Public invited to special walks at Craters of the Moon in southeastern Idaho
May 16, 2025 | 6:32 am ET
Description
A lava field can be seen with the Pioneer Mountains in the background on April 29, 2024, at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve near Arco. On May 2, 1924, President Calvin Coolidge designated 54,000 acres of volcanic landscape across southern Idaho a national monument, adding that the landscape has “curious and unusual phenomena of great educational value.” (Pat Sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun)
The National Park Service will host three “walks on the Moon” events this month and next month at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, located in southern Idaho near Arco.
The walks are held in partnership with Craters of the Moon Natural History Association, Michael Irving, chief of interpretation and education at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, said in a written statement.
“Spring is a great time of year to visit Craters of the Moon, with mild temperatures, fewer visitors, and beautiful scenery as remaining snow contrasts with lava and wildflowers bloom,” Irving said.
The hikes will be led by Doug Owen, who worked for 19 years at Craters of the Moon as a park ranger, geologist and education specialist. He is also a professional photographer.
More info on the walks: Wildflower, photography and geology
The walks are planned on the following Saturdays: May 31, June 7, and June 14.
Space on each walk is limited, and reservations are required. To register, call the Craters of the Moon Visitor Center at 208-527-1335.
The first walk: Wildflower and Ethnobotany Walk
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 31
More info: The roughly two-mile walk is planned to feature discussion of ecology, adaptations and traditional uses of plants. Limited to 20 participants. More info available online at the National Park Service’s website.
The second walk: Photography Adventure Hike
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 7
More info: The approximate four-mile hike will cover a range of terrain, including the cinder flats and the Broken Top Loop Trail. Photographers of all skill levels are welcome. The walk will include tips on photographing different textures, wildflowers and using light reflectors. Limited to 15 participants. More info available online at the National Park Service’s website.
The third walk: Geology Nature Hike
When: 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 14
More info: The four-mile hike will feature views and learning opportunities for many geologic features. Limited to 20 participants. More info available online at the National Park Service’s website.
Boise, ID