Lava Butte, a crowded tourist destination in the summer, is much quieter in the winter. This details the route to hike, snowshoe, or ski up the butte when the visitor center is closed during the off season.
Style:
Out and Back.
Distance:
3.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:
+/- 500 ft
Trailhead and Permit Notes:
The Visitor Center is closed during the winter, but a secondary parking lot is available. Due to the recent snow, the secondary parking lot was not accessible when I visited. There was room for a few cars outside of the gate. Winter permit situation is unknown. Presumably, if you park in the National Monument lot you should be displaying a pass. Since the facility is closed in the winter you would have to purchase the pass elsewhere. I displayed my National Park America the Beautiful pass.
Camping Tips:
There is no campground at the Visitor Center or near the trailhead for this hike. However, there are six campgrounds within the Newberry Caldera and countless more throughout Deschutes National Forest. Check the resources below for opening dates, fees, and amenities.
Resources:
Useful Guides and Gear:
Topo map and GPX track:
Links
Deschutes National Forest Newberry Caldera National Monument Information page.
