Craters of the Moon National Wilderness Area

Between 15,000 and 2,100 years ago, repeated volcanic eruptions along the Great Rift spilled huge amounts of basalt lava across the Snake River Plain in south central Idaho. After the molten rock cooled, vast lava fields covering over 700 square miles remained, studded with numerous cinder cones and spatter cones, as well as hidden ice caves and lava tubes. While volcanic activity is currently dormant, geologists predict the lava will flow in this region again. The landscape may appear black and barren, but numerous hardy plants, many of which bloom colorfully in spring and summer, and a range of animals live in this dry region. Animals active at dawn and dusk include mule deer, coyotes, porcupines, mountain cottontails, jackrabbits, and many songbirds. Daytime animals include ground squirrels, marmots, chipmunks, lizards, snakes, hawks, and eagles. Nocturnal animals include woodrats, skunks, foxes, bobcats, mountain lions, bats, nighthawks, owls, and most other small desert rodents. A portion of this astonishing landscape, about 83 square miles, was set aside as Craters of the Moon National Monument in 1924. In 2000, an additional 640 square miles of the surrounding Craters of the Moon and adjacent Wapi lava fields were added to the National Park System as Craters of the Moon National Preserve, most of which has been recommended for wilderness designation. Free permits are required for overnight stays and are available at the visitor center. Groups are limited to 8 people. No wood fires are permitted, pets are not allowed in the Wilderness, and all wilderness caves are closed to public use to prevent the spread of white-nose syndrome. Camping is not permitted within one mile of the Tree Molds trailhead, and stock is limited to day use along the Wilderness Trail to Echo Crater.