Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
California
Siskiyou County

Lyons Trail

Moderate

4.7

(4597)

10,997

hikers

Lyons Trail

03:04

12.0km

50m

Hiking

The Lyons Trail offers a distinctive hiking experience through the rugged, exposed terrain of Lava Beds National Monument. You'll navigate rough lava flows and discover numerous collapsed lava tubes and skylights, particularly around the Modoc Lava Tube System, all beneath expansive open skies. This 7.4 miles (12.0 km) route, with…

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

3.35 km

Fern Cave

Highlight • Cave

Walking across the unshaded scrubland, it's hard to believe there are lush landscapes in the lava tubes just underground. Take a short spur off of Lyons Trail to see down …

Tip by

2

6.11 km

Juniper Butte

Highlight • Summit

Climb atop Juniper Butte for an expansive view of this unique landscape.

Parts of the butte are composed of the same type of rock, called tuff, that is found at …

Tip by

B

12.0 km

End point

Parking

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

11.2 km

566 m

142 m

Surfaces

11.2 km

566 m

142 m

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Weather

Powered by Foreca

Tuesday 7 July

32°C

13°C

-- %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: -- km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

guide_signup

Want to know more?

Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.

Sign up for free

This route was planned by komoot.

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Print

Share

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Report restricted access

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike the Lyons Trail?

The Lyons Trail, as mapped on komoot, is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) long and typically takes around 3 hours to complete. Keep in mind that this is a point-to-point trail, so you'll need to arrange transportation at the end.

What is the terrain like on this trail?

The terrain on the Lyons Trail in Lava Beds National Monument is quite varied. You can expect sections of gravel road, single-track paths, and some abandoned rough roads. It offers a diverse hiking experience with amazing views along the way.

Is the Lyons Trail suitable for beginners?

Rated as moderate, the Lyons Trail is generally suitable for hikers with some experience. While it's not overly strenuous with an elevation gain of about 46 meters, its length and varied terrain mean it's a good step up from very easy walks.

What can I see along the route?

As you hike the Lyons Trail, you'll encounter some interesting natural features. Keep an eye out for Fern Cave and the prominent Juniper Butte, both offering unique sights within the landscape.

What is the best time of year to hike the Lyons Trail?

Lava Beds National Monument can experience extreme temperatures. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder weather. Summer can be very hot, and winter may bring cold temperatures and snow, making some sections challenging.

Are dogs allowed on the Lyons Trail?

No, pets are generally not permitted on trails within Lava Beds National Monument, including the Lyons Trail, to protect wildlife and natural resources. Service animals are an exception.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Lava Beds National Monument?

Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Lava Beds National Monument. This fee covers all visitors in a private vehicle for seven days. Specific permits may be required for certain activities, but a general hiking permit is not typically needed for day hikes like the Lyons Trail.

Where does the Lyons Trail start, and is there parking?

The Lyons Trail is a point-to-point route. You'll need to consult a park map or the komoot tour details for the specific trailhead locations. Parking is available at designated areas within Lava Beds National Monument, but ensure you plan for transportation at the end of this linear trail.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

The Lyons Trail itself is the primary path for this route. The komoot tour largely follows sections of the official "Lyons Trail" within Lava Beds National Monument.

What should I bring for a hike on the Lyons Trail?

Given the trail's length and the desert environment of Lava Beds National Monument, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sturdy hiking shoes, and snacks. A map and compass or GPS device are also recommended, as cell service can be unreliable.

Is the Lyons Trail a loop or out-and-back?

The Lyons Trail in Lava Beds National Monument is a point-to-point trail, meaning it starts at one location and ends at another. You will need to arrange for transportation to pick you up at the end or shuttle a vehicle.

Nearby routes

Easy

1

Sentinel Cave Loop

00:15h

912m

0m

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy