cave is strewn with loose, jagged, sharp rocks and boulders and some water puddles from where it seeps through. There is some spots that are quite slippery. We saw a couple people bring their dogs down with them. I have no idea why someone would make their dogs walk on those sharp rocks. I felt the edges through my running shoes and can't imagine how awful they must feel on their paws. We also saw a few people using their cell phones for light because they didn't bring flashlights. If you come prepared then you will enjoy your trip into the cave! The water droplets on the roof of the cave reflects the light from your flashlights and looks like melted silver. It's quite pretty! read more

Lava River Cave - Inside the lava tube. Light reflecting off water droplets - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Flagstaff, Arizona

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