Guided Snowmobile Tours: Newberry Volcanic Monument

Two hours on a snowmobile through volcanic terrain, lava flows, and mountain views

A two-hour guided snowmobile tour through Oregon's Newberry National Volcanic Monument takes you across trails suited to all skill levels, with stops at Paulina Falls, the Big Obsidian Flow, and views of Paulina Peak and East Lake. You ride a snowmobile with helmet and goggles provided. An English-speaking guide leads the route and chooses stops based on snow and weather. Choose between riding solo or as a passenger on a double-rider machine at checkout.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Newberry Volcanic Monument

• Visit Paulina Falls waterfall
• See Big Obsidian Lava Flow
• Explore Newberry National Volcanic Monument
• Reach Paulina Peak summit

The experience

You start on a snowmobile in the heart of Central Oregon's volcanic landscape, where the Newberry Volcano (a 7,989-foot shield volcano and the largest in the Cascade Range) dominates the terrain. The guide leads you across varied trails through the caldera, mixing open snow fields with forested passages. Paulina Falls drops into view as one stop. The Big Obsidian Flow, a jagged black lava field erupted roughly 1,300 years ago, sits stark against the white snow. Weather permitting, the route can reach Paulina Peak, the monument's highest point, or take you past East Lake and Paulina Lake nestled in the volcanic basin.

The two-hour pace means you cover ground without rushing, and the guide adjusts the route based on trail conditions and what the snow reveals that day. Helmet and goggles come with the machine. Trails exist for all rider abilities, so whether you've ridden before or this is your first time, the guide picks a path that fits. You'll want to dress for winter riding (bring or wear snow clothes as you would for skiing), since the monument sits at elevation and the wind moves across open terrain.

What’s included

• Snowmobile and helmet with goggles.
• English-speaking guide leading the route.
• access to trails throughout the Newberry National Volcanic Monument with stops at Paulina Falls, the Big Obsidian Flow, and views of Paulina Peak and East Lake.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 5 Mar 2027

Book up to1d before

GroupUp to 6 · max 1 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Octane Adventures

Is this one for you?Choose the single-rider option if you want to control your own machine and navigate the trails yourself. Pick the double-rider if you prefer to sit as a passenger and let the guide handle the driving while you focus on the scenery and the ride.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What's the Big Obsidian Flow, and will we stop there?

The Big Obsidian Flow is a field of black glassy volcanic rock formed roughly 1,300 years ago. It's a regular stop on the tour when snow covers the ground, creating a stark contrast between the dark jagged lava and white snow. The guide includes it as part of the route unless weather or trail conditions prevent it.

Can I ride alone, or do I have to share the snowmobile?

You choose at checkout: a single-rider snowmobile lets you operate your own machine, or a double-rider option puts you as a passenger with the guide driving. Both options cover the same route and stops.

How high does the tour go, and will we reach the summit?

Paulina Peak, the highest point in the monument, sits at the top of the caldera. Weather permitting, the guide can lead you toward the summit as part of the two-hour route, though snow and visibility may limit how far up the tour goes on any given day.

What's included with the tour, and what do I need to bring?

The snowmobile, helmet, and goggles are provided. You need to bring or wear your own snow clothes: dress as you would for skiing, since you'll be riding in winter conditions at elevation. Food and beverages are not included if the tour visits the Paulina Lake Lodge.

Is this tour safe for someone who's never ridden a snowmobile before?

Trails are designed for all skill levels and rider abilities. The guide leads the route and can adjust the pace and terrain to match your experience. If you have spinal injuries, are pregnant, or have cardiovascular concerns, check with the operator before booking, as the vibration and physical demands of snowmobile riding may not be suitable.