Labyrinth Cave

Labyrinth Cave is a remarkable lava tube situated within the Lava Beds National Monument in California. The monument is located in the northeastern part of the state, near the Oregon border. The area is home to hundreds of volcanic caves formed by the Medicine Lake Volcano.

Labyrinth Cave is famous for its intricate maze of interconnected tunnels, making it one of the most complex lava tube systems in the United States. Its multi-level structure and unusual formations offer a genuine caving experience, requiring visitors to crawl and navigate tight squeezes. It is easy to get disoriented inside, hence its name.

Yes, unlike the paved, lighted caves, exploring Labyrinth Cave requires a good deal of preparation. Visitors must bring at least one reliable flashlight per person (preferably two), a helmet, and sturdy boots with good traction. Knee and elbow pads are also highly recommended due to the rough lava rock and crawling involved.

Yes, Lava Beds National Monument is home to several species of bats, and they frequently use the dark, cool caves for roosting. While exploring Labyrinth Cave, you might encounter them, but visitors are warned not to shine lights on them or disturb them. The park actively works to protect the bat populations from white-nose syndrome.