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. ☁️
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 43 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Address
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?
https://maps.app.goo.gl/v9WfRbZtpf2YMrTQ8?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy I found this cool-looking trail through the lava flow (43.9473161, -121.3917509) while looking at satellite imagery on google maps years ago. I went out there with a friend and explored this wild trail…
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. ☁️
Wheelchair accessible nature trails?
My mother mentioned today that she would like to go to the woods. We would have to park the vehicle and push her on a paved trail. I've never thought about doing this before so I'm wondering if anyone has had any experience taking their elderly parents into nature locally. Any…
Things to do end of April?
Hey all, I’ve been to Bend a couple times during the summer months, but never during the spring. My boyfriend and I (we are both 29) are taking a road trip from Seattle April 26-29 and I’m looking for recommendations for things to do! What kind of weather should we expect? We…
Limited Parking
The small parking area fills up quickly. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. 🚗
No On-Site Restrooms
Plan ahead as the nearest restrooms are a 10-minute drive away in the village. 🚽
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. ☁️
Limited Parking
The small parking area fills up quickly. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. 🚗
No On-Site Restrooms
Plan ahead as the nearest restrooms are a 10-minute drive away in the village. 🚽
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit