"Views from the Lava Beds" by NPS photo , public domain
Lava Beds
National Monument - California
Lava Beds National Monument is located in northeastern California, in Siskiyou and Modoc counties. The Monument lies on the northeastern flank of the Medicine Lake Volcano, and has the largest total area covered by a volcano in the Cascade Range.
Map of the Nobles Emigrant Trail section, part of the California National Historic Trail (NHT), located outside of Susanville, California. Published by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) of Goosenest Ranger District South in Klamath National Forest (NF) in California. Published by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS)
Lava Beds
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lava Beds National Monument
Things to See and Do on Your Own
Something for
Everyone
Many visitors to Lava Beds are excited to discover there is much more to do here than they
thought! There is plenty see and do for a day or even a week— explore a cave, hike a trail,
photograph wildlife, climb a spatter cone, contemplate a battlefield, peer into a crater, or view
Native American rock art.
The sites in this bulletin are arranged by their distance from the Visitor Center, and represent
only a few highlights of what Lava Beds has to offer. If you are particularly interested in
one aspect of Lava Beds such as Modoc War sites, geologic features, rock art, caves, or
wilderness hiking, please ask for additional brochures. Trail guides are available at Gillems
Camp, Captain Jacks Stronghold, and Petroglyph Point. You’ll also find interpretive signs at
these and many other sites throughout the Monument, and inside Mushpot Cave.
Caves
Hundreds of lava tube caves beckon exploration at Lava
Beds. They vary greatly in difficulty, length, and
complexity. Over two dozen caves have developed
entrances and trails, and are shown on the Monument’s
map. Most are open throughout the year to explore on
your own.
If you plan to explore caves, please stop by the
Visitor Center to get a caving brochure and talk
with a ranger to ensure you are prepared. Free
guided cave tours are also offered daily in summer.
Hidden Valley and
Mammoth Crater
A short trail meanders along the rim of Hidden Valley
under Ponderosa pines. Enjoy the rare shade this area
provides in summertime, and observe the impressive
results of lava that flowed through from Mammoth
Crater. The short trail to Mammoth Crater begins across
the road at the parking area and leads up to the rim.
Imagine lava flowing in multiple episodes from this
massive crater about 30,000 years ago. It created
all the lava tube caves in the Cave Loop area, and
many more farther north. To explore the rocky,
forested landscape of Lava Beds’ southern end
further, continue around the Big Nasty Trail or hike
the nearby trail to Heppe Cave.
Symbol Bridge and
Big Painted Cave
This easy 0.8 mi (1.3 km) trail leads to Symbol Bridge
with a short spur trail to Big Painted Cave. Both cave
entrances contain black and white Modoc-style
pictographs on boulders and walls. Although many
pictographs are weathered and faint, you will still marvel
at the artwork here. Please stay on the trail and do not
touch the pictographs, since oils from your skin
will cause further deterioration. Visit this site
with respect, as it still holds cultural significance
for some Native Americans.
Schonchin Butte
A hike up the steep 0.7 mi (1.1 km) trail to the historic
Schonchin Butte Fire Lookout is well worth the effort!
Imagine the labor of the Civilian Conservation Corps
crew that not only carried up by hand all the materials
needed to build the lookout, but first had to build the
trail itself. Enjoy the breeze and scenery any time of
year from the lookout’s balcony, where interpretive
panels identify landmarks in all four directions. In
summer, a firefighter may be on duty to tell you
about their work and administer a Junior Fire
Lookout program for kids.
Fleener Chimneys
A short side road takes you to the fascinating Fleener
Chimneys. This spatter cone is the source of the rough
Devils Homestead aa flow. It was created as erupting
globs of molten lava piled up on each other like sticky
oatmeal, leaving a 50 ft (15 m) deep chimney behind in
the center. Picnic tables at this site are shaded by
junipers. The tables were constructed by the
Civilian Conservation Corps more than sixty years
ago! The massive logs were obtained at Oregon
Caves National Monument, and the rocks gathered
locally. An accessible restroom is also available
here.
Thomas-Wright
Battlefield and
Black Crater
This 1.1 mi (1.8 km) trail leads to the site of a Modoc
ambush on an Army reconnaissance mission during the
Modoc War. Interpretive signs at the beginning and end
of the trail explain the battle and its aftermath. The main
trail follows the edge of the lava flow from Black Crater.
A short side trail just past the trailhead also leads onto
Black Crater itself, a large spatter cone. Look for tree
molds, made when a living tree was burned away by
fresh lava and left the imprint of its bark inside. If
you are interested in exploring more geologic
features, be sure to stop at pullouts in the Devils
Homestead lava flow, just north on the main road.
