Craters of the Moon: Everything You Need to Know

The Craters of the Moon formed over the course of eight major eruptive periods, spanning from 15,000 to 2,000 years ago. Lava emanated from the Great Rift, a series of deep fissures stretching 52 miles southeast. During this time, the Craters of the Moon lava field grew to cover 618 square miles. The smaller Wapi and Kings Bowl lava fields also emerged along the Great Rift during the most recent eruption phase, approximately 2,000 years ago.

The forthcoming eruptive period is anticipated to occur in the central section of the Great Rift within the Craters of the Moon Lava Field. Historical patterns suggest that the lava flow will likely be relatively gentle, yielding extensive lava flows. However, eruptions from possible vents in the northern area of the Great Rift could be more violent, generating considerable airfall debris, destroying existing cinder cones, and forming new ones. In the meantime, continuous yet subtle transformations are shaping the geology of Craters of the Moon, influenced by gravity, weather, and other natural factors impacting this volcanic terrain.

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Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Prior to its designation as a National Monument, the Snake River Plain was inhabited by humans towards the end of the last Ice Age, around 12,000 to 14,000 years ago. The native inhabitants, primarily the Shoshone and Bannock tribes and their ancestors, frequently traversed the Craters of the Moon’s lava fields. The Shoshone settled in the upper Columbia River Basin, an area also inhabited by the Bannock. Both tribes coexisted on the Snake River Plain, mingling, traveling, and hunting together in harmony, overcoming language differences. It is likely that they observed volcanic activity in the region.

A century ago, Craters of the Moon was designated a National Monument thanks to Robert Limbert. Limbert vividly recounted his explorations in a series of photo essays published in newspapers and magazines. His most notable work was a 1924 National Geographic article titled “Among the ‘Craters of the Moon’.” Additionally, Limbert presented then President Calvin Coolidge with a scrapbook filled with photographs and narratives of his journeys along the Great Rift. Merely two months following the publication of the article, Coolidge signed a proclamation that officially established Craters of the Moon as a National Monument. The formal dedication ceremony took place on June 15, 1924.

Since its inauguration, Craters of the Moon has served as a training ground for some of America’s most distinguished astronauts preparing for lunar missions. The training initiated in 1969 was a tactical decision by NASA to provide Apollo astronauts with geological expertise. Over the past fifty years, NASA has employed the Craters of the Moon National Monument as a research site, studying its geological and biological characteristics to gain a better understanding of Earth and support the exploration of other celestial bodies.

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Entrance and Visitor Center

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve has a single entrance. Situated on U.S. Highway 20/26/93, this is where you’ll find the entrance, visitor center, and the loop road. Neither the visitor center nor the loop road can be reached by unpaved roads. Digital navigation systems may be unreliable, often directing visitors onto unpaved roads leading to remote, undeveloped parts of the park. To avoid this, set your navigation apps or devices to the Robert Limbert Visitor Center.

The park’s entrance is located 24 miles northeast of Carey, Idaho, and 18 miles southwest of Arco, Idaho. Look out for highway signs indicating the park boundary and the turnoff onto the park road. The Visitor Center is located before the park’s entrance gate. If you intend to explore the park’s caves, you must first visit the visitor center to obtain a caving permit.

Best Way to Get Around the Park

To reach Craters of the Moon by air, the closest airports are in Hailey, Idaho (60 miles), Idaho Falls, Idaho (84 miles), and Twin Falls, Idaho (90 miles). The most convenient way to explore the park is by personal or rental car. The loop road within Craters of the Moon is paved and suitable for most vehicles, including RVs. RV parking can be found at the Robert Limbert Visitor Center, and additional large RV spaces are available at key overlooks and trailheads such as North Crater, Devil’s Orchard, Inferno Cone, Spatter Cones, Tree Molds, and the Caves Area.

Hiking Trails at Craters of the Moon

Hiking Trails

Craters of the Moon offers numerous hiking trails. Pets are not allowed on these trails. Many trailheads provide restrooms, but water stations are absent along the loop road. The area is characterized by a hot, dry, and high-elevation landscape. It’s essential to bring water to remain hydrated. Traveling off-trail is dangerous and forbidden in several areas. Additionally, it’s crucial to consider the air quality in the region. On our visit, the air quality was affected by multiple fires in the vicinity, which limited us to only short hikes.

Trail	Length	Accessibility	Attractions
North Crater Flow Trail	0.3-mile loop	Paved, accessible boardwalk	Trail suspended over the youngest lava
North Crater Trail	3.6 miles round trip	Strenuous, steep	Big Craters and North Crater
Devil’s Orchard Nature Trail	0.5-mile loop	Paved, wheelchair accessible	Cinders and scattered islands of lava
Inferno Cone	0.4-mile round trip	Steep, non-paved	360-degree view of Big Cinder Butte and the Great Rift
Spatter Cones and Snow Cone	less than 0.1-miles	Paved, Snow Cone path is wheelchair accessible	Peer inside vents of mini volcanoes
Tree Molds Trail	2 miles round trip	Elevation gains 108 feet	Imprints of ancient, lava-charred trees
Broken Top Loop Trail	1.8 miles round trip	Elevation gains 242 feet	Observe nearly every type of volcanic feature characteristic in the park
Wilderness Trail	8 miles round trip	Backcountry permits required for overnight use	Follows the Great Rift south
Caves Area	1.6 miles round trip to access the caves	A free permit is required to enter any cave. A flashlight, closed-toed shoes and protective headwear are strongly recommended.	Explore unique lava tube caves

Find more trails at AllTrails

Scenic Drive

The Craters of the Moon Loop Road offers a 7-mile scenic drive featuring information, camping, hiking, and sightseeing opportunities. Most of the park’s trails and attractions are accessible via the Loop Road. During the winter, this road typically closes due to winter snow from mid-November to mid-April.

