• Lava Cast Forest was established as a geological special interest area
• Hot molten lava engulfed the ancient trees and created solid tree molds
Located a few miles south of Lava River Cave, Lava Cast Forest is part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which was established in 1942 as a geological special interest area.
This fantastic forest was created by the volcanic activity of the Newberry Volcano, with the most recent eruption dated 7,000 years ago. Hot molten lava from the volcano engulfed ancient trees, forming solid tree molds. The lava covered the trees and burned them up completely. Steam from the burning wood cooled the lava, leaving hollow channels or molds. Roots of the ancient trees still exist under the lava flow.
The most widely known example of such a phenomenon would be the Italian city of Pompeii. The sudden eruption of Mount Vesuvius caught townsfolk by surprise.
Many of the citizens of Pompeii, as well as pets and livestock, died there they were. Bodies of humans and animals were covered by lava, and their remains burned to leave the mold of the body behind. Italian archaeologists developed a technique of making casts of the bodies and items by pouring cement into the hollows.
Over time, new trees slowly grew up on the lava terrain, which appeared to be lifeless. Adapting to the harsh environment, many trees have spiral forms that help distribute water and nutrients. This contrast of young twisted forests and bright flowers against blackish lava rocks and tree molds might make you feel you are somewhere in a mystic alien place.
Lava Cast Forest Interpretive Trail is a one-mile loop self-guided trail. Walk from the parking area to observe and explore the unique volcanic forest. This area is open to visitors from early May until late September. A toilet and picnic tables are available on-site for visitors' convenience.
Be advised that Forest Service Road 9720, which takes you to the Lava Cast Forest, is a rarely maintained gravel road. You should drive approximately 10 miles to see this fantastic area on this road.
Note. Casts are formed when molds are filled with some materials. Technically, Lava Cast Forest is instead tree molds rather than casts.
Lava Cast Forest Camping and Lodging
No camping is allowed at the Lava Cast Forest, but excellent accommodations, including hotels and vacation rentals, can be found just 10 miles west in Sunriver. Additional options are available in La Pine or Bend, both approximately 24 miles away.
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Lava Cast Forest | Facts
Open: May 1st - September 30th
Managed by: US Forest Service
Amenities: Interpretive trail, picnic areas, and vault toilet
Activities: Hiking and exploring
Day-use fees: Yes or Recreation Pass
Dogs: Must be on a leash
Restrictions: Horses & mountain bikes are prohibited on the trail; dogs must be on leashes
Elevation: 5,700 ft (1,737 m)
Lava Cast Forest is located:
- 24 miles south of Bend
- 134 miles east of Eugene
- 199 miles southeast of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Lava Cast Forest
From Bend,
- Follow about 15 miles south on Highway US-97 to exit 153
- Take exit 153 toward Sunriver and then turn left onto Lava Cast Forest (Forest Road 9720)
- Drive 9 miles on a gravel Lava Cast Forest Road to the destination.
Phone: 541-383-4000