According to volcanologists (the dudes who study volcanoes), lava tubes are created when the surface of the lava flow begins to crust over due to cooling and a channel is formed beneath it, or sometimes the eruption just expels below the surface. I like to think of it like this: The volcano threw up and had the runs all at the same time. I was stoked about the opportunity to crawl through its dark and wet bowels, or something like that. The hardest part about caving is dealing with your own insides, your mental guts. Justin is a big manly man yet he still complained. "All that dirt and rock hanging over my head and the tight spaces freaked me out," he rambled. He then thanked me for making fun of him. "I have never explored this deep into the cave and would never have squeezed through those tight spots if it wasn't for your nagging." Justin ended up climbing into the main chamber until he lost sight of the entrance and then bailed out. Trust me when I say that these lava tubes are amazing, but the thought of them crashing in and trapping us for eternity forced us to keep our caving experience brief.
It's these types of experiences that draw me to all kinds of adventures, like diving, rock climbing and caving. One of the best things about tackling these adventures on an ATV is in addition to a killer ride it can be a means to another activity. "Utah has embraced the ATV community and continues to expand the trail system for ATVs and side-by-sides," Justin said. "It's really cool when the rangers don't see you as an outlaw or undesirable. The scenery is epic up here and there are so many trails to ride on you can get lost easily." No, really, Justin? As I wrapped up my incredible ride through southwestern Utah, I experienced something I've never felt before: satisfaction! I finally satisfied that nagging desire for magma. Even if only for a few minutes.
Best Trails
Trail #1, also known as the Lava Bed Trail, is a classic. Get the newest OHV maps at the Duck Creek ranger station.
A little over an hour away is Bryce Canyon City. This is a very popular area that offers access to over 100 miles of trails. Riders in the area can get information on the trails and area regulations at Ruby's Inn (rubysinnatv.com).