Craters of the Moon National Monument

Craters of the Moon National Monument, located in central Idaho, is a unique and geologically significant natural area. This spectacular landscape covers about 750,000 acres and is characterized by vast lava fields, volcanic craters, cinder cones, and underground caves.

The national monument is situated in the Snake River Plain, extending from the cities of Arco to Carey. Its formation can be traced back to volcanic eruptions that occurred between 15,000 and 2,000 years ago. As a result, the area is covered in a remarkable layer of hardened lava, creating an otherworldly appearance reminiscent of the moon's surface, hence its name.

Since its establishment by President Calvin Coolidge in 1924, Craters of the Moon National Monument has been a site of scientific interest and public fascination. It preserves a unique ecological community of plants adapted to the harsh lava environment. Additionally, it holds great cultural significance for Native American tribes, who consider parts of the landscape to be sacred.

The national monument offers various activities for visitors to explore and enjoy its distinctive features. A network of hiking trails spreads across the lava fields, providing opportunities for adventurers to immerse themselves in the lunar-like scenery. The famous Tree Molds Trail unveils molds left behind by ancient trees engulfed by lava, allowing visitors to witness the power of these volcanic eruptions.

Furthermore, the caves at Craters of the Moon provide exceptional opportunities for exploration. Visitors can embark on guided tours of caves like Indian Tunnel or Boy Scout Cave, marveling at unique lava formations such as stalactites and cave tubes. It's important to note that advanced spelunking techniques and equipment are required for certain caves and should only be attempted by experienced individuals.

Since its location is somewhat remote, the national monument offers a campground for overnight stays, allowing visitors to experience the area's uniqueness under the starry night sky. Several nearby attractions enhance the Craters of the Moon experience, including the nearby Thousand Springs State Park with its beautiful waterfalls and lush landscapes. The nearby town of Arco, just south of the monument, offers amenities and attractions, such as the Idaho National Laboratory Visitors Center, showcasing the history of nuclear energy development.

Overall, Craters of the Moon National Monument stands as a remarkable testament to the forces of nature and offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to explore stunning lava formations and geologic wonders.

Craters of the Moon National Monument is located in the vast state of Idaho, in the northwestern region of the United States. Situated in the Snake River Plain, this unique and otherworldly landscape sprawls across an expansive 750,000 acres. The monument is positioned at the edge of the Great Rift—a massive volcanic, earthquake-prone belt that stretches across Idaho—making it an astonishing geological marvel. Within this remote location, visitors can wander through a sea of ancient lava flows, dense forests, rugged cinder cones, and surreal volcanic formations, transporting themselves to an eerie and extraterrestrial environment.

Address & Contact

Craters of the Moon National Monument
1266 Craters Loop Road
Arco, ID 83213
Driving Directions
Phone: 2085271300
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Craters of the Moon National Monument is in the months of May, June, and July. During this period, the average maximum temperatures range from 63°F to 85°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is relatively low, varying from 0.3 to 1.4 inches, ensuring drier conditions. These months also attract a high number of visitors, indicating the popularity of this time frame. However, to avoid large crowds, visiting in May or September would be a good choice as they have fewer visitors compared to the peak summer months.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Craters of the Moon National Monument are: Astronomy Stargazing Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Biking Road Biking Camping Backcountry Camping Hiking Backcountry Hiking Skiing Cross-Country Skiing Auto and ATV Scenic Driving Snowshoeing Caving

Topics

Learn about these topics at Craters of the Moon National Monument: Animals Birds Caves, Caverns and Karst Geology Night Sky Native American Heritage Westward Expansion Fire Rock Landscapes and Features Trails Unique Species Wilderness Climate Change Forests and Woodlands Migrations Volcanoes

Visitor Centers

Robert Limbert Visitor Center

When open, stop by the visitor center for maps and the Craters of the Moon Natural History Association bookstore, and of course: your passport stamp!

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Robert Limbert Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Craters of the Moon National Monument

Lava Flow Campground

The Lava Flow Campground is a 42-site campground accessible by automobile from May through November depending on snow conditions. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Some sites will accommodate large RVs, but no hookups are available.
Fees (US$): 15.00 (Campground Fee - Regular Season), 7.50 (Campground Fee - Regular Season (with Senior or Access Pass)), 4.00 (Campground Fee - Shoulder Season (with Senior or Access Pass)), 8.00 (Campground Fee - Shoulder Season), 0.00 (Campground Fee - Winter)
Total Campsites: 42
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Hotels within or near Craters of the Moon National Monument

DK Motel

With a stay at DK Motel in Arco, you'll be a 1-minute walk from Devil Boat and 9 minutes by foot from Bottolfsen Park. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 316 S Front Street, Arco, Idaho 83213
Web: Link

Arco Inn

With a stay at Arco Inn in Arco, you'll be a 4-minute walk from Bottolfsen Park and 11 minutes by foot from Devil Boat. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 540 W Grand Ave, Arco, Idaho 83213
Web: Link