June 11 - A good area to visit

We woke up to rain and it continued all day. After breakfast we drove 20mi to explore Grace. We found the lava tube that early settlers used as a refrigerator. Its dimensions were impressive. We forgot flashlights so were unable to explore far into the tube. There were still ice patches on the floor. We discovered a pretty canyon that has cut deep into a lava flow. After following an irrigation canal we found where it emerged from a tunnel cut through a hill of solid basalt. This canal saved the farming community during the 1910’s.
We returned to Hot Lave Springs anticipating some fun rides on the slides, only to discover the outdoor pool was closed due to the weather. Mike and Rob took their chances at a spot along the rivers edge where a hot spring feeds into the water. The river is very full due to the vast amounts of rain and tubing has been banned. I opted for the more sedate hot spring pools and convinced the boys to join me there. The water is very hot (112F). Our campground is just across the street from the springs, so we went there at 10pm to warm up before jumping into bed. The town is really quiet late at night and it is wonderful to hear the river just outside the camper.