Activities at Crater of the Moon

Stargazing

The night sky is one of the most breathtaking sights and well-kept secrets of the park. Craters of the Moon lies in one of the darkest regions of the continental United States. Its remoteness from large urban centers and the expansive undeveloped wilderness ensures that on a clear night, viewing the stars is effortless for most visitors.

In 2017, Craters received certification as an International Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International. Stargazing is best approximately 1.5 to 2 hours after sunset, with the Milky Way becoming visible around 2 hours post-sunset. Popular stargazing spots include Devil’s Orchard, Inferno Cone, and the Spatter Cones. Camping is permitted solely in the Lava Flow Campground or in the backcountry with a permit. The rough and uneven terrain, coupled with the risk of disorientation, makes night hiking on the trails not recommended.

Backcountry Camping

Another one of the best-kept secrets is that less than 100 visitors secure a backcountry permit for the Craters of the Moon Wilderness annually, offering a unique opportunity for tranquility, solitude, and stargazing. Permits are free and available at the visitor center. A permit is required for all overnight excursions into the wilderness. The rules for backcountry camping in the park include:

• Groups are limited to 8 people.

• No wood fires are allowed. Backpacking stoves for cooking are acceptable.

• Bicycles and other mechanized equipment are not allowed.

• Pets are not allowed on any hiking trails.

• Camping is not permitted within one mile of the Tree Molds trailhead.

Skiing and Snowshoeing

Winter in Craters of the Moon begins as early as November and extends through March. The Loop Road usually closes to motorized vehicles from mid-November to mid-April to allow for a solid snowpack and grooming for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Craters of the Moon Programs

Junior Ranger Program:

Junior Ranger booklets can be obtained at the visitor center. There are three levels available to acquire a badge:

• Butterfly Level: Three activities
• Clark’s Nutcracker Level: Six activities
• Pronghorn Level: All activities

Craters of the Moon provides the Little Lunar Ranger book as an alternative for those who might find the activities in the Junior Ranger Guidebook too challenging.

Astronomy Program

Every summer, the park provides evening activities at the campground, featuring astronomy sessions and constellation tours. These events typically take place from July to September, depending on staff availability. The programs are open for non-campers as well!

Star Party

Visitors have the opportunity to participate in a Star Party, which takes place every summer and fall. The Pocatello Astronomical Society, along with other volunteers, offer telescopes and expertise in sky viewing. These Star Parties are well-attended, free events, so parking may be limited.

For information on activities and events, check the park’s event calendar.

Lodging near Craters of the Moon

Arco is the nearest town to Craters of the Moon, located about 18 miles to the southwest. The park is also 24 miles from Carey, Idaho. Both towns provide a selection of family-owned hotels and motels. The nearest cities to the park are Idaho Falls, 86 miles to the east, and Twin Falls, 90 miles to the southwest. The park has its own campground, and additional camping is available outside the monument in Sawtooth National Forest. During our visit, we lodged at Willow Bay Resort in American Falls, Idaho, which is 122 miles from the park.

Campgrounds at Craters of the Moon

The Lava Flow Campground is the sole campground within Craters of the Moon, offering 42 sites from May to November on a first-come, first-served basis. Although some sites can accommodate large RVs, there are no electrical or water hookups. The site lacks a dump station and has no cell phone or internet service. Potable water and flush toilets are available seasonally, but shower facilities are not provided.

Dangers in Craters of the Moon

Caves

Lava tubes are characterized by uneven terrain, low ceilings, and loose, sharp rocks. Remarkably, ice can persist in these caves even during the heat of summer. Inadequate lighting can pose additional risks. Therefore, it is recommended to carry a flashlight and wear closed-toe shoes when venturing into the caves.

Reptiles

Both the venomous Western and Prairie rattlesnakes can be found at Craters of the Moon. If encountered, it’s best to give them plenty of space.

Weather

At Craters of the Moon, extreme heat during summer and bitter cold in winter are typical. Lightning poses a risk across the exposed lava fields. It’s important to stay vigilant for severe weather conditions. Additionally, strong winds are a frequent occurrence throughout the year.

Important Information and Regulations

Taking Rocks: Taking rocks, bones, flowers or any other items from Craters of the Moon is illegal. Leave all natural objects where you find them.

Drones: Drone usage within the park is prohibited.

Firearms: It is legal to possess firearms in the park. It is the responsibility of all visitors to understand and comply with all firearms laws and regulations before entering the park.

Pets: Pets are not permitted on any of the trails.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Although presently dormant, Craters of the Moon is expected to reactivate in the future. Historical data indicates that the lava flows will probably be mild, resulting in widespread lava fields, yet potential vent eruptions may be more explosive. Ongoing, gradual changes are constantly sculpting the landscape of Craters of the Moon, as it is affected by gravity, climate, and other natural forces that shape this volcanic region. With its rich history, it serves as an ideal exploration site for both novices and seasoned adventurers alike. It is a destination that beckons everyone from the merely curious to NASA scientists.

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