Gillems Camp and
Sheepy Ridge
From April through June 1873, Army soldiers were
stationed here during the Modoc War. Walk the easy
guided trail around this area and discover why ancient
Modoc, the Army, the Civilian Conservation Corps, and
National Park Service rangers alike cherished its
location on the shores of old Tule Lake. You can also
hike to the top of Gillem Bluff (known as Sheepy Ridge
to the Modoc and settlers) alon
● Least Challenging
These caves have
relatively high ceilings and
smoother floors or trails.
Mushpot Cave (770 ft / 235 m)
Recommended as an introductory cave, interpretive signs
explain: formations, ecology and cave climate. The cave
is lighted, however, bring extra light and watch your
head.
Sentinel Cave (3,280 ft / 1,000 m)
This cave’s easy main trail requires no stooping or
ducking, and has lots of interesting features. This is one
of the only developed caves with two entrances.
Valentine Cave (1,635 ft / 498 m)
Named for the day it was discovered in 1933, it has large
main passages with smooth floors and walls. It was
created by a different lava source than the caves on Cave
Loop.
Skull Cave (580 ft / 177 m)
The wide open feel of this cave makes it an excellent
choice for those who do not like tight closed-in spaces. It
is a remnant of three very large lava tubes, one on top of
the other. This allows cold winter air to be trapped inside
and create a year-round ice floor on the lower level,
accessible via a smooth trail, down a metal stairway to a
platform. It is named for the bones of pronghorn, bighorn
sheep, and two human skeletons discovered inside.
▲ Moderatly
Challenging
These caves may
involve stooping
through low sections
and/or rough floors.
Additional protective
gear is recommended
for the more difficult
spots.
Golden Dome Cave (2,229 ft / 679 m)
Beware of “headache rock” when entering and exiting the
cave via the ladder. The downstream portion of this cave
(heading north) requires some stooping. The back section
where the “Golden Dome” is located is a figure-8; take
note of your location so you don’t go around in circles.
The golden ceiling in this and many other caves here are
the result of light reflecting off water droplets that bead
up on a coating of hydrophobic bacteria. The bacteria are
not harmful to humans but are easily damaged, so please
do not touch. The upstream portions of this cave require
more stooping and some crawling.
Sunshine Cave (466 ft / 142 m)
Two collapses allow sunlight to enter the cave where
abundant vegetation grows. Stooping is required in the
main passage, and the back section has floors that are
steep, very rough and sometimes wet. Beautiful
hydrophobic bacteria coats the ceiling at the back of this
cave, where winter icicles adorn cracks in the ceiling.
Balcony Cave (2,903 ft / 885 m)
and Boulevard Cave (759 ft / 231 m)
These caves have sections of low ceilings, and an
optional crawl up onto a balcony created by changing
lava flow levels. The “boulevard” was named for the
smooth floor created by a lava cascade.
Merrill Cave (650 ft / 198 m)
Visitors once ice skated by lantern light on an enormous
ice floor at the bottom of this cave. Changing air flow
patterns are the suspected cause of melting. Today you
may see small ice remnants from a viewing platform at
the bottom of a stairway.
Heppe Cave (170 ft / 52 m)
A .4 mile walk will take you to this tall twilight-lit cave.
In some years you might find a small pool of water; this
water can be an important water source for wildlife as
there is no surface water in Lava Beds.
Big Painted Cave ( 266 ft / 81 m) and
Symbol Bridge (148 ft / 45 m)
Irreplaceable historic Native American pictographs adorn
the entrance areas of these two short caves, look closely
to find the pictographs as they blend in with the rock. An
easy 0.75 mi (1.21 km) hike is required to reach them.
Ovis Cave (216 ft / 66 m) and
Paradise Alleys (1,033 ft / 315 m)
Ovis cave contained 36 bighorn skulls when it was
discovered in the 1890’s. In Ovis ceiling heights exceed
25 ft (7.6 m), and some outside light is visible
throughout. Paradise Alleys has smooth floors and
ceiling hights exceeding 7ft (2m) are found throughout
this cave.
■ Most Challenging
These caves have some
portions which require
crawling. Helmets,
kneepads and gloves are a
must in these areas. They
are also more directionally
challenging. Purchasing
maps is highly
recommended!
Labyrinth Cave (1,239 ft / 378 m) and
Lava Brook Cave (859 ft / 262 m)
These caves near the Visitor Center are connected by a
twisting segment requiring crawling. Ceiling heights tend
to be low throughout. As the name Labyrinth suggests
you must pay attention to your route! The “Lava Brook”
is an interesting pattern left on the floor of one passage
by the last lava flow. As you travel through these caves
be prepared to exit at one of three locations, the
Labyrinth, Lava Brook or Thunderbolt entrances.
Thunderbolt Cave (2,561 ft / 781 m)
Crawling is required in the downstream portions of this
cave where it connects to Labyrinth and Lava Brook
Caves. Upstream (right) from the entrance are a few tight
areas, one of which is 6 in (15 cm) wide at knee level.
