Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve

Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve

Set within Idaho, Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve is administered as a national preserve — the designation chosen when protection, access, and certain traditional uses need to coexist. Craters of the Moon is a vast ocean of lava flows with scattered islands of cinder cones and sagebrush. We invite you to explore this "weird and scenic landscape" where yesterday's volcanic events are likely to continue tomorrow.

The best visits to Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve start with realistic expectations. Preserves are quieter, wilder, and more demanding than most parks — which is why they exist.

Preserves like Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve are managed so that landscapes, wildlife, and certain traditional uses can coexist. That calls for careful, informed visits.

Key Highlights

• Migrations
• Native American Heritage
• Westward Expansion
• Animals
• Skiing
• Museum Exhibits
• Wildlife Watching

Getting There

Reaching Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve is straightforward once you know the route. Visitor Center and Loop Drive are located 18 miles southwest of Arco, Idaho on U.S. Highway 20/26/93, 24 miles northeast of Carey, Idaho on U.S. Highway 20/26/93, 84 miles from Idaho Falls, and 90 miles from Twin Falls. Physical address is 1266 Craters Loop Road(Lat/Long: 43° 27.711'N/113° 33.7) Access to the main visitor use area is via a paved highway. Unpaved roads provide additional access to the BLM monument and NPS Preserve but should only be utilized by four wheel drive and high clearance vehicles.

By Car

Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or rental car. Road conditions vary with weather and construction, so check the park's alerts page the day before you travel. Pay attention to GPS directions in rural stretches—some apps route drivers onto unmaintained service roads rather than the signed park entrance.

Nearest Airports

Regional airports provide the most convenient access for long-distance travelers. For the most current airline service and driving distances, cross-reference flight options with the park's contact page. Budget extra drive time from any airport, especially if you arrive after dark or during winter weather.

Public Transit and Tours

Direct public transit is limited at most National Park Service sites, but guided day tours and shuttles sometimes operate from nearby cities during peak season. Rideshare options are often reliable in gateway towns but may drop off outside the park boundary rather than at specific trailheads or visitor centers.

For turn-by-turn directions and current road status, consult the park's official directions page: http://www.nps.gov/crmo/planyourvisit/directions.htm.

Best Time to Visit

Weather shapes every visit. Weather at Craters of the Moon is characterized by hot summers and cold winters. In February, average snow depth ranges from 26 inches at the north end of the monument to just 2 inches at the south end. Intense summer sun bakes the black lava, generating surface temperatures of 170°F and air temperatures in the 90s. Drying winds are a daily occurrence, especially in the afternoon, and may reach 15 to 30 miles per hour.

Spring (March – May)

Spring brings thaw, wildlife activity, and emerging trails, though mud and high water can complicate access.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is peak season for backcountry travel, with the longest days and fullest services.

Fall (September – November)

Fall delivers cool weather, sparse crowds, and some of the best wildlife viewing of the year.

Winter (December – February)

Winter travel demands serious preparation. Rewards include solitude, winter wildlife, and landscapes few others will see.

Activities and Adventures

Activities at Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve reflect the character of the site. The options below are drawn from the park's current published list—confirm availability and any required reservations before planning around a specific activity.

• Auto and ATV — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Scenic Driving — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Astronomy — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Stargazing — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Biking — confirm which roads and paths allow bikes and whether rentals are available in the gateway community.
• Road Biking — confirm which roads and paths allow bikes and whether rentals are available in the gateway community.
• Camping — check campground availability and reservation windows in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Backcountry Camping — check campground availability and reservation windows in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Caving — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Hiking — trails range from short interpretive loops to longer, more demanding routes; match your choice to conditions and fitness.
• Backcountry Hiking — trails range from short interpretive loops to longer, more demanding routes; match your choice to conditions and fitness.
• Junior Ranger Program — schedules rotate seasonally; check the visitor center board on arrival for the current lineup.
• Skiing — winter routes require appropriate gear and layered clothing; conditions shift rapidly with storms.
• Cross-Country Skiing — winter routes require appropriate gear and layered clothing; conditions shift rapidly with storms.
• Snowshoeing — winter routes require appropriate gear and layered clothing; conditions shift rapidly with storms.
• Wildlife Watching — dawn and dusk are the most productive viewing windows; bring binoculars and maintain a respectful distance.
• Birdwatching — dawn and dusk are the most productive viewing windows; bring binoculars and maintain a respectful distance.
• Park Film — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Museum Exhibits — the visitor center is the best first stop for context, maps, and current program information.
• Shopping — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Bookstore and Park Store — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Gift Shop and Souvenirs — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.

