TORCH TRAIL REVIEW #012 | TABERNACLE HILL LAVA TUBES (FILLMORE, UT)
Ready to explore the “unfinished” landscape of Utah’s West Desert? In this installment of TORCH Trail Reviews, we teamed up with Get Lost Mike (@getlostmike) to navigate a massive volcanic field shaped by lava flows estimated to be nearly 20,000 years old.
Tabernacle Hill isn’t your typical red-rock Utah experience. This is a rugged, lunar-style landscape defined by jagged basalt, collapsed lava tubes, and the infamous Lava Tube Road: a slow, bumpy trail leading to ancient subterranean tunnels carved by flowing magma thousands of years ago.
TRAIL OVERVIEW
Located west of Meadow and Fillmore, Utah, the Tabernacle Hill area is part of the Black Rock Desert volcanic field. The route consists of roughly 8 miles of dirt access from I-15. While the mileage is short, the terrain demands patience due to the sharp and uneven volcanic rock.
The main attraction is the network of lava tubes and collapsed sections scattered throughout the field. In some areas, the Earth’s crust gave way long after the lava cooled, revealing massive hollow tunnels and sink-like openings that drop up to 25 feet below the surface.
THE TERRAIN
The terrain is rated Moderate (4/10), mainly because of the abrasive volcanic rock and constant suspension chatter rather than difficult technical obstacles.
Volcanic Rock: Unlike the smooth sandstone trails found around Moab, the basalt here is sharp, jagged, and hard on tires. Proper tire pressure and careful line choice are critical.
The Lava Tube Road: This trail section is known for its relentless series of lava pockets, embedded rock shelves, and uneven washouts. It’s less about big obstacles and more about maintaining a controlled crawl while your suspension works overtime.
Tube Access: Several narrow side tracks branch off toward the lava tubes themselves. Expect tight sagebrush corridors, uneven rock, and loose footing near the tube entrances. Use caution when parking or walking near collapse zones.
THE EXPERIENCE
Scouting with @getlostmike gave us a firsthand look at one of Utah’s most unique geological trail systems.
Underground Exploration: The highlight of the trip is exploring the lava tubes on foot. Some tunnels stretch hundreds of feet underground and maintain noticeably cooler temperatures than the desert surface, which is a welcome break during warmer months.
Driving Across Lava Flows: One of the wildest parts of Tabernacle Hill is the feeling of driving directly across the ancient volcanic landscape. The terrain feels completely different from the sandstone and slickrock trails Utah is famous for, giving the area an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
TIPS FROM THE SCOUT
Tire Pressure: Airing down helps your tires conform to the jagged basalt and reduces harsh impacts across the lava rock. Sharp edges are common throughout the trail, so carrying a full-size spare is highly recommended.
Bring Proper Lighting: If you plan to explore the lava tubes, bring a quality headlamp or high-output flashlight. Some sections are extremely dark, uneven, and steep near the entrances.
High Clearance Recommended: While portions of the area are accessible to capable stock 4x4s, higher clearance and all-terrain tires make the trail significantly more comfortable and reduce the risk of underbody contact.
SUMMARY STATS
Location: Tabernacle Hill (West of Fillmore, UT)
Difficulty: Moderate (4/10)
Terrain: Jagged volcanic rock, basalt ledges, desert scrub, and lava tube collapses
Distance: ~8 miles from I-15
Rig Recommendation: High-clearance 4x4 recommended, all-terrain tires strongly advised
THE VERDICT
Tabernacle Hill delivers one of the most unique off-road experiences in Utah. Instead of sandstone cliffs and canyon walls, you get miles of fractured lava rock, hidden underground tunnels, and terrain that genuinely feels alien.
It’s not the most technically difficult trail, but the constant roughness, sharp basalt, and remote setting make it a memorable adventure. If you’re looking for a trail that combines geology, exploration, and slow-paced technical driving, Tabernacle Hill deserves a spot on your trail list.
Huge thanks to @getlostmike for leading us on this subterranean mission! Head to his channel for more Utah trail videos.
Can your rig handle jagged volcanic rock? Check out our Suspension Lift Kits to ensure you've got the clearance needed for Lava Tube Road.
Want your local trail featured? Leave a comment or tag us @torchoffroad and show us where you're wheeling! -TORCH