There is some stooping before the ceiling height allows
walking upright.
Hercules Leg Cave (1,948 ft / 594 m) and
Juniper Cave (2,362 ft / 720 m)
These two caves were connected by the removal of debris
in a collapse pit, and together make one long excursion
Lava Beds
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lava Beds National Monument
Lava Beds Trails
Hiking at Lava
Beds
The Short Trails
Lava Beds has twelve hiking trails. The most popular trails are short, but lead to interesting
historic sites and geological features. Due to resource concerns, pets and bicycles are not
permitted on any park trails, on in non-developed area or caves.
All trails cross or enter the
non-developed backcountry, while the long trails are primarily in designated wilderness areas.
The trails in this bulletin are arranged by their distance from the visitor center. Carry plenty of
water regardless of trail length—no surface water exists at Lava Beds. Watch for rattlesnakes
and wear sunscreen and a hat in summer. Be prepared for sudden weather changes any time of
year.
Bunchgrass Trail
Start across from Site B-7 in the campground. Follow
along the northeast side of Crescent Butte to the park
road. Approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) long.
fine pictographs at the bridge and cave. Take the Skull
Cave road to the first parking area and trailhead.
Across the road from the Symbol Bridge Trail, you will
find the Missing Link Trail.
Missing Link Trail
This trail links the Three Sisters Trail to the
Bunchgrass Trail, creating a 10-mile (16km) loop.
Missing Link begins on the Bunchgrass Trail about 0.5
miles (0.8 km) from B-Loop in the campground. Hike
on the Missing Link Trail for 0.7 mile (1.1 km) to reach
the Skull Cave road. The trail ends across from the
trailhead for Symbol Bridge. Hike another 0.1 mile
(0.16km) on the road to Skull Cave to reach the
trailhead for Lyons/Three Sisters Trail.
Thomas-Wright Battlefield Trail
Volcanism and history are featured here. The hike onto
Black Crater is less than 0.3 miles (0.5 km) by bearing
right. The battlefield is 1.1 miles (1.8km) one way.
View fine wildflower displays in season.
Heppe Cave Trail
Heppe Cave Trail can be found on the road to
Mammoth Crater. This 0.4-mile (0.6 km) trail begins
under tall Ponderosa pines. As you reach the end of the
trail, you will view an enormous collapse. Follow the
trail into Heppe Ice Cave that has a large opening at
both ends.
Gillem Bluff Trail
This trail climbs 550 feet in elevation over 0.7 miles
(1.1 km) to the top of Gillem Bluff (Sheepy Ridge), for
a view of Gillems Camp and the surrounding
landscape.
Captain Jacks Stronghold Trail
Two
self-guiding interpretive trails wind through the heart of
the Modoc’s wartime defenses. The inner loop is 0.5
miles (0.8 km), and the outer loop 1.5 miles (2.4 km).
Be prepared for rough terrain.
Big Nasty Trail
A loop trail, Big Nasty is 2 miles (3.2 km) long.
Named after a brush-covered rough lava area just to the
north— “it is big and it is nasty!” From the Mammoth
Crater/Hidden Valley pullout, the trail starts along the
crater rim. Turn left from the Mammoth Crater Trail.
Petroglyph Point Trail
This very short trail begins on the east side of
Petroglyph Point just beyond the bulletin board on the
dirt road. The trailhead parking lot is on top of a short
rise across from the trail entrance. Hike to the top to
enjoy an impressive view of the basin and the Medicine
Lake volcano.
Schonchin Butte Trail
This trail climbs 0.7 miles (1.4 km) to the fire lookout
and a panoramic view. Trail has a 500 -foot elevation
gain. You can be a guest of the lookout on duty in
summer. Please stay on the designated trail and do not
shortcut switchbacks.
Please do not hike to the edge of the cliff to avoid
disturbing nesting birds such as prairie falcons, redtailed hawks, and owls. Please do not attempt to hike
to the top from the west side of Petroglph Point. A
social trail there has caused severe erosion and passes
too close to nesting sites.
Symbol Bridge Trail
Winding 0.8 miles (1.3 km) past interesting lava tube
collapses and other features, this trail leads to many
The Long Trails
Three Sisters Trail
Entered at the campground from A-Loop, this trail
loops out into the wilderness and returns to the Skull
Cave Road. It is 8.7 miles (14.0 km) long.
Lyons Trail
A former monument road, this trail crosses park
wilderness from south to north between the Skull
Cave parking area and Hospital Rock. It is 9.4 miles
(15.2 km) long.
Special Concerns
in the Wilderness
On October 13, 1972, 27,970 acres (11319 hectares)
of the Lava Beds backcountry were designated as
wilderness. Pets, bicycles, hunting, and
motorized vehicles are not permitted in
wilderness areas.
