Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
340.00 ft (103.63 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
2.40 mi (3.86 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Big Nasty trail, named for the nearby "big and nasty" lava field, travels through volcanic terrain in the Lava Beds National Monument. Before turning here, take a short, paved path to the first point of interest: Mammoth Crater. Mammoth Crater was the source of about 70% of the lava flow within the monument. As lava poured out of nearby vents, the earth above the crater sank, creating the steep-sided depression you can see today. Two viewpoints with interpretive signs explain the volcanic history at this site.

Continue on the Big Nasty Trail to explore a 2-mile loop with views of the rugged, black lava flow. Contrary to the trail name, the path is actually quite pleasant, following a soft pumice path. Juniper, mountain mahogany and desert shrubs decorate the landscape. Look for colorful moss, lichens and seasonal wildflowers. If you're lucky you may spot deer, pika, jackrabbits or even badger!

After completing the loop, cross the road and follow a 0.2-mile trail to an overlook of Hidden Valley. The trail travels along a cliff edge above the valley. A ponderosa pine forest fills the valley below. Hidden Valley was formed when the roof of an immense lava tube collapsed.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall
Winter

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Park entrance fee

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Short trails. Solitude.

Cons

None.

Trailhead Elevation

5,320.00 ft (1,621.54 m)

Highest point

5,380.00 ft (1,639.82 m)

Features

Family friendly
Wildlife
Geologically significant
Big vistas
Big Game Watching
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Warner Mountains + Modoc Plateau, California
Warner Mountains + Modoc Plateau, California
Lava Beds National Monument

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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