What To See In Lassen Volcanic National Park: Into The Darkness Of Subway Cave After A Fire Breakout

Oct 15, 2024

Last Updated on: Aug 29, 2025

Travel Blog

Lassen Volcanic National Park was in the news recently as the fourth-largest wildfire in California exploded out of proportion. The park’s officials evacuated staff from the Mineral community near the park headquarters. 

120 people were there in the community, and the evacuation started as the fire started moving east to the park on the evening of 26th July 2024. 

However, the park fire reached near containment in August, and on 17th August 2024, the park was partially reopened. You may wonder what to see in Lassen Volcanic National Park after the fire breakout and if there is any significant destruction in the places of interest in the park. 

Let me assure you. The park officials stated that the fire had never entered the park. However, there are still risks in the southern part of the park and Mill Creek and Mineral communities. 

Nevertheless, the reopened parts of the park are out of danger despite some lingering smoke. So, Subway Cave, located around 15 miles north of Lassen Volcanic National Park, is one of the safest sites to explore after the fire incident. Make a rush, as it remains open from late April to November

What To See In Lassen Volcanic National Park After The Fire Breakout (Exploring The Underground World Of A Lava Tube)

What To See In Lassen Volcanic National Park After The Fire Breakout

Yes, you got me right! I am talking about the Subway Cave. The self-guided trail inside the cave is ⅓ miles long and 30 feet wide, and complete darkness is inside. So, many call it the journey into darkness. The USDA Forest Service maintains the cave, which remains open from dawn to dusk. 

Before I get into more stories and facts about the cave, I want to present the basics you need to know briefly. 

Important Facts About Subway Cave, Lassen National Volcanic Park 
Location in the ParkA 2-minute walk from the parking lot near the junction of “Highway 89” and “Highway 44” in Old Station
AmenitiesPicnic
Tables
Drinking Water
Parking
Toilets
Interpretive Site
FeesFree (You can make donations)
Pet-FriendlyNo
Parking FacilitiesMany Parking Facilities, Buses and RVs
Outdoor ActivitiesInterpretative Sessions, Caving, Picnic
Temperature Inside the Cave46 Degree Farrenheit 
Nearby AttractionShasta County (Mountainous landscape and multiple picnic locations)
Nearby Trails*Cinder Crone TrailSpattercone Nature TrailButte Lake to Widow Lake, etc. 

*Many hiking trails in the park, such as the Lassen Peak, Bumpass Hell, and Mill Creek Falls, are closed as the park has partially reopened after the recent wildfire explosion. So, check with the park authorities before you plan a hike on the park trails

This Is How The Subway Cave Was Formed 

If you are a keen learner of geology and want to know what to see in Lassen Volcanic National Park, you cannot avoid the lure of Subway Cave. I have already shared an account on the geothermal wonders of the park. This cave is an example of how lava flowed around 20000 years ago and created some magic. 

A major lava explosion happened all across the Hat Creek area around 20000 years ago. The top layer of the lava flow became cold and hard in contact with air. Thus, a hard cap was formed. However, there was a continuous flow of molten lava below this cap. 

The molten lava drained out Over time, but a hollow tube structure remained there. As you hike this trail, you will find traces of the more recent lava flows. 

Route To The Subway Cave

Is Bumpass Hell on your list of what to see in Lassen Volcanic National Park? Are you planning a trip to the park soon? Then, you will be disappointed as the Bumpass Hell trek route is closed after the park has reopened following the recent fire breakout. 

Further, as Bumpass Hell is closed, you must take the Warner Valley Area route to  Devils Kitchen, which is the cave’s opening. Devils Kitchen is a 4.4-mile hike from the Warner Valley Area (camping here is closed for 2024).  

Accessing The Subway Cave 

You have to climb down metal stairs as you access the Subway Cave. You will get down into a wide opening in the ground. The ground surface has a leveled floor. However, you must be careful as you get off the stair flight. 

