Why go
Hardly any place in the USA looks as extraordinary as the Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve. Instead of green forests and snow-covered mountains, a bizarre volcanic landscape of solidified lava streams, ash cones and black rock formations awaits you here. Those who visit the region for the first time often have the feeling that they landed on another planet.
The landscape was created by numerous volcanic eruptions during the last 15,000 years. Even today, geological history is visible at every corner. Extensive lava fields, caves and craters alternate with surprisingly diverse flora.
Despite its uniqueness, the Craters of the Moon National Monument is often underestimated. That's why it is one of the most exciting stops on an Idaho tour for us.
At a glance
Category | Information
Establishment | 1924
Status | National Monument & Preserve
Altitude | Approx. 1'800 m
Ideal stay | 1–2 days
Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.
Landscape | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Geology | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Loop Road
The 11 km long circular road leads to the main attractions of the park.
On the way you'll be waiting:
Lava fields
Volcanic cones
Viewpoints
Hiking trails
Lava caves
Parking and information boards are available at almost every station.
RV tip
The Loop Road is easily accessible with mobile homes. For larger Fifth Wheels, however, it is recommended to leave the team on the campground and explore the round with the pickup truck.
Inferno Cone
The short ascent to the black slag cone is one of the highlights of the park.
Distance: about 1 km
Duration: 20–30 minutes
Difficulty: easy
From the summit there is an impressive panoramic view over the entire volcanic landscape.
Photo Tip
In the late afternoon, the deep sun and long shadows provide particularly impressive photos.
Devils Orchard
Between the cooled lava fields, surprisingly many plants grow.
A short circular path explains how nature slowly reclaimed after the volcanic eruptions.
Spatter Cones
These small volcanic cones were created by splashing lava.
Through wooden bridges you reach several viewpoints with a view into the craters.
Lava Tubes
The most exciting experiences include the walk-in lava caves.
Known caves are:
Indian Tunnel
Dewdrop Cave
Boy Scout Cave
Beauty Cave
A flashlight is required for some caves.
Insider tip
Even on hot summer days, temperatures in the lava caves are close to freezing point. A warm jacket is worth it.
North Crater Trail
A varied hike through cooled lava fields to the edge of a volcanic crater.
Distance: approx. 5.5 km
Duration: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: medium
Tree Molds Trail
A short hike to the prints of former trees that were surrounded by lava.
A fascinating insight into the history of the landscape.
Watching the Starry Sky
The Craters of the Moon National Monument is a certified Dark Sky Park.
After sunset, one of the most impressive stars in North America awaits you.
Photo Tip
At Neumond, the Milky Way with its naked eye is excellently visible.
Shopping
Within the park there are no major shopping opportunities.
Food and fuel you should already in:
Arco
Carey
Blackfoot
- I'm not sure.
In the Visitor Center you will receive:
souvenirs
Cards
Books
Beverages
Smaller snacks
Food & drink
There are no restaurants within the National Monument.
Recommended are:
Pickle's Place (Arco)
Famous for:
Burger
Frances
Milkshakes
A popular stop before or after the park visit.
Mountain View Restaurant (Arco)
Classic American cuisine with generous portions.
Lava Flow Campground
The only campsite within the park.
Benefits:
Beautiful location
Large pitches
immediate proximity to the hiking trails
However, there are:
No electricity
No showers
No Full Hook-ups
Mountain View RV Park (Arco)
Comfortable RV park with full hook-up.
Ideal for large Fifth Wheels.
Good Sam RV Park (Arco)
Practical starting point for visiting the park.
RV tip
Plan your visit as early as possible in the morning or later afternoon. The black lava fields store a lot of heat during the day and can heat up strongly in summer.
Insider tip
Many visitors spend only a few hours in the park. Those who stay until sunset and then experience the starry sky discover a completely different side of this fascinating landscape.
Photo Tip
The combination of black lava, blue sky and the red volcanic cones ensures particularly contrasting images.
Avoid frequent errors
Take enough drinking water with you – there is hardly any shade.
Wear firm footwear, as the lava is very sharp-edged.
Don't forget a flashlight for the lava caves.
Plan enough time – the short hiking tours quickly add up to an entire day.
Our recommendation
The Craters of the Moon National Monument is one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the West of the USA. Nowhere else in Idaho you will experience such a fascinating volcanic landscape with walk-in lava caves, black lava fields and impressive craters.