Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve 

Pictures courtesy of the -CratersoftheMoonNPS: Craters of the Moon National Monument.

Craters of the Moon National Monument, located in central Idaho, is a surreal landscape of volcanic rock, lava fields, and cinder cones that looks like something from another planet. This unique geological area preserves the remnants of ancient volcanic eruptions that shaped the region thousands of years ago. Visitors can explore its trails, caves, and viewpoints to experience the stark beauty of this volcanic wonderland.

Website:	Craters of the Moon National Monument
Map:	Park Map
Visitor Centers:	Robert Limbert Visitor Center: Located near the entrance, this center provides essential information for visitors, including maps, geology exhibits, and educational displays about the monument’s volcanic history. Rangers are available to answer questions and guide you to the best activities for your visit.
How to get There:	From Boise, Idaho (West): Begin your journey by taking Interstate 84 East out of Boise. After approximately 40 miles, take Exit 95 for US-20 East toward Mountain Home. Continue on US-20 for about 110 miles, passing through scenic small towns and vast stretches of Idaho’s high desert landscape. As you approach Arco, follow signs directing you to Craters of the Moon National Monument, located just 18 miles southwest of the town on US-20/26/93. The drive takes around 3.5 hours in total. From Idaho Falls, Idaho (East): From Idaho Falls, head west on US-20/US-26 for about 65 miles through rich farmland and rolling plains. Pass through the town of Arco, a perfect spot to refuel and grab snacks before continuing west for 18 miles to reach the monument. The drive is roughly 1.5 hours. From Twin Falls, Idaho (South): Start by taking US-93 North out of Twin Falls, traveling through the rugged Snake River Plain for approximately 85 miles. Merge onto US-20/26 near Carey, Idaho, and continue for another 25 miles to reach the monument’s entrance. The journey takes about 2 hours.

Craters of the Moon National Monument, located in central Idaho, is a captivating expanse of volcanic terrain that preserves one of the most extensive basaltic lava fields in the United States. This unique landscape, formed by a series of volcanic eruptions between 15,000 and 2,000 years ago, resembles a lunar surface, inspiring its celestial name. Established in 1924, the monument was initially recognized for its geological importance and its value as a natural laboratory. Today, the site spans over 750,000 acres and offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore volcanic features such as lava tubes, cinder cones, and vast lava flows while marveling at the resilience of life in this rugged environment.

A visit to Craters of the Moon provides a chance to experience its surreal geological formations and natural beauty up close. The Loop Road Scenic Drive is a great starting point, offering convenient access to several key areas of the monument. Highlights include the Inferno Cone, a steep cinder cone with panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, and Devil’s Orchard, a trail showcasing a field of volcanic rocks amidst hardy desert vegetation. Visitors can also venture into the park’s famous lava tubes, such as the Indian Tunnel, which is accessible through a short hike and provides a glimpse into the underground world of cooled lava rivers. The Tree Molds Trail, another must-see, reveals imprints left by ancient trees engulfed by molten lava, demonstrating the power of nature’s forces.

Beyond its fascinating geology, Craters of the Moon National Monument holds deep ecological and cultural significance. The monument’s harsh yet thriving ecosystem is a testament to nature’s adaptability, with plants and animals uniquely suited to survive in this extreme environment. Historically, the site has been used by Indigenous peoples for millennia and later by pioneers navigating the Oregon Trail. It also served as a training ground for Apollo astronauts in the 1960s, preparing them for lunar missions due to its resemblance to the moon’s surface. Visiting Craters of the Moon is more than just exploring a landscape—it’s stepping into a living museum that tells the story of Earth’s volcanic past and its enduring legacy.

Points of Interest:

Inferno Cone: Climbing Inferno Cone offers one of the most rewarding views in the monument. This steep cinder cone provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding volcanic terrain, including other cinder cones and the expansive lava fields. The short but challenging hike to the top is a must-do for its breathtaking scenery.

Indian Tunnel: This large lava tube is one of the monument’s most accessible and family-friendly cave experiences. A short hike leads to this fascinating underground formation, where visitors can explore its cool interior and marvel at the unique textures left behind by flowing lava. Be sure to bring a flashlight for extra exploration.

Devil’s Orchard Trail: This easy interpretive trail takes visitors through a hauntingly beautiful field of volcanic rock formations scattered among hardy desert plants. Along the way, informative signs share insights into the geology and ecology of the park, making it a great stop for learning and photo opportunities.

Tree Molds Trail: This fascinating trail showcases the imprints of ancient trees preserved in hardened lava, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural history. The relatively short hike is both educational and scenic, with opportunities to see how life and volcanic activity intersected in the past.