Type
Cave
Location
41.7106°N 121.5136°W
Golden Dome is a lava tube on Cave Loop Road named for the gold sheen of water-repellent bacteria on its ceiling. It is rated moderately challenging.
Details
- Type
- Cave
- Accessibility
- Limited accessibility
Inside the cave
Golden Dome runs about 2,229 feet. A low point at the entrance, sometimes called the headache rock, sets the tone, and stooping is needed through parts of the cave. The golden color overhead comes from a hydrophobic bacterial film that beads water into droplets, catching the light. Bring a helmet and three light sources, and get a free permit at the visitor center.