Whitney Butte Trail
From Merrill Cave parking area to the west boundary
of the monument, this trail crosses the wilderness in an
east-west direction, curving around Whitney Butte.
Enjoy an impressive view of Mount Shasta and the
Callahan Lava Flow. This trail is 3.3 miles (5.3 km)
one way.
the vicinity of chimneys is not permitted. Camping
within 0.25 miles (0.4 km) of roads, trailheads, and
parking areas is also prohibited.
No person may camp in a nondeveloped or
wilderness area with a group size of more than
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lava Beds
Lava Beds National Monument
The Geology of Lava Beds
Why Is There
Lava Here?
Lava Beds National Monument protects a wide variety of well-preserved lava features
resulting from many eruptions of the Medicine Lake shield volcano over the past
500,000 years—including cinder and spatter cones, ‘lava beds’, and almost 700 lava
tube caves. These features result from a tectonic plate beneath the Pacific Ocean
slowly sliding under the continental plate. As it dives deep into the earth, this oceanic
plate melts into magma, which then rises to the surface as lava several hundred miles
inland from the coast. The Medicine Lake volcano is one of many places where these
eruptions occurred throughout the Cascade Range of volcanoes, which stretches from
northern California into British Columbia.
Medicine Lake is unique among Cascades volcanoes for its great surface area, as well
as the wide variety of features left behind by eruptions of different characteristics and
composition. These special places are yours to explore both here and throughout the
surrounding area. Please remember that the unique geology of Lava Beds belongs to
everyone, and rock collection is prohibited.
Why Doesn’t It Look
Like a Volcano?
Lava Beds lies on the northern flank of the
Medicine Lake volcano and covers only about 10
percent of its surface area. At approximately 150
mi (241 km) around the base, 7900 ft (2408 m) in
height, and covering over 700 square mi (1125
km2), Medicine Lake is by far the largest volcano
by volume in the Cascade Range. It is believed to
have many small underground magma chambers
rather then one large chamber. Eruptions from
nearly 200 surface vents have created a volcano
with a low, broad, gently sloping profile—like a
shield. This profile built up over time by relatively
mild eruptions of fluid lava flowing over large
areas. The amount of gas and certain chemicals
present in magma also contribute to the way a
volcano erupts. Current eruptions on the Hawaiian
islands are a good example of what the Medicine
Lake volcano looked like as it formed.
By contrast, composite, or strato-, volcanoes are
what many people think of when they hear the term
‘volcano’. Familiar composite volcanoes of the
Cascade Range include Mounts Shasta, Lassen,
Mazama (Crater Lake), St. Helens, and Rainier.
These volcanoes result from layers of lava and ash
that pile up primarily around one central vent,
creating the characteristic pointed cone. These
eruptions are often violent, and may include the
ejection of large amounts of ash, pyroclastic
materials such as hot rocks, and even massive
mudflows (lahars) if glaciers on a volcano’s peak
melt quickly.
Activity and Age
The Medicine Lake volcano has erupted
intermittently for approximately half a million
years. The most recent flows of pumice and
obsidian at Glass Mountain (south of Lava Beds in
the Modoc National Forest) occurred less than 900
years ago. Since there have been no eruptions
within historical times, and there are no signs that
the volcano is getting ready to erupt soon,
geologists consider Medicine Lake ‘dormant’.
However, since the tectonic forces beneath all the
Cascades volcanoes are still in motion, it is likely
that there will be an eruption here again sometime
in the future. Perhaps Native Americans watched as
the volcano came alive here hundreds or thousands
of years ago, and fountains of glowing rock fed
rivers of fire that poured over the landscape.
Perhaps future generations will witness this
awesome spectacle again someday.
thirty separate lava flows exposed at Lava Beds.
Rocks visible within the Monument range from two
million year old volcanic tuff at Gillem Bluff in the
northwest corner, to basalt about 1100 years old at
the Callahan Flow in the southwest corner.
Multiple eruptions of liquid basalt that flowed from
Mammoth and Modoc Craters (on the Monument’s
southern boundary) between 30,000 and 40,000
years ago formed most of the lava tube caves here.
This flow covers about 70 percent of the
Monument. A different flow in the southeast corner
of the park that emerged around 11,000 years ago
was lower in viscosity and created smoothertextured caves, including Valentine Cave. Cinder
cones, spatter cones, and other surface lava flows
also appeared periodically between every few
hundred and every few tens of thousands of years.
Today you can see the hardened results of over
Volcanic Features
Lava Tube Caves
A gentle slope and very fluid lava are required for
the formation of lava tubes. Lava up to 2000° F
(1093° C) flows downhill and immediately begins
to cool and solidify upon contact with the ground
and air. Lava touching the ground solidifies first,
followed by the sides and then the top of the flow.
