JUNE
Lava Beds National Monument, California
Cave entrance
Heading south from Crater Lake National Park, I came across this national monument. It was a hot day to explore, being 95° out. But the great part was going into the lava tubes, the temperatures were in the mid 50s!
With the helmet and headlamp (plus a backup head lamp), I took a good look at the cave ratings and made sure someone knew where I was. Perfect way to spend the afternoon.
Some of the easier caves were well lit
Some of the caves were lit by outside light from the partial collapse in the ceiling
Some of the caves were completely black, except for the light from the headlamp or a flash from the camera.
Hopkins Chocolate Cave. The ceilings in this cave had extremely low sections where you had to stoop. I decided to avoid the caves which would mean crawling.
Two lights are better than one, especially making your way through a pitch black cave with uneven ground, low ceilings and no outside light.
Next up: Lassen Volcanic National Park