Further, you must wear sturdy footwear to avoid injuries and difficulties where the floor gets rough. 

Fortunately, the ceiling and walls are quite smooth, minimizing the hiking difficulty level while hiking. Also, there is complete darkness inside the cave. So, you will need a flashlight to make it to the end. 

The weather inside is a little cold, even in summer. So you will need a light jacket. Moreover, don’t forget to read and follow the interpretative signs through the trail to better understand the place. 

The best thing about this park is that it’s 30 feet wide. So, even with complete darkness inside, you never feel suffocated. 

Accessing The Subway Cave

What To See In Lassen Volcanic National Park Subway Cave

It is not a long walk inside the Subway Cave. However, this short walk is enough to make it feature on the list of what to see in Lassen Volcanic Park. 

Lucifer’s Cul-de-sac (An Attraction Very Few Knows About)

Have you listened to Satan’s Cul-de-sac from Gangland Buries Its Own? The first thing that may amaze you inside the cave is Lucifer’s Cul-de-sac. There is a split as you enter the cave, and you are to turn to the right if you want to continue the trail.

However, you will notice a big room if you are adventurous enough to turn left, when I tell you about Lucifer’s Cul-de-sac, The ceiling height starts from 6 feet and gets higher up to 15 feet.

The most amazing thing about this room inside the cave is the rock formation on the ceiling and walls. It’s gothic and justified its name. 

As The Hike Advances 

The ceiling height will vary as you continue the trek, and there are small boulder-like rock formations in many places. So, be careful with your steps and do not stumble upon them. Also, because of these rock formations, you must not wear an open-toe shoe while walking through the cave. 

Nevertheless, the ceiling formation is fascinating, and in one section, it looks like stoned rainfall or water ripples. The section is called the Lavacicle Lane. Molten lava dripped off through the cracks in the ceiling cave, and there were formations of “drip pendants” or “lavacicles.” 

Further, as you plan to take the exit, you notice all the colors in the lava rock formation, including green, blue, white, and brown lines. 

Getting Out Of The Subway Cave

As you approach the end of the cave, you will find a metal stair flight similar to the one at the entrance. From the top of the exit staircase, you can hike through an on-ground trail to the west or north to find the parking lot. 

However, I prefer to take another walk through the cave and get back to the entrance. It will be so much fun to explore this unique geological formation again. 

Things To Remember Before Getting Into The Darkness Of The Subway Cave 

Subway Cave is a hidden gem if you consider what to see in Lassen Volcanic National Park. However, once you take the hike and read the interpretative signs, you will learn why it is geologically unique. 

Nevertheless, you must be careful about certain things to ensure complete safety throughout the hike. 

You will find rattlesnakes in the trail, and you have to be respectful to these reptiles. You must not make any move to catch or hurt them. Moreover, you cannot go off trails or litter inside the cave. 

No food, water, or firelighting is allowed inside the cave. There are picnic areas nearby for you to catch refreshments. Wish you a safe, easy, and fun-filled experience inside the Subway Cave! 