This hard shell of cooled lava insulates the liquid
rock inside, allowing it to flow long distances
before it cools and comes to a stop. The lava
continues to flow until it either drains out or sea
Lava Beds
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lava Beds National Monument
Fire at Lava Beds
A New Look at Fire
Wildland fire is one of the most powerful forces of nature and is often viewed as purely
destructive. However, within the last few decades, scientific research has enlightened land
managers to the ecological importance of fire in wild ecosystems. In wild areas such as Lava
Beds, fire management is reintroducing fire to protect developed areas and restore ecosystem
health.
A Natural Process
Periodic wildfires in the lava beds once burned away
plant litter and undergrowth regularly. As a result,
most fires crept along the ground and were not hot
enough to do long-term damage to plant communities.
Burning vegetation recycled nutrients into the soil.
Wildfires also burned in a “mosaic” pattern,
following fuel beds and natural barriers such as lava
outcroppings.
From the 1920’s to the late 1970’s, all fires at Lava
Beds were suppressed. The belief was that all wildfire
was “bad”. Natural fuels are now present in excessive
amounts that can produce more intense wildfires.
These fires are more difficult to control and pose a
greater threat to life and property than periodic ground
fires.
The ponderosa pines along the monument’s southern
boundary have thick bark when mature, and are
generally resistant to periodic ground fires.
However, aging shrubs now provide an abundance of
“ladder fuels” that allow fire to climb higher into
large trees and kill them.
A Land Without
Fire
The lack of fire has also been detrimental to the plants
of Lava Beds. The plant community of bitterbrush
and other shrubs is now overgrown, with little new
growth. New bitterbrush sprouts are a primary forage
for the monument’s deer population.
Patches of ground were cleared for new vegetation,
providing nutritious browse for wildlife. Some older
vegetation was left behind, providing adequate cover
for small animals.
The lack of periodic fire to burn away the understory
has also inhibited the growth of new ponderosa pines.
These trees require clear ground with minimal
competion for nutrients and sunlight in order to
reproduce.
Fire Management
At Lava Beds
The National Park Service recognizes that natural
forces should be the primary influences on park
ecosystems. The fire management program at Lava
Beds is actively engaged in reintroducing fire through
two methods: wildland fire use and prescribed fire.
Wildland Fire Use
If weather conditions will permit lightning-ignited fire
to burn at the proper intensity to benefit rather than
damage natural resources, managers can allow fires to
burn. If threats are too great, the fire will be
suppressed entirely, or minimun suppression tactics
may be used to contain the fire within safe boundaries.
Safety
For More Information
Public safety and the protection of property and
important natural and cultural resources are the top
priorities of the fire management program. Fire
personnel monitor weather and fuel conditions to
predict how a fire is going to behave. Fire personnel
then determine whether it is safe to ignite a prescribed
burn or manage a lightning-caused fire for ecosystem
health as a wildland fire use project. When safety and
resource benefits are in question, all natural fires are
suppressed and prescribed fire projects postponed.
If you have any questions or would like more
information about the fire management program at
Lava Beds, please visit the Fire Management Office in
the headquarters area, or contact the office by phone at
530-667-8122.
If you would like to visit one of the areas where fire
has been reintroduced, we would be happy to assist
you. Thank you for your support as we bring the
natural process of fire back to Lava Beds.
EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA
Prescribed Fire
It is difficult for nature to catch up with fifty years of
fire suppression. For this reason, fire management
personnel prescribe fire to treat unhealthy landscapes,
just like a doctor prescribes medication to treat
illnesses.
Under strict weather and fuel conditions, managers
selectively ignite areas in an effort to reduce heavy
fuel loads and reintroduce fire. Reduction of fuels
helps managers control future wildfires and protect
life and property. The monument’s boundaries and
developed areas are primary targets for prescribed
fire.
All human-caused fires in the monument are
suppressed. Please do not leave your campfire
unattended or smoke while walking on trails; even
accidental human-caused fires can carry significant
fines.
During a fire, you may encounter smoke and
temporary trail closures. We urge you to obey all
warning signs for your safety and the safety of fire
personnel.
Lava Beds
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
3
Lava Beds National Monument
Bats
Bats at Lava Beds
Behavior
Fourteen different species of bats inhabit Lava Beds National Monument. They all belong
to the sub-order Microchiroptera, and seven of these belong to the genus Myotis. All eat
insects and the majority live inside caves, although a few species dwell in trees or
buildings. The most studied bat species within the monument are Townsend’s big-eared
bats (Corynorhinus townsendii) and Brazilian free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis).
Echolocation
Cave-dwelling bats leave their roosts as early as two
hours before sundown to search for insects using
echolocation, and return at sunrise. High frequency
sound waves are produced by the vocal cords and reflect
off objects in their path. The reflected waves returning to
the bat’s ear. This allows the bat to determine the size of
prey and their distance from other objects such as
buildings, people and cave entrances.
