SUBWAY CAVE LAVA TUBES: A COOL UNDERGROUND ESCAPE
Looking for a unique way to beat the heat this summer? Just an hour’s drive from Redding lies a subterranean wonder that’ll give you chills – literally.
While Redding basks in its title as California’s sunniest city, sometimes you need a break from the heat.
Enter Subway Cave, a fascinating lava tube in Lassen National Forest that offers a unique day trip and a chance to cool off in nature’s air conditioning.
DISCOVER NORTHERN CALIFORNIA’S UNDERGROUND WONDER
Subway Cave isn’t just any ordinary hole in the ground. This ancient lava tube stretches a third of a mile, inviting explorers to step into a world of geological wonders.
Formed less than 20,000 years ago by the Hat Creek lava flow, it’s a testament to the region’s volcanic history.
INSIDE SUBWAY CAVE: A JOURNEY THROUGH VOLCANIC HISTORY
As you descend into the cave’s entrance, you’ll feel the temperature drop dramatically from Redding’s summer heat to a cool 46°F (8°C).
The wide, open passages make this adventure accessible for most visitors – no spelunking required!
Your flashlight will reveal fascinating features with intriguing names like Lucifer’s Cul-de-sac, The Sanctum, and Devil’s Doorway.
The cave’s height varies from 6 to 17 feet, with most sections over 25 feet wide, making it comfortable even for those who might be a bit claustrophobic.
REDDING: YOUR BASECAMP FOR THE UNEXPECTED
This just one of many reasons why Redding is the ultimate adventure hub.
In just a short drive, you can trade sun-drenched landscapes for an underground expedition.
Start your day in sunny Redding, cool off in Subway Cave, and be back in time for a sunset dinner by the Sacramento River.
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HOW TO PLAN YOUR SUBWAY CAVE ADVENTURE FROM REDDING
Ready to explore Subway Cave? Here’s how to get there and what you need to know:
- Take Highway 44 east from Redding for about 60 miles.
- After passing the Old Station Visitor Information Center, Highway 44 takes a sharp right turn. Don’t turn!
- Continue straight; you’ll end up on Highway 89.
- Keep an eye out for the Subway Cave Lava Tubes sign.
- Turn into the parking lot and look for the short trail to the subway cave entrance.
Remember:
- Open from May through October
- Bring a reliable flashlight or headlamp – it’s pitch black inside!
- Wear sturdy shoes for the uneven terrain
- Pack a light jacket – 46°F feels chilly after Redding’s heat
- The self-guided trail is about 1/3 mile long and takes about 15-20 minutes to explore
- Located at the junction of Highways 44 and 89 near Old Station
- Plenty of parking available
- Vault toilets and picnic areas on-site
Pets aren’t allowed in the cave, so leave your furry friends at home.
Photo credit: @tamionthetrail
5 HELPFUL TIPS FOR VISITING SUBWAY CAVE LAVA TUBES
1. Start Early: Beat the heat and the crowds by arriving in the morning.
2. Pack a Picnic: Before or after your underground adventure, enjoy lunch at the cave’s picnic area.
3. Make it a Day Trip: Combine your cave visit with other nearby attractions like Lassen Volcanic National Park or Burney Falls.
4. Capture the Cool: Bring a camera to document your subterranean journey (but master your low-light settings first!).
5. Respect the Cave: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve this natural wonder for future explorers.
ARE YOU REDDING TO EXPLORE?
From sunup to sundown, Redding offers endless possibilities. Whether you’re hiking sun-drenched trails or exploring cool caverns, adventure is always on the horizon.
So, are you ready to add a subterranean twist to your Redding experience?
Get out in Redding and beyond to uncover the cool secrets of Northern California!
RELATED: REDDING, CALIFORNIA: YOUR ULTIMATE 5-NIGHT SUMMER VACATION
Don’t forget to share your Subway Cave adventures with us—we love seeing visitors explore our region’s hidden gems!
For specific questions and further information about Subway Cave, call the US Forest Service at (530) 257-2151.
Tag us @visitredding and use #VisitRedding to share your cool underground experiences.