Craters of the Moon National Monument
[ Arco, Idaho ]
The present quiet of the strange, barren landscape of Craters of the Moon National Monument belies the area’s past as a giant lava field that formed during eight major eruptive periods. The monument preserves the largest lava field in the lower 48 states.
The volcanic formations run along the Great Rift, a series of cracks in the earth that start at the visitor center and stretch 52 miles. Guests can marvel at the impact left behind from ancient eruptions in the form of 60 lava flows, 25 scattered cinder cones and lava tube caves.
“People who come here experience an amazing volcanic wonderland,” said Ted Stout, chief of interpretation and education for the monument. “It is a unique landscape for most people. The massive lava flow is so huge, it is clearly visible from space.”
Groups can begin exploration of the unusual terrain with the seven-mile Loop Drive, which passes trails and various volcanic features and viewpoints. Highlights include island-like lava fragments at Devils Orchard, miniature volcanoes at Spatter Cones and a walk to the top of a cinder cone at Inferno Cone.
“We have a very large cave called Indian Tunnel, which is kind of like walking through a giant subway tunnel,” said Stout. “Lava flowed through there until it was diverted, leaving the tunnel you can now walk through.”
Rangers lead groups through the Indian Tunnel on a trail that goes into the cave at one end and then pops out on the surface to take participants back to where they started. Groups can also listen to short orientation talks at the visitor center to understand the events that caused the surreal landscape of the park.
