The Lava Tube in Mojave National Preserve is a short walk to a 27,000-year-old volcanic cave in the Cima Dome lava field, where a metal ladder drops through a skylight in the tube's ceiling into two underground chambers. Getting there requires a high-clearance vehicle on rough Aiken Mine Road.
Overview
The Cima Dome Volcanic Field is one of the youngest volcanic areas in the Mojave, active as recently as 27,000 years ago. The lava tube formed when a surface lava flow's exterior hardened while the interior continued to drain — leaving a hollow channel through the basalt. The tube is cool inside year-round, a useful fact when the desert above is at 100°F.
What to Expect
A short rocky trail (about 0.25 miles) leads from the primitive parking area to the skylight. The 300-foot elevation gain from road to tube is gradual over loose boulders. Inside: two main chambers connected by a section with a 6-foot ceiling (crouching required). The ladder entry is about 10 feet deep. Bring a headlamp — the tube is fully dark beyond the skylight.
Tips & Logistics
High-clearance vehicle required for Aiken Mine Road — standard sedans should not attempt it. The road runs 5 miles from Kelbaker Road; stay left at the fork to reach the tube parking. Check road conditions at the Kelso Depot visitor center or the park website before driving out. Leashed dogs are allowed. No permit required.