Hibernation or Migration?
Most of the Lava Beds bats, including Townsend’s bigeared bat, hibernate during the winter. During
hibernation, the bat’s internal body temperature is
reduced to near freezing. Some of the bats living within
the monument hibernate in clusters inside the caves. The
Benefits
Pest Control
Bats in the vicinity of Lava Beds are insectivores, and
their feeding habits help to keep insect populations low.
One adult Small-Footed Myotis Bat is capable of eating
up to six hundred mosquitoes in an hour. Townsend’s
Big-eared Bats consume moths, and the Pallid Bat
occasionally eats scorpions. One way to determine if
moth-eating bats have been in an area is to look at the
ground or cave floor. They eat only the soft body parts of
insects and leave the wings.
Brazilian free-tailed bat, a summer resident at Lava
Beds, is active throughout the year and migrates to
warmer climates in central and southern California
and northern Mexico in winter.
Reproduction
Delayed fertilization is common in both hibernating
and migrating bat species. Mating occurrs in late
fall, and the female stores sperm until ovulation
occurs the next spring. Colonies are formed during
the summer maternal season, and consist only of
females and pups. In some species , densities in
maternal colonies exceed five hundred pups per
square foot!
In other parts of the United States and throughout
the world, bats also feed upon pollen and nectar.
Bats move pollen from one plant or flower to
another and fertilization occurs. Saguaro, peaches,
figs, agave, and wild bananas are just a few fruits
which require pollination by bats.
Pollination
Please Be
Bat-Friendly
Bats are very sensitive to human disturbance. In summer
they may vacate an area, abandoning pups before they
are able to care for themselves. It is for this reason that
some of our caves are closed during the summer season
when maternal colonies are present. In winter,
hibernating bats can waste precious body fat when they
warm themselves up to respond to a disturbance, and can
die as a result.
What To Do If You See Bats
Keep lights down. Bats are nocturnal and are
accustomed to the dark. A bright light can be disturbing.
Be as quiet as possible. Talking in a low voice is better
EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA
than whispering, and try not to shuffle your feet.
Bats are disturbed by a wide range of noises
humans can’t hear.
Leave the area immediately, and report the sighting
to the visitor center or a ranger. We will want
information regarding the colony, including the
cave name and the approximate number of bats.
Rangers may ask you to point out the location on a
cave map.
Thank you for helping protect these fascinating and
important creatures!
Lava Beds
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lava Beds National Monument
Birds of Lava Beds
Occurrences
Symbol Key
Order
1
2
3
4
5
Aquatic or Marsh Habitat (Tule Lake)
Pine Forests (Mammoth Crater)
Sagebrush-Grasslands (Capt. Jacks Stronghold)
Brushlands (Campground/Visitor Center)
Petroglyph Point
Northern
Flicker
P
S
W
M
Permanent Resident
Summer Resident
Winter Resident
Migrant
R Rare
I Irregular Visitor
? Hypothetical
(Report if observed)
* Introduced
Family
Common name ......................................Genus species ............................... Occurences
Gaviiformes
Gaviidae (Loons)
Common Loon .............................................. Gavia immer ......................................... 1:S
Piciformes
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
Lewis’ Woodpecker ...................................... Melanerpes lewis .................................. 1,4:P:I
Williamson’s Sapsucker................................ Sphyrapicus thyroideus......................... 2:P:R
Red Breasted Sapsucker................................ Sphyrapicus varius ............................... 2,4:P
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker ............................. Sphyrapicus varius ............................... 2,4:I
Downy Woodpecker ..................................... Picoides pubescens ............................... 4:P
Hairy Woodpecker ........................................ Picoides villosus ................................... 2:P
Black-backed Woodpecker ........................... Picoides arcticus .................................. 2:P:R
White-headed Woodpecker ........................... Picoides albolarvatus ........................... 2:P
Northern Flicker............................................ Colaptes auratus................................... 2,3,4:P
Pileated Woodpecker .................................... Dryocopus pileatus............................... 2:I
Pelicaniformes
Pelecanidae (Pelicans)
American White Pelican ............................... Pelecanus erythrorhynchos .................. 1:S
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants)
Double-crested Cormorant ............................ Phalacrocorax auritus.......................... 1:S
Ciconiiformes
Ardeidae (Herons)
American Bittern........................................... Botaurus lentiginosus ........................... 1:P
Least Bittern.................................................. Ixobrychus exilis................................... 1:S:R
Great Blue Heron .......................................... Ardea Herodias .................................... 1:P
Great Egret.................................................... Ardea alba ............................................ 1:P
Snowy Egret.................................................. Egretta thula......................................... 1:S
Green Heron.................................................. Butorides virescens............................... 1:S
Black-crowned Night-heron.......................... Nycticorax nycticorax........................... 1:P
Threskiornithidae (Ibises)
White-faced Ibis............................................ Plegadis chihi ....................................... 1:
Anseriformes
Anatidae (Waterfowl)
Tribe Cygnini (Swans)
Tundra Swan ................................................. Cygnus columbianus............................. 1:W
Tribe Anserini (Geese)
Canada Goose ............................................... Branta canadensis ................................ 1:P
Greater White-fronted Goose ........................ Anser albifrons ..................................... 1:M,W
Emperor Goose ............................................. Chen canagica...................................... 1:M:R
