Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in Idaho an Eerie Sight

Located in the Snake River Plain of central Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve has often been referred to as one of the strangest landscapes in the United States. The unusual terrain of this volcanic area represents one of the best preserved flood basalt areas in the continental U.S. The national monument area covers about 715, 000 acres (1,100 square miles) and is located close to the town of Arco, Idaho. Declared a monument in 1924 and a preserve in 2002, the attraction draws a crowd of about 250,000 visitors per year. It is managed jointly by the National Park Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.

Volcanic features dominant the landscape at the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, which encompasses three major lava fields and approximately 400 square miles of sagebrush steppe grasslands, which is a dry, treeless, level ecosystem. More than 25 volcanic cones can be explored here, most lying along the Great Rift of Idaho, a series of fractures in the earth's crust. The only other area similar to this is in Africa.

Most guests begin their tour of Craters on the Moon at the Visitor Center, where they can take advantage of a video presentation, various exhibits, a bookstore, and advice from rangers who are available to help plan hikes and other expeditions around the park.

For those who prefer a driving tour, a 7-mile scenic loop winds around the national monument area and allows guests to either view the landscape from their automobile or depart and take advantage of walking/hiking trails along the way. Most of the trails off the scenic loop road are accessible and are a half-mile or shorter and not strenuous. However, they allow guests to see more than they would from their cars.

Those wishing to partake of longer hikes should be prepared for uneven terrain that's difficult on the feet and legs and demands some degree of physical prowess. Because of the black lava, hiking trails are hot and dry, so hikers should prepare appropriately, especially during the summer months. Trails range from .5 miles to about 8 miles, the latter leading to Echo Crater, an eerie moonscape that's fascinating to explore. The trip to Echo Crater many include backpacking and a stay in the park's backcountry.

Winter activities include cross country skiing on a groomed track that ranges from 4 to 7 miles long, depending on weather conditions. Telemark skiing is available on the slopes of the cinder cones and skiers are permitted to leave the groomed track but do so at their own risk. In addition, the 1.5-mile Snowshoe Loop Trail provides a different kind of winter experience. Guided snowshoe walks are often scheduled during January and February.

There is no lodging or food services at the park. Amenities can be enjoyed in the town of Arco, which is about a 30 minute drive from the park.