EXTRAORDINARY LANDSCAPES. ENDURING STORIES.

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

Lava flows & otherworldly terrain
Idaho
Scenic header: Craters of the Moon features the largest young lava field in the lower 48 states, encompassing the entire Great Rift volcanic zone. · NPS / David Hunter · Photo credits
TAKE TIME TO DISCOVER

Lava flows & otherworldly terrain

Dark lava fields, cinder cones and scattered vegetation create one of the West’s most striking volcanic landscapes. Short walks reveal textures and shapes easily missed from the road.

A close-up shot of a folded, waving sea of lava rock, with mountains in the far distance.
Craters of the Moon features the largest young lava field in the lower 48 states, encompassing the entire Great Rift volcanic zone.
NPS / David Hunter · Photo credits
Small purple flowers and larger white flowers with reddish stems grow out of black volcanic rock
Spectacular floral displays occur at Craters each spring, including this dwarf monkeyflower and bitterroot.
NPS / David Hunter · Photo credits
BUILD A MEMORABLE VISIT

What to explore

  • 01Loop Road
  • 02Inferno Cone area
  • 03Lava-flow trails

Before you go

Check seasonal road access and cave-permit rules. Protect caves by following current white-nose-syndrome guidance.

Give the place time

Choose a manageable walk, viewpoint or tour, and allow time for interpretation. Gateway areas help orient the visit; they are not exact entrance directions.

Make the details easy

Confirm the specific facilities, walking surfaces and vehicle access your group needs. Tours, transport and special access may require separate arrangements.

Official visitor information ↗Plan your visit →

Check the official source for current access, hours, fees, reservations, permits and alerts. Photos may show earlier conditions. Suggested highlights are visit ideas, not a guarantee that every area is currently open.