These are some really cool cliffs to check out while driving on Trail Ridge Road. At over 12,000 feet of elevation, the Lava Cliffs are a section of volcanic rock in Rocky Mountain National Park. This area is made up of tuff that was formed by consolidation of volcanic ash from volcanic activity that occurred in the nearby Never Summer Mountain Range millions of years ago. Some glaciers later moved in here and cut open the hillside and revealed these lava cliffs. The cliffs have a hint of red color to them. There are some small glaciers around the cliffs and you can occasionally spot some wildlife perched on the cliffs. The parking lot area is alongside Trail Ridge Road. The Lava Cliffs Overlook is a short drive from the Alpine Visitor Center. The road closes during the winter season because of snow. read more

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After another few miles of driving, and passing through some truly otherworldly scenery, The mountains take on a dramatic new look as we approach Lava Cliffs. It was really windy and chilly up here but a gorgeous spot to stop. you'll get a view of this large wall of solidified volcanic ash, left here around 25 million years ago from a nearby volcanic eruption. This is also near the highest point of Trail Ridge Road, with the summit just a few hundred yards from the Lava Cliffs viewpoint. read more

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