Sun Lava Trail
Explore a unique lava flow landscape with scenic river trails and the stunning Benham Falls, perfect for hiking and biking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear trails, crisp air
Sun Lava Trail
Best Time
Clear trails, crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a unique lava flow landscape with scenic river trails and the stunning Benham Falls, perfect for hiking and biking.
"Beautiful scenery with snowy trees and meadows, the falls were beautiful too."
Snowshoe for Winter Hikes
If visiting in winter, snowshoes are highly recommended for deeper snow conditions to navigate the trail comfortably. :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Conditions
Trail conditions vary greatly. Snow and ice can add difficulty, so check forecasts before heading out. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Benham Falls
End of the longer trail route
Witness the stunning beauty of Benham Falls, especially captivating when framed by snow or icy conditions.
River Views
Along the paved section
Enjoy easy, paved paths offering beautiful, gentle rolling trails alongside the river.
Lava Butte Flow
Off-trail exploration
Discover the unique landscape of a trail winding through a fascinating lava butte flow.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Trail Length & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Does anybody know the story behind this crazy trail in the lava butte flow near DRW?
Snowshoe for Winter Hikes
If visiting in winter, snowshoes are highly recommended for deeper snow conditions to navigate the trail comfortably. :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Conditions
Trail conditions vary greatly. Snow and ice can add difficulty, so check forecasts before heading out. :cloud:
Wheelchair accessible nature trails?
Things to do end of April?
Limited Parking
The small parking area fills up quickly. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. :car:
No On-Site Restrooms
Plan ahead as the nearest restrooms are a 10-minute drive away in the village. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Snowshoe for Winter Hikes
If visiting in winter, snowshoes are highly recommended for deeper snow conditions to navigate the trail comfortably. :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Conditions
Trail conditions vary greatly. Snow and ice can add difficulty, so check forecasts before heading out. :cloud:
Limited Parking
The small parking area fills up quickly. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. :car:
No On-Site Restrooms
Plan ahead as the nearest restrooms are a 10-minute drive away in the village. :toilet:
Great for Mountain Biking
The gentle rolling trails along the river are perfect for a scenic mountain bike ride. :mountain_bicyclist:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Sun Lava Trail for its beautiful scenery, especially Benham Falls, and its accessibility via paved paths. While some enjoy the winter wonderland conditions, others note the trail can be challenging with snow and ice. The limited parking and lack of on-site restrooms are minor drawbacks for an otherwise enjoyable experience.
"Nice hike through the snow to Benham falls. We covered about seven miles round trip. It was snow and ice conditions but not too bad. It did add to the difficulty. We were just wearing standard hiking boots. The scenery was beautiful with snowy trees and meadows. The falls were beautiful too."
David Loper
"Was able to enjoy a brisk day with no snow on the trail in mid-December! Very well maintained and easy .75 mile walk to the river. Will definitely come back and continue to the falls when I have an earlier start, and maybe some snowshoes by then. Small, no-fee parking area. As far as I know, the closest restrooms are in the village about a 10 minutes drive away."
Riddle Routes
"A great trail, all paved, about 1.9 miles long.
When I went there was a lot of people using the trail."
Zargata Z
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sun Lava Trail is located near a lava butte flow. You can find it using coordinates like 43.9473161, -121.3917509 or by searching for 'Sun Lava Trail' on mapping apps.
Yes, there is a small, no-fee parking area. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is advised.
No, there are no restrooms directly at the trailhead. The closest facilities are about a 10-minute drive away in the nearby village.
Yes, the trail is accessible in winter, but conditions can include snow and ice. Snowshoes are recommended for deeper snow.
The closest town is about a 10-minute drive away, offering amenities like restrooms and services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Sun Lava Trail is generally free to access, and the parking area is also no-fee.
The trail is typically open year-round during daylight hours. Specific hours are not usually posted, but it's best to visit during safe daylight conditions.
There is no entrance fee for the Sun Lava Trail. Access to the trail and parking is free.
Yes, you can visit on holidays, but expect potentially larger crowds due to it being a popular recreational area.
The paved sections are easy and suitable for most ages. The longer routes to Benham Falls can be more challenging, especially in winter conditions.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trail features paved sections that are easy to navigate, as well as natural terrain that can be snowy, icy, or rocky depending on the season and specific path.
The paved section to the river is about 0.75 miles. The trail can extend to approximately seven miles round trip if you go all the way to Benham Falls.
Expect beautiful scenery including snowy trees and meadows in winter, and lovely river views along gentle rolling trails. The unique lava flow landscape is also a highlight.
Yes, it's a great hiking spot. The paved parts are easy, and the longer routes offer a moderate challenge, especially with varied weather conditions.
Absolutely! The gentle rolling trails along the river are very popular and beautiful for mountain biking.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the beauty of Benham Falls, especially with snow or ice. The unique lava flow landscape and serene river views also make for stunning photographs.
Yes, the diverse terrain, from lava fields to riverbanks and snowy meadows, offers excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography. Winter light can be particularly dramatic on the snowy landscapes.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in natural areas before flying.
A versatile lens for landscapes and potentially a telephoto lens for capturing details of the falls would be useful. Consider weather-sealed gear for winter visits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking a longer adventure, the hike to Benham Falls can be managed with older children, but be mindful of winter conditions like snow and ice, which can increase difficulty. Ensure everyone has appropriate footwear. Remember there are no restrooms on-site, so plan accordingly before you set off.
🚴 Mountain Bikers
While the paved sections are easy, the natural trails provide a bit more challenge and scenic variety. The proximity to the river and the natural landscape make it a popular choice for a leisurely or moderately paced bike ride.
❄️ Winter Adventurers
It's highly recommended to wear snowshoes for deeper snow, though standard hiking boots can work in lighter conditions. Be prepared for colder weather and potentially challenging terrain. The quiet beauty of the trail in winter is a significant draw for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Lava Butte Flow
While the main trail is well-defined, adventurous visitors might find opportunities for off-trail exploration (with caution and proper preparation) to truly appreciate the scale and texture of the lava fields. The visual contrast between the dark, porous lava rock and the surrounding vegetation, especially during different seasons, creates a dramatic and memorable scene.
Remember that lava rock can be sharp and unstable in places. Always stay on marked paths when possible and wear sturdy footwear to protect your feet and ankles. The unique geological features are a significant draw for visitors seeking a different kind of natural beauty.
Winter Wonderland: Benham Falls
Travelers recommend wearing appropriate footwear, with snowshoes being particularly useful for navigating deeper snow. The crisp winter air and the quiet solitude of the snow-covered landscape offer a peaceful escape. Even with standard hiking boots, the scenery is often described as beautiful and well worth the effort.
Be prepared for colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Checking the weather forecast and trail conditions is crucial before embarking on a winter hike to Benham Falls to ensure safety and enjoyment. The visual spectacle of the falls in a winter setting is a highlight for many visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit