Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Oregon: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a hidden gem in the Deschutes National Forest. It was officially designated in 1990. This place offers volcanic landscapes, breathtaking views, and endless exploration opportunities. But what makes it so special? Let's explore the top things to do and discover its true essence.

Key Takeaways

• Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a diverse and captivating destination in Central Oregon, featuring three main areas: Lava Lands, Lava Cast, and Newberry Caldera.
• Explore the Lava Lands area, home to the Lava Lands Visitor Center, Lava Butte, and the Lava River Cave - the longest lava tube in Oregon.
• Discover the Lava Cast Forest, where you can marvel at tree molds created by molten lava over 6,000 years ago.
• Venture to the Newberry Caldera and witness the stunning Paulina Peak, Paulina Lake, and East Lake - all within this volcanic crater.
• Hike to the Big Obsidian Flow and Paulina Falls, two of the monument's most iconic natural wonders.

Introduction to Newberry National Volcanic Monument

In central Oregon's Deschutes National Forest, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument stands out. It covers 50,000 acres and includes the Newberry Caldera, the biggest volcano in the Cascade Range. This place is full of volcanic wonders, making it a must-see for anyone interested in geology.

Overview of the Monument

Created in 1990, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument protects its volcanic treasures. It has cinder cones, lava flows, and two crater lakes. Even astronauts trained here for the moon landing, showing how unique it is.

Unique Volcanic Landscapes

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is famous for its varied landscapes. You can see Lava Butte in Lava Lands and the Lava Cast Forest in Lava Cast. It's a place where you can see many different volcanic features.

Three Main Areas: Lava Lands, Lava Cast, and Newberry Caldera

The monument is split into three areas, each with its own wonders. Lava Lands is near Bend and has the Lava Lands Visitor Center and Lava Butte. Lava Cast shows off a forest trapped in lava. The biggest area is the Newberry Caldera, with the Paulina Visitor Center and Paulina Peak.

"The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a true gem, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a one-of-a-kind volcanic landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet."

Exploring the Lava Lands Area

The Lava Lands Visitor Center is a great place to start your journey in Newberry National Volcanic Monument. It offers lots of info on the area's geology and history. You can learn about hiking trails, the Lava Butte shuttle, and more.

Lava Butte and Shuttle Experience

Visiting Lava Butte is a must. It's a 500-foot cinder cone that stands out. You can take the Lava Butte shuttle for $2 or drive up with a permit.

Lava River Cave

The Lava River Cave is another top spot. It's a 1-mile lava tube that's cool to explore. Just remember to bring two light sources and be ready for the cold.

Hiking Trails in Lava Lands

The Lava Lands area has many trails to discover. The Trail of the Molten Land is easy and informative. The Whispering Pines Trail is short but lovely. For a longer hike, try the Sun-Lava Path to Sunriver Resort.

Discovering the Lava Cast Area

The Lava Cast area is a special part of Newberry National Volcanic Monument. It shows the volcanic history of the region. Even though it's the smallest area, it's a must-see for its natural beauty.

Lava Cast Forest Trail

The Lava Cast Forest Trail is a key attraction. It's a 0.9-mile loop that takes you through a forest preserved in lava. About 7,000 years ago, lava from Newberry Volcano covered the area, saving the trees.

As you walk this paved trail, you'll see signs that tell the story of the area's volcanic past. It's wheelchair-friendly, making it accessible to everyone.

Hoffman Island Trail

The Hoffman Island Trail is another gem in the Lava Cast area. It's an easy 0.8-mile round trip. The trail offers breathtaking views of an island surrounded by lava.

While it's not as well-known as the Lava Cast Forest Trail, it's a peaceful spot. It provides a unique view of the area's volcanic history.

Visiting the Lava Cast Forest Trail or the Hoffman Island Trail is a great way to explore Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The Lava Cast area is a treasure trove of geological wonders.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Oregon: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument has a big section called the Newberry Caldera. It's near La Pine, Oregon. The Paulina Visitor Center is there, giving out info and resources for visitors.

Paulina Visitor Center

The Paulina Visitor Center is a key spot for those exploring the Newberry Caldera and the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. You can get maps, guides, and info on activities and attractions here.

Paulina Peak and Panoramic Views

Paulina Peak is a must-see in the Newberry Caldera. It's 7,984 feet high and gives you amazing views of the Newberry Volcano area. You can drive up a dirt road to the peak and see the Cascade Range and two crater lakes.

Exploring Paulina Lake and East Lake

The Newberry Caldera has two beautiful lakes, Paulina Lake and East Lake. They were made by volcanic activity. Paulina Lake is deeper, almost 250 feet. You can swim, kayak, or paddleboard in these lakes during the warmer months.

"The Newberry Caldera is a truly unique and captivating volcanic landscape, offering a wealth of outdoor adventures and stunning natural beauty."

Hiking Adventures at Newberry

Newberry National Volcanic Monument has many hiking trails. These trails let visitors see the area's amazing volcanic landscapes. The Big Obsidian Flow Trail and the Paulina Falls Trail are two favorites.

Big Obsidian Flow Trail

The Big Obsidian Flow Trail is a 1-mile loop. It goes through Oregon's youngest lava flow, about 1,300 years old. The trail has a 500-foot elevation gain and offers stunning views of obsidian.