Ross’ Goose .................................................. Chen rossii............................................ 1:M:R
Snow Goose .................................................. Chen caerulescens ................................ 1:M,W
Tribe Cairinini (Wood Duck)
Wood Duck ................................................. Aix sponsa............................................. 1:S,M
Tribe Anatini (Surface-feeding Ducks)
Mallard.......................................................... Anas platyrhynchos .............................. 1:P
Gadwall......................................................... Anas strepera........................................ 1:P
Northern Pintail............................................. Anas acuta ............................................ 1:P
American Widgeon ....................................... Anas americana .................................... 1:M,W
Northern Shoveler ......................................... Anas clypeata ....................................... 1:P
Cinnamon Teal.............................................. Anas cyanoptera ................................... 1:S,M
Blue-winged Teal.......................................... Anas discors ......................................... 1:
Lava Beds
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lava Beds National Monument
Amphibians and Reptiles of Lava Beds
Step Carefully
Reptiles
Lava Beds Reptiles
Iquanidae (Fence Lizards)
Anguidae (Glass Lizards)
Scincidae (Skinks)
Boidae (Boas)
Colubridae (Colubrids)
Crotalidae (Rattlesnakes)
Amphibians
Frogs and Toads
Amphibians at Lava
Beds
E X P E R I E N CE Y O U R AM E R I C A
™
Ppla
Lava Beds
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lava Beds National Monument
Plants of Lava Beds
Species List
This list is compiled from our specimens in our museum collections and should not be considered
complete. Collections were made in the 1930’s, 1940’s, 1960’s and 1979. Some plants may no
longer occur here and there may be plants here now that were not when the collections were
made. * Denotes an introduced species.
Pteridaceae
(Brake)
Maidenhair fern .................................................................... Adiantum capillus-veneris
Lace lipfern........................................................................... Cheilanthes gracillima
Goldenback fern ................................................................... Pentagramma triangularis
Amaranthaceae
(Amaranth)
Prostrate amaranth ................................................................ Amaranthus blitoides
Slim amaranth*..................................................................... Amaranthus hybridus
Powell’s amaranth ................................................................ Amaranthus powellii
Redroot amaranth* ............................................................... Amarnathus retroflexus
Apiaceae
(Parsley)
Butte desertparsley ............................................................... Lomatium marginatum
Nevada biscuitroot................................................................ Lomatium nevadense
Nineleaf biscuitroot .............................................................. Lomatium triternatum
Apocynaceae
(Dogbane)
Indian hemp .......................................................................... Apocynum cannabinum
Sacramento waxydogbane .................................................... Cycladenia humilis
Asclepiadaceae
(Milkweed)
Narrow-leaved milkweed...................................................... Asclepias fascicularis
Dryopteridaceae
(Wood Fern)
Brittle bladderfern................................................................. Cystopteris fragilis
Coastal woodfern.................................................................. Dryopteris arguta
Spreading woodfern.............................................................. Dryopteris expansa
Western swordfern................................................................ Polystichum munitum
Oregon clifffern .................................................................... Woodsia oregana
Rocky Mountain woodsia ..................................................... Woodsia scopulina
Asteraceae
(Sunflower)
Common yarrow ................................................................... Achillea millefolium
Western snakeroot ................................................................ Ageratina occidentalis
False dandelion..................................................................... Agoseris glauca lanciniata
Bigflower agoseris................................................................ Agoseris grandiflora
Western ragweed .................................................................. Ambrosia psilostachya
Low pussytoes ...................................................................... Antenneria dimorpha
Pinewoods pussytoes ............................................................ Antennaria geyeri
Littleleaf pussytoes ............................................................... Antennaria microphylla
Rosy pussytoes ..................................................................... Antennaria rosea
Stinking chamomile* ............................................................ Anthemis cotula
Little sagebrush..................................................................... Artemesia arbuscula
Big sagebrush ....................................................................... Artemesia tridentata
Arrowleaf balsamroot ........................................................... Balsamorhiza sagittata
Rough eyelashweed .............................................................. Blepharipappus scaber
Yellow star thistle*............................................................... Centaurea solstitialis
Douglas’ Dustymaiden ......................................................... Chaenactis douglasii
Yellow rabbitbrush ............................................................... Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus viscidiflorus
Canada thistle* ..................................................................... Cirsium arvense
Bull thistle* .......................................................................... Cirsium vulgare
Canadian horseweed ............................................................. Conyza canadensis
Tapertip hawksbeard............................................................. Crepis acuminata
Baker’s hawksbeard.............................................................. Crepis bakeri
Largeflower hawksbeard ...................................................... Crepis occidentalis
Gray doublet ..