Also read

Share on Social Media

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Cabo beaches

Cabo Beaches: A Practical Guide To The Coastlines Of Los Cabos

BY  Sibashree Dec 16, 2025

Located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula of Mexico is the famous region of “Los Cabos.”   This is recognized by the diverse coastline that separates the Pacific Ocean from the Sea of Cortez because of the two different towns that exist there: Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo that are joined by a corridor with many beaches and bays.  The Cabo beaches have water characteristics, accessibility, and activities that differ from one another.   There are those with calm water suitable for swimming, while others have strong currents ideal for walking, taking photos, or surfing. This is important for travelers visiting the area and have plans for activities at the beaches of Los Cabos. Geography Of Cabo Beaches The coast of Los Cabos is influenced by two bodies of water:  Pacific Ocean (West-Facing beaches)  Generally rougher water, bigger waves, and rip currents.  Sea of Cortez (east-facing beaches)  "More tranquil conditions, clearer water, and improved protection in bays."  This is why swimming and snorkeling are recommended to be undertaken in particular spots.  Beach Safety And Water Conditions Not all beaches in Cabo offer safe swimming. There are strong undertows and steep drops in many areas, most notably on the Pacific side.  Beach Flag System The majority of the popular beaches have a flag system that indicates the conditions of the water:  Green flag – Calm conditions  Yellow flag – Moderate currents, caution advised  Red flag – Hazardous conditions; do not swim  Black flag – Beach closed  Visitors should make sure to check flags and signs before entering the water.  Beaches In Cabo San Lucas The different beaches of Cabo San Lucas. 1. Medano Beach Medano Beach can be found in the nearby marina area of Cabo San Lucas and represents one of the more developed spots along the coastline.  The beach has relatively calm waters, unlike other Pacific-side beaches, and is thus often employed for swimming and aquatic sports. There are eating establishments and hotels along this coastline.  2. Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) Because it can only be reached by water, the Lover’s Beach is located close to the iconic rock formations at the famous “Land’s End.”  One side of the beach is calm since it meets the Sea of Cortez, while the other lies adjacent to “Divorce Beach,” which meets the Pacific Ocean and has dramatic waves.  3. Divorce Beach (Playa del Divorcio) This is a beach that is parallel to Lover’s Beach on the Pacific side. The waves are not ideal for swimming, and there are rip currents.  Beaches In San José del Cabo The different beaches of San Jose del Cabo. 1. Palmilla Beach Palmilla Beach is famous for its protected bay and quiet waters. It is among the beaches that have relatively stable swimming conditions, depending on the weather and the tide.  2. Costa Azul Beach Costa Azul has a number of breaks and is famous mainly for surfing. It has varying water conditions, making it not very suitable for swimming.  3. Hotel Zone Beaches In the hotel zone at San José del Cabo are long stretches of sandy beaches. While these are attractive, there are areas that have high currents and are not recommended for the inexperienced visitor. Swimmable Beaches In Los Cabos Swimming in Cabo should be restricted to beaches recognized for their calm conditions. These beaches are:  Chileno Beach  Santa Maria Beach  Palmilla Beach  Medano Beach (conditions vary)  Even in such places, circumstances change on a daily basis due to tides, wind, and seasonal changes in weather.  