Oregon is full of natural wonders that offer a glimpse into the state’s fascinating history. Eastern Oregon, for example, is home to fossil beds that trace back to prehistoric times. Southern Oregon’s redwood forests boast 300-foot giants that have been around for 800 years! And in central Oregon, Crack-in-the-Ground is an ancient volcanic fissure that’s over two miles long and up to 70 feet deep — and you can hike straight through this unique geological feature on the eponymous 1.7-mile Crack-in-the-Ground Trail.

Christmas Valley is a fascinating spot in central Oregon. It’s a rugged and remote region that’s often overlooked, but it shouldn’t be – because it’s hiding a deep, dark, million-year-old secret.

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This is Oregon’s aptly named “Crack-in-the-Ground,” located at the southwest corner of the area’s Four Craters Lava Field. It’s a two-mile-long volcanic fissure that was created by volcanoes millions of years ago.

Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington/Flickr

And on the Crack-in-the-Ground Trail, adventure seekers can traverse this wild and wondrous below-ground space.

Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington/Flickr

The eponymous trail is just 1.7 miles long and accessible for all skill levels.

Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington/Flickr

Crack-in-the-Ground is as much as 15 feet wide, and as deep as 70 feet below the landscape. The temperature is much cooler down here – up to 20 degrees cooler in some places! – and it’s an otherworldly place to explore.

Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington/Flickr

The walls are surprisingly smooth and well-preserved; they are remnants of another time and place.

Marie Scates/AllTrails

While well-defined, the trail can get a bit tight at times, which is something to keep in mind if you’re claustrophobic.

Laura Lawver/AllTrails

You’ll find some interesting rock formations down here, in this beautiful, below-ground expanse.

Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington/Flickr

The rest of the Four Craters Lava Field is beautiful to explore, too – so don’t be in too big a hurry to leave! This is Oregon’s sublime high desert region, and it’s extraordinary.

Marie Scates/AllTrails

Have you ventured out on the Crack-in-the-Ground Trail before? It’s such a unique trail in Oregon!

Marie Scates/AllTrails

Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington/Flickr

Laura Lawver/AllTrails

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Address: Crack in the Ground, Oregon 97638, USA