Paulina Falls Trail

The Paulina Falls Trail is a 0.25-mile easy hike. It leads to an 80-foot twin waterfall. It's great for families and those who want a short, easy hike with a beautiful reward.

"The Paulina Falls Trail is a must-do for any visitor to Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The 80-foot waterfall is simply stunning, and the hike is perfect for all skill levels."

Newberry National Volcanic Monument has hikes for everyone. Whether you want a tough trail with great views or a short, easy path to a waterfall, there's something here for you.

Water Activities at Newberry

Newberry National Volcanic Monument is home to Paulina and East Lakes. These lakes are perfect for cooling off during the summer. They were formed by a volcanic eruption 75,000 years ago.

Swimming in Paulina Lake and East Lake

Paulina Lake and East Lake have spots for swimming. They offer a chance to enjoy the beautiful volcanic scenery. The water is clear, making these lakes a hit for swimmers looking to beat the heat.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Paulina Lake and East Lake are also great for kayaking and paddleboarding. You can rent gear from local outfitters. The lakes have a 10-mph speed limit, ensuring a calm and fun time for everyone.

Looking for a cool swim or a calm paddle? Newberry's crater lakes offer a unique and memorable experience. Dive into the stunning volcanic scenery and enjoy the peacefulness of these natural gems.

Camping and Picnicking at Newberry

Newberry National Volcanic Monument in Oregon is a paradise for outdoor lovers. It offers camping and picnic spots amidst stunning volcanic landscapes. Whether you're looking for a camping trip or a day picnic, there's something for everyone.

Campgrounds Within the Monument

Inside Newberry National Volcanic Monument, you'll find many campgrounds. Cinder Hill, East Lake, Little Crater, and Paulina Lake are some of the best. They have amenities like water, toilets, and reservable sites.

• Cinder Hill Campground: 68 campsites
• East Lake Campground: 44 spacious campsites
• Little Crater Campground: 15 smaller but private camping sites
• Paulina Lake Campground: 68 campsites

Picnic Areas and Day-Use Sites

Newberry also has great picnic spots and day-use areas. Places like Paulina Lake Day Use Area and Lava Lands Visitor Center are perfect for a meal. They offer picnic tables and trails to explore.

Whether you're camping or picnicking, Newberry National Volcanic Monument has it all. With its many campgrounds and picnic spots, you can dive into the monument's volcanic wonders.

Educational Opportunities at Newberry

Newberry National Volcanic Monument, managed by the United States Forest Service, offers educational experiences for all ages. The Junior Ranger program is a highlight, engaging kids aged 7 to 12 in fun learning. It teaches about the monument's unique features and geology.

At the Lava Lands Visitor Center or the Paulina Visitor Center, kids can get a Junior Ranger booklet. They complete activities and tasks to earn a badge. This approach lets kids explore the monument's landscapes, wildlife, and history. It also teaches them to care for the natural world.

Interpretive Displays and Ranger-Led Programs

Visitors can find many interpretive displays and signs at Newberry National Volcanic Monument. These share information on the area's volcanic history, geology, and natural features. They explain how the Newberry Volcano formed, its lava flows, and the diverse ecosystem.

Newberry also hosts ranger-led programs and talks. These sessions let visitors learn from park staff. They share stories and details about the volcanic wonderland. Whether it's a hike, geology talk, or wildlife observation, these experiences deepen understanding and appreciation.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument offers many educational activities and resources. From the Junior Ranger program to ranger-led programs, there's much to explore and learn. It's a place where visitors can connect with nature and discover its wonders.

Planning Your Visit to Newberry

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a stunning natural wonder in Central Oregon. It offers visitors a chance to dive into the region's rich volcanic history. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, there are a few key things to consider.

Best Time to Visit

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is open all year. But the best time to visit is from late June to September. During this time, the weather is warm, and all the attractions and activities are available.

Fees and Passes

Visitors to Newberry National Volcanic Monument must pay a fee or use a valid pass. A day-use pass costs $5 per vehicle. The America the Beautiful annual pass, which is accepted at all national parks and monuments, costs $80 per year. These fees and passes cover entry to all of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument sites.

Directions and Access

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is in Central Oregon. The main access points are:

• Lava Lands Visitor Center, about 12 miles south of Bend, Oregon, via Highway 97
• Lava Cast Forest, about 20 miles east of Sunriver, Oregon, via Highway 97 and North Paulina Road
• Newberry Caldera, about 16 miles east of La Pine, Oregon, via Finley Butte Road

Whether you're visiting for a day or longer, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument has a lot to offer. With the right preparation, you can make the most of your visit and create lasting memories in this stunning volcanic landscape.

Conclusion

Newberry National Volcanic Monument in Central Oregon is a unique spot for exploring. It offers a chance to see volcanic landscapes and enjoy outdoor adventures. The Lava Lands and Lava Cast areas show the area's geological history. The Newberry Caldera is vast, inviting visitors to explore.

Whether you love geology, outdoor activities, or just want to see nature, this place is great. You can hike, swim in lakes, camp, and learn about volcanoes. Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a top spot for anyone wanting to see Oregon's wonders.

When you visit Newberry National Volcanic Monument, you'll connect with its geological past and natural beauty. You'll see volcanic landscapes and have outdoor adventures. It's a chance to make memories in Central Oregon.