Snorkeling And Marine Life There are a few bays on the Sea of Cortez that offer snorkeling opportunities due to their protected location and clearer water.  Common Snorkeling Areas Chileno Bay – Gradual entry, reef visible  Santa Maria Bay - Horseshoe-shaped bay, calmer waters  The kinds of marine life that might be found there include tropical fish, rays, and others that migrate during certain seasons. The best time for snorkeling is usually early in the morning  Surfing Beaches Surfing in Cabo takes place mostly along open beaches, mainly around the area of San José del Cabo. Known Surf Areas Zippers  Acapulquito  Costa Azul  Surf conditions are dominated by swell directions, varying according to season, and larger swells usually occur from late summer to winter. Beaches For Walking And Scenic Viewing The Mexico’s beaches are more suitable for walking, photographing, and enjoying the sunset.  Pacific facing beaches around Cabo San Lucas  Playa Las Viudas  East Cape remote beaches  Usually, these regions experience intense wave action and shoreline formations. . Family Considerations Families staying in Cabo and wanting to visit beaches should consider  A calm water environment  Easy access  Availability of restrooms  Lifeguards on duty when available  Chileno, Santa Maria, and Palmilla are some varieties commonly used for these purposes. It is advisable that the conditions be checked, however.  Seasonal Considerations Winter (Dec–Feb): Cooler water, Whale migration offshore  Spring (Mar-May): Weather is stable; water conditions  Summer (Jun-Sep): Stable weather, moderate water conditions  Fall (October-November): Transitional weather, fewer crowds  Ocean conditions can change rapidly, no matter what season it is.  Public Access And Beach Use In Mexican law, every beach is public property even if it’s in front of a resort chain’s property. The access points to the beach might be an exposed pathway to the shore, but once you reach the shore, this is public property.  Amenities vary widely  Restrooms and parking are available at certain beach destinations  There are others which are undeveloped  The enforcement and laws concerning alcohol consumption and distribution might differ from one municipality to another.   Planning A Beach Visit In Cabo When visiting beaches in Cabo, it is advisable to.  Check water conditions every day  Safety signs that are posted  Don’t forget the sunscreen and water  Do not swim at unattended Pacific beaches  Compliance with local regulations and natural environments  Many wellness retreat villas in Cabo region are carefully placed in or just off the more quiet areas of the coastline.   Being in the beach environment affects the rhythm of life in the wellness retreats, ranging from the morning walks in the quiet bays to the practices conducted in the outdoors that make use of the beach breezes.   The beach environment is often simply incorporated as a passive element of the wellness activities that provide seclusion or insulate the participants from the busy beach environment. To Sum Up! The beaches in Cabo have various conditions that result from the influence of geography and development.  Knowledge on the suitability of various beaches for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, or sightseeing goes a long way in ensuring that one takes advantage of the experience while staying in Cabo. All one needs is the correct information.

