The best walks and hikes in Craters Of The Moon National Monument

Yes, the monument has several short and accessible trails perfect for families. The Devils Orchard Nature Trail is a paved, half-mile loop that is wheelchair-friendly and winds through a unique landscape of cinder fragments. Another great option is the Spatter Cones Trail, a very short paved path that lets you look directly into the vents of mini-volcanoes.

Pets are not permitted on any of the hiking trails within Craters of the Moon. They are allowed on paved roads and in the campground, but must be leashed at all times. For their safety, they should not be left in vehicles, as temperatures can become dangerously high.

For a close look at the eerie impressions left by lava-incinerated trees, the Tree Molds Trail is a fascinating choice. This trail takes you through a landscape where you can see these detailed natural casts in the solidified lava.

The Broken Top Loop Trail is a popular circular hike. This 1.6-mile (2.6 km) loop provides a great overview of the volcanic landscape, showcasing features like a lava bowl and lava bombs without needing to backtrack.

To explore the caves, you can follow the Caves Trail, which leads to several lava tubes like the large Indian Tunnel. Before entering any cave, you must obtain a free cave permit from the visitor center. This is required to help prevent the spread of White-Nose Syndrome in bats. Be aware that caves can be closed seasonally due to ice or to protect bat populations.

For breathtaking 360-degree views of the entire monument, the Inferno Cone Trail is unmatched. It's a short but steep climb up a cinder cone, and from the top, you can see the vast lava fields, the Great Rift, and even the Teton Range on a clear day.

There are around 20 designated hiking trails in the monument. These range from very short, paved nature walks to more strenuous backcountry routes, offering opportunities for all fitness levels to explore the volcanic terrain.

The trails in Craters of the Moon are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of nearly 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the unique, otherworldly landscapes and the chance to walk across ancient lava flows and explore volcanic cones.

Yes, the North Crater Trail is a strenuous 3.5-mile (5.6 km) one-way hike that offers a more challenging experience. It takes you into the mouth of the North Crater and provides stunning views of the colorful crater walls and surrounding landscape.

Yes, but the experience is very different. The scenic Loop Road closes to vehicles but opens for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. This provides a unique and serene way to explore the snow-covered lava fields. You must bring your own equipment as there are no rentals in the park.

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential as the lava rock is sharp and uneven. The environment is very exposed with little shade, so bring plenty of water (at least 1 gallon/4 liters per person, per day), sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and a flashlight or headlamp if you plan to explore the caves.

Yes, Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve requires an entrance fee for all visitors. You can find the most current fee information and options for park passes on the official National Park Service website for the monument.