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A close-up shot of a folded, waving sea of lava rock, with mountains in the far distance.
Destinations › … › United States › Idaho

Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve

warningCaution2 warnings calendar_monthMay–Jun, Sep–Octbest time schedule2 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$10entry
Craters Of The Moon National Monument & PreserveYour own route Plan a trip here →
Caution Navigation

Please do not rely upon GPS digital navigation systems to find your way to Craters of the Moon. Please note that the Robert Limbert Visitor Center at 1266 Craters Loop Road is located just off U.S. Highway 20/26/93 and is not accessed via any unpaved roads. Details open_in_new

Information Craters of the Moon Bookstore CLOSED on September 30

The Craters of the Moon bookstore and museum will be CLOSED on September 30, 2026 due to inventory. Rangers will still be available for cave permits, information, and Junior Ranger activities. Please plan accordingly.

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is a unique volcanic landscape in Idaho, characterized by its vast lava fields, cinder cones, and rugged terrain. Many travelers come to explore the otherworldly scenery and learn about the geological processes that shaped this area.

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Visitors can hike various trails, observe wildlife, and appreciate the stark beauty of the landscape. The site also offers a glimpse into the region's volcanic history, making it a fascinating stop for nature enthusiasts and geology buffs alike.

In pictures

Small purple flowers and larger white flowers with reddish stems grow out of black volcanic rock
Small purple flowers and larger white flowers with reddish stems grow out of black volcanic rock

Things to do

Visit Craters in Winter
Winter

Tour a lava wonderland blanketed in snow. Winter visitors can enjoy skiing the groomed park road or venture in...
Hike Devils Orchard
30-45 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Enjoy an easy, 0.5 mile walk through an open limber pine woodland.
Become a Craters Junior Ranger
15-30 Minutes

Earn your Junior Ranger badge for Craters of the Moon while learning about the park by completing this fun act...
Visit the Spatter Cones
10-15 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Take a short walk to view some of the park's mini-volcanoes up close and personal.
Explore a Cave
60-90 Minutes · Summer/Fall

Explore Craters' dynamic underground world of lava tubes.
Stargazing at Craters of the Moon

See the night sky like never before! The natural darkness of Craters of the Moon lends to superior stargazing...
Backpack the Craters of the Moon Wilderness
Winter/Spring

Immerse yourself in the solitude of the Craters of the Moon Wilderness.
Hike the North Crater Trail
90-120 Minutes · Spring/Summer

This strenuous 3.5-mile trail drops into the mouth of North Crater.
Hike Broken Top Loop
60-90 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Find a variety of unique volcanic features on this moderate-difficulty 1.8 mile loop.
Hike Up Inferno Cone
30-45 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Climb a short but very steep trail to the top of a volcanic cone for awe-inspiring views.
Hike the Tree Molds Trail
60-90 Minutes · Spring/Summer

This 2-mile trail winds through the Craters of the Moon Wilderness and features molds of ancient trees encased...

Practical

At a glance

Opened
1924
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Price
Per Person $10, Motorcycle $15, Private Vehicle $20
Accessibility
some trails accessible
Address
Craters of the Moon National Monument, Arco, ID 83213
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
2085271300
Price
~$10
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect limited cell service in the area.
Bring plenty of water, especially in summer months.
Check for seasonal road closures before visiting.
Wear sturdy shoes for hiking on uneven terrain.

Photo: NPS / David Hunter