Caves Trail — Attraction in Lost River

I will admit that while driving to this national monument, and then after arriving at the visitor center, I was a bit underwhelmed and second-guessing my choice to travel here... BUT I am so glad that we walked the caves trail. I absolutely loved it! Seeing the different layering and textures of the lava, and the caves, and the tunnel - it was such an awesome thing to see for a short walk. I will say that there were some people in one of the caves and in the tunnel that had a hard time making their way through and out of the caves, so if someone traveling with you is low-mobility, elderly, or a small child, I'd hesitate with bringing them on this trail. Otherwise, you really get a good bang for your buck at this trail.

Note: you must stop at the visitor center to get a FREE permit before going to this trail. When you get to the entrance, they will ask you for it and if you don't have it, they will send you back to the visitor center to get it. There was a person standing under a tent at the visitor center, so we didn't even have to go inside, to quickly get the permit. Entering this national monument costs $20 unless you have a park pass of some sort.

For this trail, there is absolutely no shade, unless you're in one of the caves/tunnel. The tunnel and caves have cool air, which is refreshing, but the walk outside of that is HOT with no shade. Make sure to wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and bring plenty of water. You will absolutely need it. I'd say bringing a flashlight and/or a headlamp was helpful for us walking through the caves, but it's not...

A must do when exploring Craters of the Moon National Park.

To complete this hike you need to be in good physical health. The hike on the path is flat and very easy. However, the hike down to the cavern and through the cavern is a challenge with steep steps and sharp rocks. Be careful. I would also recommend bringing a flashlight as it could be much darker than the daylight outside. It is also a nice oasis from the hot summer day as the cavern is...

Short 1.8 mile paved, out and back sunny hike with no shade. The lava formations are interesting to to view. The caves provide reprieve from the heat with some of nature's AC. The Indian tunnel in my opinion was more enjoyable than the other two. Good shoes or hiking boots a must. There's some decline over loose rocks to get...