Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

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Photo By National Park Service

Located near the town of Arco in southern Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve offers a uniquely surreal and otherworldly destination, making it a stop that is both fascinating and worth exploring for those intrigued by volcanic landscapes.

Photo By Matthew Dillon from Hollywood, CA, USA – Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=84520354

What makes a visit to Craters of the Moon truly exceptional is its vast expanse of lava flows, cinder cones, and unique geological formations that resemble a lunar landscape.

Photo By Matthew Dillon from Hollywood, CA, USA – Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=84520381

The park showcases the results of ancient and recent volcanic activity, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore lava tubes, walk among volcanic craters, and witness the stark beauty of the Big Southern Butte.

Photo By Matthew Dillon from Hollywood, CA, USA – Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=84520385

The town of Arco complements the experience with its welcoming atmosphere and historical significance as the first city in the world to be lit by nuclear power.

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

The unique combination of otherworldly geology, volcanic features, and the chance to step into a landscape resembling the moon makes Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve a captivating and worthwhile stop, offering a journey through the extraordinary forces that shape our planet.