Summary
The area is covered in a vast expanse of lava flows that stretch for miles, and it is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. Visitors to the area will find a number of good reasons to visit, including the opportunity to explore the rugged and otherworldly landscape, learn about the Park's history and geology, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
One of the most interesting points of interest in Craters of the Moon is the lava tube system. These underground tunnels were formed by flowing lava and are now home to unique ecosystems that include rare species of bats and spiders. Other notable features of the area include the Tree Molds trail, which showcases the imprints of ancient trees that were buried in lava, and the Inferno Cone, a 618-foot cinder cone that offers panoramic views of the park.
There are several interesting facts about Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. For example, the area was once considered for use as a training ground for Apollo astronauts due to its resemblance to the moon's surface. Additionally, the park is home to a number of rare and endangered species of plants and animals, including the peregrine falcon and the sagebrush lizard.
The best time of year to visit Craters of the Moon depends on personal preferences. Summer is the busiest time of year, with warm temperatures and long days providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for those who prefer a more peaceful experience. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it also offers the chance to explore the park on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
Overall, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the natural wonders of Idaho. From its vast lava fields to its unique wildlife and fascinating geological features, this park offers something for everyone.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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