THE MOJAVE LAVA TUBELocation: Mojave National Preserve, CA
Accessibility: Difficult Drive Created: 7.6 Million Years Ago |
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One of the more tumultuous forces of nature, volcanoes are revered for being destructive forces. Erupting, thick, scalding lava tends to destroy everything in its path. On the flip slide, volcanoes can also be constructive forces. These powerful pores on the Earth have left behind unique formations.
Located on a seemingly desolate road called Aiken Mine Road - halfway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas - lies numerous lava tubes. The Mojave National preserve has an expansive history of volcanic activity and has left behind sites to behold and areas to explore. The formation of the Mojave Lava Tube occurred approximately 7.6 million years ago. The lava tube formed when molten basaltic lava spread like melted butter over the landscape. Although the top layer of lava eventually cooled, lava continued flowing beneath, carving out tunnels. Now, a hollow tube has been left in its wake.
Hikers eager to explore are tasked with driving down a rather bumpy road to reach the parking area, but once the jolting is complete, a quarter-mile hike is all that is required to explore the caves leading to the tubes. Ample viewing time is between 11 am to 1 pm as the sun partners with the lava tube during this window of time to create a flowing alien spaceship-like beam of light for one to marvel at.
Resembling something from another planet, the Mojave lava tubes provide numerous photograph opportunities, as well as an experience to enjoy sans cameras. Check out our newest episode where we spend the day exploring the natural phenomena that is the Mojave Lava Tube.
Located on a seemingly desolate road called Aiken Mine Road - halfway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas - lies numerous lava tubes. The Mojave National preserve has an expansive history of volcanic activity and has left behind sites to behold and areas to explore. The formation of the Mojave Lava Tube occurred approximately 7.6 million years ago. The lava tube formed when molten basaltic lava spread like melted butter over the landscape. Although the top layer of lava eventually cooled, lava continued flowing beneath, carving out tunnels. Now, a hollow tube has been left in its wake.
Hikers eager to explore are tasked with driving down a rather bumpy road to reach the parking area, but once the jolting is complete, a quarter-mile hike is all that is required to explore the caves leading to the tubes. Ample viewing time is between 11 am to 1 pm as the sun partners with the lava tube during this window of time to create a flowing alien spaceship-like beam of light for one to marvel at.
Resembling something from another planet, the Mojave lava tubes provide numerous photograph opportunities, as well as an experience to enjoy sans cameras. Check out our newest episode where we spend the day exploring the natural phenomena that is the Mojave Lava Tube.