Easy hikes and walks in Craters Of The Moon National Preserve
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Easy hiking trails in Craters Of The Moon National Preserve traverse a unique volcanic landscape in central Idaho. This preserve is characterized by vast lava fields, numerous cinder cones, and solidified lava flows that create an otherworldly environment. The terrain includes features like pahoehoe and a'a lava, as well as the Great Rift, a significant geological fissure. Hikers can explore a diverse array of volcanic formations, including lava tubes and tree molds, across this expansive area.
Best easy hiking trails in Craters Of The Moon National Preserve
- The most popular easy hiking route is North Crater Trail, a 3.6 miles (5.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 35 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the North Crater and surrounding lava flows.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Caves Trail, an easy 1.3 miles (2.1 km) path. This trail leads to several lava tube caves, including Indian Tunnel and Dewdrop Cave.
- Local hikers also love the Devils Orchard Nature Trail, a 0.6 miles (1.0 km) trail leading through cinder beds scattered with volcanic rock, often completed in about 15 minutes.
- Hiking in Craters Of The Moon National Preserve is defined by expansive lava fields, prominent cinder cones, and accessible lava tubes. The network offers options for various ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Craters Of The Moon National Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from around 20 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Craters Of The Moon National Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
31
hikers
5.72km
01:35
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
583m
00:09
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
64
hikers
2.09km
00:32
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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32
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957m
00:15
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
2.39km
00:37
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Devils Orchard Nature Trail is a 0.5-mile paved loop showing you an area of cinder beds scattered with pieces of North Crater. There are interesting information boards for the awareness of this fragile environment. The trail is wheelchair-accessible.
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You will find several information boards with interesting facts about the changing environment in Craters of the Moon National Monument. So take your time to learn a bit more about this unique place. There are also benches, in case you want to rest.
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The Caves Trail leads to four different caves that are actually lava tubes: Dewdrop Cave, Indian Tunnel, Boy Scout Cave and Beauty Cave. Some of the caves might be closed to protect bats or for the season and you need to obtain a free permit from the Visitor Center to enter any cave. While walking above the ground, you can discover fascinating formations that were created by the latest lava flow: the Blue Dragon Lava Flow with bluish lava.
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The "Indian Tunnel" is the largest and longest of the lava tubes along the Caves Trail that can be accessed. To do so, you need to obtain a free permit at the Visitor Center. You will climb over rocks that can be slippery in places, but it is a unique small adventure. On the ceiling of the tube you can see lava stalactites formed as the river of lava pulled away from the ceiling, and molten material began to drip from the hot ceiling. The exit is about 800 feet further north.
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The northern entrance of the "Indian Tunnel" is mostly used as an exit since you enter the lava tube from further south. Once you get out of the lava tube, follow the wooden poles over the lava back to the Caves Trail.
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The Dewdrop Cave is one of four lava tubes that is open for the public (things may change though) and one of the shorter ones. It was formed during the latest lava flow known as the Blue Dragon Lava Flow. You climb down a short ladder and you can investigate just a little further.
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There is a fairly large parking lot at the Caves Trailhead. You will find restrooms and picnic benches. To enter one or more caves along the Caves Trail, you need to obtain a free permit at the Visitor Center of Craters of the Moon National Monument.
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The huge lava blocks you see here are sections of a broken crater wall that have been carried along on top of a so-called aa lava flow. Geologists believe that as many as four separate flows came from a vent at or near North Crater.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Craters of the Moon National Preserve?
Craters of the Moon National Preserve offers over 10 easy hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore its unique volcanic landscape. In total, there are 20 routes available, with 11 specifically categorized as easy.
What unique geological features can I expect to see on easy hikes?
Easy hikes in Craters of the Moon National Preserve showcase a variety of 'otherworldly' volcanic features. You can expect to see expansive lava fields with different types of lava like pahoehoe and a'a, prominent cinder cones, and unique tree molds where ancient trees were engulfed by lava. The preserve is also defined by the Great Rift, a significant crack in the Earth's crust.
Are there any easy trails that lead to lava tubes or caves?
Yes, the Caves Trail is an easy 1.3-mile path that leads to several lava tube caves, including Indian Tunnel, Dewdrop Cave, Boy Scout Cave, and Beauty Cave. A free permit from the Visitor Center is required to enter these caves, and flashlights are strongly recommended for exploration.
Are the easy hiking trails in Craters of the Moon National Preserve suitable for families with children?
Many easy trails are suitable for families. For instance, the Devils Orchard Nature Trail is a short, paved loop that is easy for all ages. The unique volcanic landscape and accessible lava tubes on the Caves Trail also provide an engaging experience for children.
Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails in Craters of the Moon National Preserve?
Dogs are generally permitted on paved trails and in developed areas like campgrounds and parking lots, but typically not on unpaved hiking trails or inside lava tubes. Always check current regulations at the Visitor Center upon arrival, as policies can vary and are subject to change to protect the fragile environment.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible easy trails?
Yes, the Devils Orchard Nature Trail is an easy, 0.5-mile paved loop that is wheelchair-accessible. It offers interpretive information about the volcanic environment and showcases cinder beds scattered with volcanic rock.
What is the best time of year to visit Craters of the Moon for easy hiking?
Spring and fall are generally the best times for easy hiking in Craters of the Moon National Preserve. Temperatures are milder, making exploration more comfortable. Summers can be very hot, and winters bring snow, which can limit access to some trails and caves.
How long do easy hikes typically take in Craters of the Moon National Preserve?
The duration of easy hikes varies. For example, the North Crater Trail, at 3.6 miles, typically takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes. Shorter options like the Devils Orchard Nature Trail can be completed in about 15 minutes, while the Caves Trail takes around 30 minutes.
Are there any easy loop trails in the preserve?
Yes, the Devils Orchard Nature Trail loop from Paisley Cone is an easy 1.5-mile loop that offers a varied experience through cinder beds and volcanic rock formations. The Devils Orchard Nature Trail itself is also a short, easy loop.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Craters of the Moon National Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from around 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique, 'otherworldly' volcanic landscapes, the accessibility of the lava tubes, and the well-maintained trails that offer an immersive experience into this geological wonder.
What should I bring for an easy hike in Craters of the Moon National Preserve?
Even on easy trails, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the landscape offers little shade. Sturdy shoes are recommended for walking on uneven volcanic terrain. If you plan to explore lava tubes, a flashlight or headlamp is essential, and a free permit is required from the Visitor Center.
Is there parking available at the trailheads for easy hikes?
Yes, Craters of the Moon National Preserve has designated parking areas at or near the trailheads for its popular routes, including those for easy hikes. The Loop Road provides access to many of these trailheads, making it convenient to park and begin your exploration.
Most popular routes in Craters Of The Moon National Preserve
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