Northern California is a trove of natural treasures. There are forests, mountains, beaches, and more to explore, but did you know there is also an amazing volcanic cave in Lassen National Forest? Subway Cave is a short, 1/3 mile trail that takes you underground and through a lava tube. It’s one of the largest and most accessible caves of its kind in the world, and luckily for us it’s right here in Northern California.
Subway Cave is located within Lassen National Forest.
Sean Munson The entrance to the cave is located on Highway 89 approximately 1/4 mile north of the Highway 44/89 junction in Old Station.
Descend into the mouth of the cave if you dare!
Sean Munson The U.S. Forest Service has installed concrete stairs, a trail from the parking lot, and interpretive signs explaining the origins of the cave.
Pack a jacket and flashlight, and wear sturdy footwear.
Sean Munson It gets chilly in the cave and is pitch black once you round the corner away from the entrance.
Take one last look back behind you before you head into the cave’s depths.
Sean Munson Luckily for the claustrophobic, there is plenty of room overhead and this short walk is over quickly.
The lava tube is easy to explore and fun for all ages.
Jeff Moser Subway Cave was formed by flowing lava moving beneath the hardened surface of a lava flow.
Grab a map before you enter the cave and look for signs along the way. It’s impossible to get lost, but there are a few side chambers to check out.
becky berry Unlike other caves in the area that you might want to explore, you won’t need hard hats or other gear besides a flashlight down in Subway Cave.
Sooner than you’ll be ready for it, the cave’s exit will be visible and you’ll walk back out into the bright sunlight.
becky berry Congrats, you made it through the cave!
Here’s a really awesome video by Michael Berg, who filmed his experiences in Subway Cave.
Sean Munson
The entrance to the cave is located on Highway 89 approximately 1/4 mile north of the Highway 44/89 junction in Old Station.
The U.S. Forest Service has installed concrete stairs, a trail from the parking lot, and interpretive signs explaining the origins of the cave.
It gets chilly in the cave and is pitch black once you round the corner away from the entrance.
Luckily for the claustrophobic, there is plenty of room overhead and this short walk is over quickly.
Jeff Moser
Subway Cave was formed by flowing lava moving beneath the hardened surface of a lava flow.
becky berry
Unlike other caves in the area that you might want to explore, you won’t need hard hats or other gear besides a flashlight down in Subway Cave.
Congrats, you made it through the cave!
Would you explore Subway Cave? It’s time to plan your trip to Lassen National Park today!
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