Craters of the Moon National Monument: A Complete Travel Guide

If you're looking for an otherworldly adventure, Craters of the Moon National Monument is a must-visit. This vast volcanic landscape in Idaho offers lava fields, cinder cones, lava tubes, and scenic trails that make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Whether you’re interested in hiking, caving, or photography, this guide will help you plan your trip to Craters of the Moon.

Where is Craters of the Moon?

Location: Central Idaho, between Arco & Carey

Drive Time from Boise: ~3.5 hours

Visit Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon is located along U.S. Highway 20, making it an easy stop on an Idaho road trip. The nearest town is Arco, Idaho, which offers lodging and dining options.

Gazing upward from within the jagged, shadowy confines of a rocky cave at the Craters of the Moon National Monument reveals a brilliant blue sky dotted with scattered white clouds—a perfect scene for any travel guide.

Best Time to Visit Craters of the Moon

Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures, great for hiking, and fewer crowds.

Summer (June-August): Hot during the day but best for stargazing and cave exploration.

Fall (September-October): Pleasant weather and vibrant colors in the surrounding landscape.

Winter (November-March): Offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with a surreal snowy landscape.

Top Things to Do at Craters of the Moon

1. Drive the 7-Mile Loop Road

This scenic drive offers access to most of the park’s highlights, with stunning views of lava flows, craters, and rugged terrain. Stop at multiple pullouts to explore trails and viewpoints.

Time Required: ~1 hour with stops

Entry Point: Visitor Center Parking Lot

2. Hike the Inferno Cone Trail

For one of the best views in the park, hike up Inferno Cone. This short but steep trail leads to a 360-degree view of the lava fields and distant mountains.

Distance: 0.4 miles round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

3. Explore the Lava Tubes & Caves

One of the most unique experiences at Craters of the Moon is exploring the lava tube caves. These underground tunnels were formed by flowing lava and are a must-visit for adventurers.

Best Lava Caves to Explore:

Indian Tunnel – The easiest cave to explore with large openings and natural light.
Dewdrop Cave – A smaller lava tube with unique rock formations.
Boy Scout Cave – Requires a headlamp; ice formations can be seen in early summer.
Beauty Cave – Another dark lava tube with striking rock textures.

Tip: Bring a flashlight or headlamp, and wear sturdy shoes for cave exploration.

Cave Access: Requires a free cave permit from the Visitor Center.

4. Climb the Spatter Cones

The Spatter Cones are small volcano-like formations made from lava splashes. A short walk leads to their summit, offering a close-up look at these miniature volcanoes.

Distance: 0.2 miles round trip

Difficulty: Easy

5. Stargaze at One of the Darkest Skies in the U.S.

Craters of the Moon is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places for stargazing. Visit on a clear night to see the Milky Way, planets, and meteor showers.

Best Spot: Any parking area along the Loop Road

Best Time: Summer and early fall for clearest skies.

Tips for Visiting Craters of the Moon

Wear sturdy shoes – The sharp lava rocks can be rough on feet.

Bring plenty of water – There is no drinking water available past the Visitor Center.

Check cave access – Some caves may be closed to protect bat populations.

Prepare for temperature changes – The park’s high elevation and lack of shade mean hot days and cool nights.

Nearby Attractions in Idaho

Make the most of your Idaho adventure by visiting these attractions near Craters of the Moon:

Shoshone Falls – One of the largest waterfalls in the U.S. (80 miles away).
Sun Valley – A premier resort town with hiking, skiing, and dining (90 miles away).
Hell’s Half Acre Lava Field – Another fascinating volcanic landscape near Idaho Falls (70 miles away).

Final Thoughts

Craters of the Moon is one of the most unique landscapes in the U.S., offering an unforgettable experience for hikers, stargazers, and adventurers. Whether you’re exploring lava tubes, hiking cinder cones, or simply enjoying the surreal scenery, this Idaho hidden gem is worth a visit.

For more Idaho travel guides, check out our Shoshone Falls Travel Guide and Best Things to Do in Idaho.