Volcanic landscape with lava tubes

Craters of the Moon, Idaho · Accessibility score 1/5

Address: Craters of the Moon National Preserve, Idaho, United States of America

Phone: (208) 527-1300

About

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in central Idaho feels like stepping onto another planet. Spread across 750,000 acres of volcanic terrain, this remarkable place was formed by eruptions along the Great Rift over the past 15,000 years. The result is a vast expanse of hardened lava flows, towering cinder cones, deep fissures, and mysterious lava tubes that have captivated visitors for generations.

The monument's seven-mile Loop Drive is the main route through the park, with pullouts and trailheads along the way. Several short trails branch off from the drive, offering close-up views of the volcanic features. Devils Orchard Nature Trail is a half-mile paved loop that winds through striking lava formations and scattered islands of vegetation. The North Crater Flow Trail, closest to the Visitor Center, runs about one-third of a mile each way on a paved, raised path through some of the most dramatic lava formations in the park. Snow Cone Trail is the shortest option at just one-tenth of a mile each way, leading to fascinating spatter cones.

For those interested in going underground, several lava tubes are open to explore. These natural tunnels formed when the surface of flowing lava cooled and hardened while molten rock continued moving beneath. Some caves require scrambling over uneven rock, so conditions vary. The Visitor Center staff can help you figure out which caves match your comfort level and ability.

The Visitor Center itself is a great starting point, with exhibits explaining the geology and ecology of the area. Rangers offer programs and can answer questions about trail conditions and accessibility. The park also has a campground if you'd like to stay overnight and catch the spectacular stargazing - the monument's remote location means incredibly dark skies.

Plan to bring water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear if you're venturing beyond paved trails. The dark volcanic rock absorbs heat quickly, making summer afternoons intensely hot. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit. Entry fees apply, and an America the Beautiful pass is accepted.

Accessibility

Craters of the Moon offers several paved, accessible trails suitable for wheelchair users and visitors with mobility challenges. The North Crater Flow Trail is completely wheelchair accessible - it's a paved, raised path about one-third of a mile long that winds through stunning volcanic formations near the Visitor Center. Devils Orchard Nature Trail is a paved half-mile loop that's also accessible. Snow Cone Trail is a short paved path of one-tenth mile each way.

The Visitor Center is accessible and serves as the best starting point for planning your visit. Rangers can provide current information about trail conditions and help match your abilities with appropriate routes. The seven-mile Loop Drive allows visitors to experience much of the monument from their vehicle, with accessible pullouts along the way.

The lava tube caves present significant accessibility barriers - most involve uneven, rocky terrain and may require climbing or crawling. These are generally not wheelchair accessible. Contact the Visitor Center for current details on which caves, if any, offer easier entry.

Accessible parking is available at the Visitor Center and at trailheads along the Loop Drive. Contact the monument directly at (208) 527-1335 for the most current information about accessible restroom locations, campground accessibility, and any seasonal changes to trail conditions. If you have specific accommodation needs, calling ahead will help staff prepare for your visit.

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