We spent the entire day exploring the Lava Beds National Monument, a land of turmoil, both geological and historical. Over the last half-million years, volcanic eruptions on the Medicine Lake shield volcano have created a rugged landscape dotted with diverse volcanic features. What surprised us the most was the beauty found within the harshness.

The beauty we found delighted and surprised. Who would have thought the Land of Burnt-out Fires could be so spectacular.