Lava Beds
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Lava Beds National Monument
Mammals of Lava Beds
NPS
Badger
Mammals
Squirrels
Lava Beds National Monument has over 50 species of mammals, fourteen of which are bats.
Pay close attention, and you may see them while caving, hiking, or driving the monument’s
roads. This brochure describes and compares a few of the species commonly observed in the
monument. If you are lucky enough to see any of these animals, please share the Monument
with them, but don’t share your lunch!
Belding’s Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus beldingi)
The Belding’s ground squirrel is reddish-brown with a short, slim, black-tipped tail and small
ears. Their seven-to-eight month hibernation period makes them one of the longest-hibernating
mammals in North America, so you are unlikely to see them early or late in the year. Look for
these mammals burrowing in the grasslands at the northern end of the monument and around
Petroglyph Point.
California Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi)
A bushy tail, gray and black coloring, and light gray “shoulder pads,” are characteristics of the
California ground squirrel. You may see them during the day perched on large rocks and
shrubs, or scampering through the brush.
The California ground squirrel has evolved an unusual method for deterring western
rattlesnakes, which are among their main predators. When threatened by a rattlesnake, the
squirrels raise the temperature of their tails and shake them back and forth vigorously.
Rattlesnakes hunt primarily with infrared vision, so this tail signal shows the snake that the
squirrel is well aware of its presence and ready to dodge a strike. The snake will likely leave a
tail-waving squirrel alone in favor of more vulnerable prey.
Rabbits, Pika,
and Hares
Pika (Ochotona princeps)
Slightly larger than a hamster, the pika has short, rounded ears and no visible tail. They can be
found in the rocky areas of the monument such as the lava fields and the areas around caves. In
preparation for winter, pikas make their own hay by collecting summer plants and storing them
beneath the rocks to dry.
Unfortunately, a warming climate may be adversely affecting pikas, and it is a rare treat to see
one in the park. Over 100 sites in Lava Beds are currently being monitored for pikas, so if you
do see one of these elusive creatures during your visit, please inform monument staff.
Mountain Cottontail (Sylvilagus nuttallii)
Pika
Mountain cottontails are often seen nibbling sagebrush plants along roads and in the
campground. They have a color similar to that of pikas, but they tend to be larger with long
hind legs, upright ears, and a fluffy white tail.
Black-tailed Jackrabbit (Lepus californicus)
Much larger than mountain cottontails are black-tailed jackrabbits which are also found
throughout Lava Beds. These rabbits are easily identified by their enormous, upright ears
which they use to stay cool during the hot summers. Jackrabbits can also be distinguished
from mountain cottontails by the black markings on their ears and the upper side of their tails.
Deer and
Pronghorn
Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus)
There are many small herds of mule deer that roam the park, foraging on the shrubs and
herbaceous plants found throughout the monument. During the summer, males can easily be
distinguished from females by their large antlers which they use to fight for mates during the
fall breeding season.
Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana)
Pronghorns are an unusual sight, but they are sometimes seen in the grasslands at the northern
end of the monument. They can be distinguished from mule deer by their smaller size, dark
horns, and the distinct white patches on their bellies and throats. Pronghorn are the fastest land
mammal in the Western Hemisphere, and have been known to run at speeds up to 62 miles per
hour (100 km per hour).
Cats
Bobcat (Lynx rufus)
Territorial and largely solitary, bobcats can occasionally be seen along roadsides as they hunt
for rabbits in the park. These cats are twice the size of a housecat with excellent climbing skills
and sharp hearing. Their coat is gray or brown with black spots, and they have tufted ears and a
round, stubby tail which is the bobcat’s namesake.
Mountain Lion (Felis concolor)
Mountain Lion
Keeping
Track
Due to their shy nature, it is rare to see mountain lions at Lava Beds, but a few do call the
monument home. With plenty of deer for prey, Lava Beds is a perfect habitat for these wild
cats, which are the largest in North America. Their long tail and tawny coat distinguish them
from the smaller bobcat. If you see a mountain lion during your visit, try to be as intimidating
as possible. Shout, wave your arms, and back away slowly. Convince the lion that you are not
prey!
Put your observation skills to the test!
Use the list below to keep track of the mammals you see during your stay at Lava Beds. Stop
by the visitor center to share your finds and to get more information