Riding the Bones of a Volcano: Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Drive, ride, or roar across a living volcano—guided snowmobiles and RZR trails reveal Newberry’s caldera and obsidian fields.
A winter wind pushes across Paulina Lake like a question—sharp, clean, and impossible to ignore. You step from a string of snowmobiles into a bowl of blue sky, the rim of the Newberry caldera folding up around you like a natural amphitheater. Black glass (obsidian) shards glitter from a nearby flow; a guide points toward a distant rise and says, matter-of-factly, "If the weather holds, we can see all the way to the Sisters." The machine beneath you is a tool and a passport, letting you thread across pumice and old lava, along ridgelines that earned the name "shield volcano" for being broad, low, and stubbornly massive.
Trail Wisdom
Dress in layers for temperature swings
Elevation and exposure change fast—pack a warm mid-layer and shell even on sunny days.
Bring eye protection
Obsidian glare and pumice dust make sunglasses or goggles essential, especially on RZR and snowmobile tours.
Hydrate and snack frequently
High desert air and wind dehydrate quickly—carry extra water and salty snacks for energy.
Follow guide briefings and stay with the group
Routes cross fragile volcanic ground and abrupt drop-offs—guides know the safest lines and lookout points.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunrise from Paulina Peak (fewer crowds and crisp light)
- •East Lake shoreline walk—quiet fishing coves and basalt outcrops
Wildlife
Mule deer, Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Motorized tours are routed to minimize impact, and visitors are asked to stay on designated trails—obsidian and pumice surfaces recover slowly from off-trail damage.
Newberry Monument was designated in 1990 to protect the volcanic features and surrounding landscape; the area also holds long-standing significance for local Native American tribes.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: early wildflower displays, late-season snowmobiling in higher basins
Challenges: unpredictable snowmelt, muddy or soft trails
Spring can be a mix of snow and thaw—expect changing conditions and the chance to catch both snowy vistas and emerging green.
summer
Best for: RZR lava runs, fishing and shoreline walks
Challenges: dust, strong sun, higher day-use crowds
Summer offers the most stable driving conditions, warm days, and clear views—ideal for off-road tours and lakeside exploration.
fall
Best for: quieter trails, crisp panoramas at sunset
Challenges: shortening daylight, cool nights
Fall brings fewer people and sharp light—great for photography and off-peak guided runs, but bring warm layers.
winter
Best for: guided snowmobile tours, snow-blanketed solitude
Challenges: cold, wind, and variable avalanche conditions in some areas
Winter turns Newberry into a white playground best accessed by guided snowmobiles; pack for sub-freezing conditions and limited services.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Layered clothing (base, insulating, shell)Essential
Protects against wind and rapid temperature swings at elevation.
Goggles or wraparound sunglassesEssential
Shields eyes from obsidian glare, dust, and wind while riding.
Sturdy boots with gripEssential
Useful for short hikes over rocky obsidian or for stepping on icy patches.
Water and high-energy snacksEssential
Maintains energy and hydration in high-desert conditions.
Common Questions
Do I need prior snowmobile experience to join a guided tour?
No—guided tours are suitable for beginners; operators provide a safety briefing and basic instruction before you ride.
Are RZR tours appropriate for children?
Many operators permit children as passengers; age and seating restrictions vary, especially for driver seats—check the operator’s policy when booking.
Can guided tours reach the summit of Newberry Volcano?
Weather and snow conditions dictate access; some 4-hour snowmobile tours may reach summit-adjacent viewpoints when conditions allow.
Is the Big Obsidian Flow dangerous to walk on?
The obsidian surface can be sharp and uneven—wear sturdy footwear and stay on designated routes or follow your guide’s directions.
Do I need permits to visit Newberry National Volcanic Monument?
No general permit is required for day visits, but commercial operators run guided trips with their own permits—check for seasonal closures or fishing licenses.
How is cell service in the Monument?
Service is limited in many parts; rely on guides, download maps offline, and inform someone in Bend of your plans.
What to Pack
Warm layers (for wind and elevation), goggles or sunglasses (dust and glare protection), sturdy boots (obsidian and trail terrain), water and snacks (high-desert dehydration).
Did You Know
The Big Obsidian Flow at Newberry erupted about 1,300 years ago, producing one of the youngest and most accessible obsidian flows in the continental United States.
Quick Travel Tips
Book guided tours in advance during peak seasons; confirm pickup or meeting points in Bend; bring cash or card for local fees; check road and weather conditions before departing.
Local Flavor
Bend’s craft-beer scene and outdoor-oriented cuisine pair well with a day at Newberry—refuel with local bison or trout dishes, and consider a post-ride pint to swap route notes with fellow adventurers.
Logistics Snapshot
From Bend: 30–60 minute drive; best reached by guided operators or high-clearance vehicle in summer; parking at trailheads is limited; cell service patchy; book tours ahead for weekends.
Sustainability Note
Choose operators that prioritize established routes, respect seasonal wildlife closures, and practice leave-no-trace—fragile volcanic soils and obsidian outcrops take decades to recover from disturbance.