Easy hikes and walks in Craters Of The Moon National Wilderness Area
5.0
(18)
346
hikers
17
hikes
Hiking in Craters Of The Moon National Wilderness Area offers exploration of a unique volcanic landscape in south-central Idaho. The region is characterized by vast basaltic lava flows, numerous cinder cones, and an extensive network of lava tubes. This surreal environment, formed by eruptions along the Great Rift, also features hardy sagebrush steppe and unique tree molds.
Best easy hiking trails in Craters Of The Moon National Wilderness Area
- The most popular easy hiking route is Broken Top Loop Trail…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.8
(4)
53
hikers
2.62km
00:43
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
34
hikers
4.07km
01:03
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
32
hikers
957m
00:15
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
(2)
34
hikers
718m
00:13
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
On the 1.8-mile Broken Top Loop Trail, you can observe almost all the volcanic features of the basalt eruptions that created this unique landscape. With an elevation gain of just 242 feet, you'll circle the extinct Broken Top volcano and pass Buffalo Cave. This trail is also the access point to the Wilderness Trail.
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When flaming hot lava hit the trees in this area, the trees fell and ignited. Even today you can see the relics of the "molten" trees and holes that a standing tree left behind.
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The 2-mile (roundtrip) Tree Molds Trail leads you through bushes and pine forests to the edge of the Blue Dragon Flow. Here, numerous trees were knocked over and ignited by molten lava. You can still see the imprints of the charred tree trunks in the lava rock along this trail today. In some places, however, the trees remained standing as the lava flowed around them, leaving vertical imprints in the cooling lava.
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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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Once you make it to the 6,181 foot summit of Inferno Cone, there is a single old tree that offers some shade. Enjoy the stunning view over the dramatic landscape with the nearby Spatter Cones, the Great Rift, the Snake River Plain, and the Pioneer Mountains.
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The Inferno Cone Trail is no true trail: over half a mile, you just walk straight up the steep cinder cone of the Inferno Cone where a single old tree offers some shade. The view over the dramatic landscape with the Great Rift, the Snake River Plain, and the Pioneer Mountains is breathtaking! It can be pretty windy up here.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Craters of the Moon National Wilderness Area?
There are 11 easy hiking trails in Craters of the Moon National Wilderness Area, offering a variety of experiences through its unique volcanic landscape.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Craters of the Moon?
Spring and early summer are ideal for hiking, as wildflowers bloom across the sagebrush steppe. While summers can be hot and dry with little shade, the area is also designated an International Dark Sky Park, making it exceptional for stargazing after sunset.
What makes the landscape of Craters of the Moon unique for hiking?
The area is dominated by immense basaltic lava flows, cinder cones like Big Cinder Butte and Inferno Cone, and an extensive network of lava tubes. These features, formed by eruptions along the Great Rift, create an otherworldly environment often compared to the moon.
Are there any easy trails that lead to lava caves or tubes?
Yes, the Caves Trail is an easy 2.1 km path providing access to several lava tubes. Please note that a free permit from the visitor center and a headlamp are required to explore the caves, which helps protect bat populations.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Pets are generally not allowed on trails within the Craters of the Moon National Wilderness Area to protect the fragile environment and wildlife. It's best to check with the visitor center for specific regulations regarding service animals or designated pet-friendly areas.
Are there any family-friendly easy trails suitable for children?
Absolutely! The Devils Orchard Nature Trail is a half-mile, paved, and accessible loop that showcases unique rock formations, making it perfect for families. The Tree Molds Trail is also an easy, relatively level hike that leads to intriguing tree molds.
What should I wear and bring for an easy hike in Craters of the Moon?
Hikers should be prepared for uneven and sharp lava terrain, so sturdy footwear is essential. Summers can be hot and dry with little shade, so bringing plenty of water is crucial. Sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, is also highly recommended.
Are there any easy trails with panoramic viewpoints?
Yes, the Inferno Cone Trail, though short and steep, leads to the summit of Inferno Cone and rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. The Broken Top Loop Trail also offers scenic vistas.
What kind of unique natural features can I expect to see on the easy trails?
You can encounter distinctive tree molds where lava flowed around ancient trees, vast basaltic lava fields with varying textures, and numerous cinder cones. The Tree Molds Trail is specifically designed to showcase these unique formations.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Craters of the Moon National Wilderness Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique, otherworldly volcanic landscape, the well-maintained trails, and the opportunity to explore lava tubes and cinder cones.
Is cell service available in Craters of the Moon National Wilderness Area?
Cell service is often poor or nonexistent in many parts of the park. It's advisable to download maps and any necessary information offline before your visit and to inform others of your hiking plans.
Are there any circular easy walks in the area?
Yes, the Broken Top Loop Trail is an easy 2.6 km circular route that offers scenic vistas and access to a lava cave. The Devils Orchard Nature Trail is also a short, paved loop.
Most popular routes in Craters Of The Moon National Wilderness Area
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