Ranger-led programs are often the highest-value activity for first-time visitors, combining interpretation with access you might miss on your own. Check program schedules at the visitor center on arrival.

Wildlife and Natural Features

Although Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve is best known to many visitors for its recreation and scenery, it also protects the ecosystems that make those experiences possible.

Featured interpretive themes include Migrations, Native American Heritage, Westward Expansion, Animals, Birds, Caves, Caverns and Karst.

Habitats and Ecosystems

The park's habitats support a cross-section of regional wildlife. Observing species in their native context is one of the most rewarding—and most overlooked—reasons to slow down during a visit.

Viewing Wildlife Responsibly

Give animals room, never feed them, and store food properly where bears or other scavengers are present. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens for close-up views rather than approaching.

Night Skies and Quiet

Many NPS units are increasingly valued as dark-sky and natural-quiet refuges. If your visit overlaps with a clear, moonless night, step away from artificial lighting and let your eyes adjust.

Lodging and Camping

Lodging strategy depends on how long you plan to stay at Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve and what you want to do when you are not at the park.

Camping

The park offers camping as a recognized activity. Reservation systems, site availability, and amenities vary by campground, so confirm current rules at the park's website before arrival. Popular sites often fill during weekends and holidays; weekday visits increase your chance of first-come, first-served spots.

Gateway Towns and Nearby Lodging

Communities close to the park offer a mix of chain hotels, independent inns, vacation rentals, and—depending on location—bed-and-breakfasts. Several Idaho towns serve as convenient bases, with restaurants, fuel, and grocery resupply. Book well ahead for summer weekends and major holidays.

Operating Hours and Seasons

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve: The Loop Road is typically open from mid April through late November. High clearance four-wheel drive is highly recommended on BLM Monument roads and are impassible when snow or water is present.

Essential Information

Fees and Passes

• Entrance - Private Vehicle — $20.00: This per-vehicle fee applies to private, non-commercial vehicles and provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days. The fee covers the driver and any passengers.
• Entrance - Motorcycle — $15.00: Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
• Commercial Entrance - Sedan — $25.00: This per-vehicle fee applies to commercial vehicles and provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days.
• Entrance - Per Person — $10.00: This per-person fee provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days. Youth age 15 and under are free.

Passes

• Annual Entrance - Park — $35.00: Annual entrance pass for Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve only. Valid for one year through the month of purchase. This pass can be purchased at the park entrance station.

Contact

• Phone: 2085271300
• Email: crmo_information@nps.gov
• Official site: https://www.nps.gov/crmo/index.htm

Safety

Carry water, sun protection, and layered clothing appropriate for the season. Cell coverage can be spotty in parts of the park—download offline maps before you leave your lodging. In an emergency, dial 911 or contact the nearest ranger station.

Services and Accessibility

Main visitor centers typically offer accessible restrooms, interpretive exhibits, bookstore sales, and ranger assistance. Accessibility varies by building and trail; contact the park ahead of time to discuss specific needs. Pets are often allowed on leash in designated areas only—check current rules before bringing animals.

Regulations to Know

Drones are prohibited in nearly all National Park Service units without a special permit. Metal detecting, collection of natural or cultural objects, and off-trail travel in sensitive areas are also commonly restricted. Read the signs at each trailhead and ask a ranger if you are unsure.

Carry what you need at Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve. Preserves reward independence; they do not subsidize it.