READ MORE Solo Adventures

Why Solo Adventures Can Be Life-Changing

BY  Sibashree Sep 1, 2025

Ever thought about just… taking off somewhere by yourself? No schedules to match, no arguing over playlists, no “where do you want to eat?” back-and-forth.  Just you, a bag, and the road. Sounds fun, right? Also a little scary, I know. But here’s the thing, solo trips end up being some of the most eye-opening experiences people have.  You’re tossed out of the comfort zone, forced to trust your gut, and you notice things in a way you can’t when you’re tagging along with a group. And it’s not just a random personal choice anymore. More people are doing it. After the pandemic, especially, folks wanted out of the usual grind.  Travel sites keep reporting more single bookings. Instagram, TikTok—everywhere you look, someone’s posting about heading off alone.  Even in small places like Bandera, Texas, the solo-travel vibe is strong. There’s a weird kind of freedom in being alone with your thoughts in a new place.  Anyway, that’s what this post is about. I will talk about why your solo adventures change you and how you grow into bigger shifts. Also, I will discuss what to know so the trip feels exciting and safe. Where You Stay Shapes Your Solo Adventures When you’re by yourself, the place you stay matters a lot more than when you’ve got a group.  Comfort jumps up the list. Same with safety. But there’s also this other piece—connection. A good stay gives you something solid to come back to at night, not just a bed.  There’s no shortage of lodging in Texas. But if you are in Bandera, opt for Riverwalk RV Resort. If you end up in Bandera, Riverwalk RV Resort is a neat option. It kind of nails that balance.  Additionally, you can hole up in a tiny home or RV site if you want privacy, but you’re still around people.  It’s easy to bump into fellow travelers by the pool, around the fire pit, or on the walking paths. For solo folks, that little bit of community keeps things from feeling too quiet. And location? Huge. Stay near the action, which basically means near the trails, river, and town squares. And, you don’t need anyone else to nudge you into exploring.  In Bandera, you’ve got hiking, kayaking, and small-town events right there. The right stay makes solo travel feel both safe and adventurous, which is honestly the sweet spot. How Solo Adventures Mirror Bigger Social Trends This isn’t just about wanderlust. It reflects a bigger shift happening everywhere. People are leaning into independence. Also, it is quite evident that they are chasing flexibility and choosing experiences over things.  Moreover, remote work has blown the doors wide open. So, all of a sudden, you could travel without begging for vacation days.  And younger travelers especially? They’d rather collect memories than stuff, so yeah, solo travel fits. Studies show that time alone can improve focus, reduce stress, and even spark creativity. Also, the last few years have changed how people think. The pandemic was a slap in the face. It has taught us the most important lesson these heavy quotes couldn’t: life’s short, don’t wait around.  Toss in politics, money worries, all that, and suddenly more folks are saying, “Forget waiting for perfect timing, I’ll go now.” Solo travel lets you grab control of your own time. And there’s the mental health angle too. Alone time helps with stress, sparks creativity, and clears your head.  A solo trip feels like pressing reset. Not just another vacation, but a way to figure yourself out again. The Irony Of Meeting More People Alone Here’s the funny part: when you go alone, you actually meet more people. Weird, right? But think about it—groups stick together.  You’ve already got company, so you don’t reach out. Alone, you’re easier to approach. And let’s be honest, you’ll want to talk to someone eventually. So conversations happen. Maybe you end up sharing a table, maybe someone invites you along for a tour, maybe it’s just a quick chat in line.  Sometimes they’re tiny moments, sometimes lifelong friendships. You never really know. Of course, you’ve gotta use judgment. Solo travel makes you sharper about that. You get good at reading the vibe, trusting your gut, knowing when to say yes and when to walk away. That’s a skill that sticks with you. Practical Tips For Safer Solo Adventures Alright, so here’s the real-world stuff. Safety first, always. Pick places with good reviews. Share your plans with a friend. Keep extra copies of your ID somewhere safe. Non-negotiable. Pack light, too. You’ll regret dragging heavy bags when it’s just you carrying them. Essentials like a portable charger, first aid kit, and reusable water bottle make trips smoother. Insurance if you’re going longer—it’s boring, but you’ll thank yourself if anything goes wrong. And yeah, tech helps a ton. Google Maps, translation apps, online reviews—you’re rarely lost anymore. Just… don’t stare at your phone the whole trip. You didn’t fly across the country to look at a screen. What Solo Travel Teaches You About Yourself The coolest part isn’t really the destination. It’s what you figure out about you. When nobody else is steering, you find out what excites you, what stresses you, and what you’re actually capable of. You’ll surprise yourself, too. Maybe you handle public transport in another language. Maybe you fix a random travel hiccup on your own. Those wins pile up and you start realizing—hey, I can handle a lot more than I thought. But here’s the twist: being alone can also make you appreciate people more. Coming home after days of quiet makes a simple dinner with friends feel extra warm. You get this balance—you learn to enjoy solitude and community. That’s why solo trips are so powerful. They remind you that freedom’s possible, even in little doses. They show you you’re stronger than you give yourself credit for. And sometimes? The best travel buddy is just… you. At the end of it all, travel isn’t only about where you go. It’s about who you come back as. Read Also: Is New Orleans Safe as a Solo Traveller: Shared Experience! Learn All About the Best Solo Trip in India Right Here! Is San Juan Safe for Solo Women Travelers?

