Craters of the Moon National Monument
The Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is a 750,000-acre geologic wonderland. Its central feature is the Great Rift, a 52-mile long crack in the Earth's crust. The Great Rift is a remarkably preserved volcanic landscape. Exposed fissures, lava fields, lava tubes, craters and cinder cones form a strangely beautiful volcanic sea on central Idaho's Snake River Plain. This landscape was formed by eruptions that started 15,000 years ago and represents the last period of volcanic activity in this area. The most recent activity occurred just 2,100 years ago, and is likely to continue. Craters of the Moon offers countless opportunities for hiking, camping, cross-country skiing, wildlife viewing and backcountry travel. For casual travelers the seven-mile Loop Road and trails in the National Park Service Monument provide easy access to this weird and scenic landscape. A network of primitive roads in the BLM backcountry offer driving and exploration opportunities for motorists with high-clearance, 4-wheel-drive vehicles.
Entrance Fees
PER VEHICLE | PER MOTORCYCLE | PER PERSON |
|---|---|---|
$20 | $15 | $10 |
Vehicles include RV's and vehicle towed by RV. If arriving with a tour or bus/public transportation you will pay per-person fee.
Save money on entrance fees with an annual pass.
Covers entrance fees for you and your passengers or up to 4 adults (age 16+) at per-person sites.
Resources for your trip
Getting There
18 miles southwest of Arco, Idaho on Highway 20/26/93, 24 miles northeast of Carey, Idaho on Highway 20/26/93, 84 miles from Idaho Falls, and 90 miles from Twin Falls.