Found in the Snake River Plain in Idaho, the Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is a beautiful volcanic landscape that appears alien. Geologic formations found on the lava fields of the preserve include cinder cones, spatter cones, and lava tube caves, all formed from volcanic activity in the Great Rift Volcanic rift zone. The volcanic activity within the preserve occurred as long as 15,000 years ago and as recent as 2,000 years ago.

The solitude of this fragile environment haunts and mystifies park visitors. Enjoy the scenery of the volcanic terrain on foot in the backcountry or on the scenic Loop Drive.

—Caroline Griffith

NPCA Recommends

Take a hike to the top of Inferno Cove where, on clear days, panoramic views stretch as far as the Teton Range to the east.

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