READ MORE Fiji Cruise

Thinking Of A Fiji Cruise? Tips To Get You Started

BY  Nabamita Sep 29, 2023

Australians and New Zealanders have learned to appreciate the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical adventures that the South Pacific has to offer. If you’re going on vacation, then look no further than the magical islands of Fiji because this destination has all the things that you need. See more about Australian-Fiji relations on this site here. Exotic birds, lush greenery, and refreshing beaches are just right on your doorstep, and it’s just a few days away from Brisbane or Sydney by ship. Explore these idyllic destinations at your own pace while enjoying the luxuries of a floating resort. However, before you set sail on this unforgettable journey, there are a few things to consider, and below are some valuable tips and insights to help you plan the perfect Fiji cruise experience. Whether it's choosing between small or large ships, or finding ways to save more on your voyage, below is some helpful information for you. Considerations for Your Fiji Cruise Year-round cruises are available, but the summer in Vanuatu, where it’s the most humid and hottest time is between November to March. Fiji temperatures can average between 26 to 31 degrees Celsius. Families with young children can be expected to be on board from December to January when the annual holidays are, so you might want to schedule your vacation when it’s not too busy. Itinerary Variety Islands in Fiji are more than 300, and only a hundred of them are inhabited. While it’s true that you can enjoy the resorts on each of them, you can only explore the rest by ship. Buying an exclusive yacht isn’t an option, but there are cruises in Fiji that can help you explore untouched destinations and off the beaten tracks. All of these can be done while you’re sleeping in comfortable cabins at night and waking up to a hot cup of coffee in the morning. Duration Choose among 12 or 17-night journeys and embark on either Auckland, New Zealand, or Sydney, Australia. This is going to give you enough time to visit popular ports like Mystery Island, Honolulu, Noumea, Suva, and Lautoka. Unwind in inhabited islands with underwater shipwrecks and beaches lined with coconut trees, or trek through the forest to feel the thunder of the Mele Cascades waterfall. Longer cruises often allow for more extensive exploration and give you ample time to immerse yourself in the beauty of Fiji, so don’t miss this opportunity. Activities and Excursions Snorkel at the beach and encounter sharks, and you can sail with the friendliest crew in Fiji. Small groups are guided by the crew and you’ll have the chance to feed the fish, get musical entertainment, view the turtles when in season, and get a delicious buffet lunch. Tribal face painting and fruit platters may also be onboard, depending on your chosen activities. Get a slice of paradise when you go into this ancient coral cay with its beautiful lagoon and surrounding fishes and experience the true meaning of tropical wonder. Onboard Amenities Are you looking for luxurious accommodations, fine dining options, or exciting entertainment choices? Sea-gazing is often the most popular, where the passengers have an obstructed view of the ocean in a glass-enclosed walkway. Others have slides that are not for the faint of heart, and other rides may also be available with splash areas that children can enjoy. Unique restaurants with affordable buffets or gourmets can also cater to your taste, so choose your ship well. Setting a Budget Basic room categories include the standard suites, balcony, and an outside view of the ocean. As you add more comfort, it becomes more expensive on the higher decks, where you can expect VIP access and exclusive amenities. Save money by going too early or late in the season and take a gamble with the weather. Look out for special deals or promotions that may help make your dream vacation more affordable. Small Ships vs Large Ships Cruisers may wonder about the difference in the size of the vessels when it comes to entertainment and dining choices. For those who don’t really mind the crowd, the best way to enjoy your luxury vacation in Fiji is through the big ships. It’s a big city where you can eat at different restaurants at night. There are endless possibilities where you can enjoy rope courses and see a lot of game shows and Broadway musicals. Rooms can be buzzing with extensive onboard activities such as pools, spas, casinos, and theatres, and there is never a dull moment in these floating resorts. They often feature spacious cabins with balconies for enjoying stunning ocean views, and you can read more about what to do at the ship at this link: https://www.escape.com.au/top-lists/top-tips-for-first-time-cruisers-11-things-ive-learnt-on-ships/image-gallery/c7a11bca07ecf3a65b7babf2d1d9da9a?page=1. Those who are on a honeymoon may prefer an intimate and personalized experience. With fewer passengers on board, you can expect more attentive service and the opportunity to form closer connections with both fellow travelers and crew members. The small groups also allow people to access remote locations that larger vessels cannot reach, giving you the chance to explore hidden gems and tropical havens. How to Save More on Your Cruise? As new ships are being built, the cruises are becoming more affordable as the years go by. With proper research, savvy spending, and adequate planning, you’ll have a trip that you can enjoy without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you out. High-demand cruise lines may publish a cheaper deal when they first sell their tickets, but there can be an increase as more people are buying them. When you have more flexibility, get an excellent deal around 90 days before the actual departure in Fiji and track the fares on various websites. Call an expert to see selections of staterooms and cabins. Booking through them can be helpful because they do most of the research for you, and they rarely charge extra for the knowledge. They also get specialized access to the sale price, which can save you money. Package deals that include flights, accommodations, and cruises all in one price are ideal, especially if you plan a lot of excursions while you’re in Fiji. These inclusions can sometimes provide better value than booking each component separately. Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit Is Machu Picchu Closing In 2023? Know It All Here!