
Overview
About Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve.
Craters of the Moon is a vast ocean of lava flows with scattered islands of cinder cones and sagebrush. We invite you to explore this "weird and scenic landscape" where yesterday's volcanic events are likely to continue tomorrow.
Weather
Weather at Craters of the Moon is characterized by hot summers and cold winters. In February, average snow depth ranges from 26 inches at the north end of the monument to just 2 inches at the south end. Intense summer sun bakes the black lava, generating surface temperatures of 170°F and air temperatures in the 90s. Drying winds are a daily occurrence, especially in the afternoon, and may reach 15 to 30 miles per hour.
Entrance Fees
This per-vehicle fee applies to private, non-commercial vehicles and provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days. The fee covers the driver and any passengers.
Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
This per-vehicle fee applies to commercial vehicles and provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days.
This per-person fee provides entrance into the park for seven consecutive days. Youth age 15 and under are free.
Classes or groups from accredited academic institutions may apply for a fee waiver ahead of their visit by contacting the park. Academic fee waivers are not granted automatically. Educational groups must apply and meet the two criteria to receive a fee waiver: 1) eligibility and 2) educational purpose and relevance of park resources or facilities. Groups that choose to not make a reservation or apply for an academic fee waiver will be charged the standard entrance fee per vehicle.
Gallery
Photos of Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve.
6 images
Things to do
Discover Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve.

Backpack the Craters of the Moon Wilderness
Immerse yourself in the solitude of the Craters of the Moon Wilderness.
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Become a Craters Junior Ranger
15-30 MinutesEarn your Junior Ranger badge for Craters of the Moon while learning about the park by completing this fun activity book.
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Explore a Cave
60-90 MinutesExplore Craters' dynamic underground world of lava tubes.
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Hike Broken Top Loop
60-90 MinutesFind a variety of unique volcanic features on this moderate-difficulty 1.8 mile loop.
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Hike Devils Orchard
30-45 MinutesEnjoy an easy, 0.5 mile walk through an open limber pine woodland.
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Hike the North Crater Trail
90-120 MinutesThis strenuous 3.5-mile trail drops into the mouth of North Crater.
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Hike the Tree Molds Trail
60-90 MinutesThis 2-mile trail winds through the Craters of the Moon Wilderness and features molds of ancient trees encased in lava.
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Hike Up Inferno Cone
30-45 MinutesClimb a short but very steep trail to the top of a volcanic cone for awe-inspiring views.
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Stargazing at Craters of the Moon
See the night sky like never before! The natural darkness of Craters of the Moon lends to superior stargazing opportunities.
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