Craters of the Moon Wilderness

The Craters of the Moon Wilderness is a wide-open volcanic landscape.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Wilderness Trail or Tree Molds Trail

Amenities

2 listed

Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead

Established in 1970, the Craters of the Moon Wilderness was one of the first NPS-managed wilderness areas to be created under the Wilderness Act. This area spans over 43,000 acres and is only accessible by hiking. The area offers wide expanses of sagebrush dotted with the occational cinder cone marking the Great Rift.

The Wilderness is accessed by either the Wilderness Trail or Tree Molds Trail. The Wilderness area begins 0.25 miles (0.4 km) from where the Wilderness Trail splits off Broken Top Loop. The Wilderness Trail can be reliably followed for 3 miles (1.6 km) to Echo Crater before the trail becomes less distinct and ends at The Sentinel. The Tree Molds Trail can be followed for a short distance beyond the sign marking the end of the trail before it disappears completely.

Experienced adventurerers may also be interested in visiting the rugged and remote Craters of the Moon National Preserve.

Safety

Always let someone know where you're going and when you plan to return. Cell service is poor to non-existent in the park. There are no roads or facilities in the Wilderness.

While off-trail hiking is permitted in the Wilderness, go prepared and bring a map, compass or GPS, first-aid kit, sun protection, food, and plenty of water. Be aware of changing conditions that can limit visibility such as fog.

Know Before You Go

• A free permit from the visitor center is required for all overnight trips into the Craters of the Moon Wilderness. Permits allow the park to monitor how many people are using the wilderness, to inform wilderness users of regulations, and to ensure the safe return of all visitors.
• There is no reliable source of water in the Craters of the Moon Wilderness. We recommend packing one gallon of water per person per day.
• The lava can be uneven and sharp. Wear sturdy shoes and use caution, especially if traveling off-trail.
• Plan for hot, dry weather, high winds, and little to no shade.

Wilderness Regulations

• No wood fires are allowed. Use backpacking stoves for cooking.
• Bicycles and other mechanized equipment are not allowed.
• Pets are not allowed on any hiking trails or in the wilderness.
• Do not collect artifacts, plants, rocks, or other natural objects.
• Do not approach or feed wildlife.
• Camping is not permitted within one mile of the Tree Molds trailhead.
• In order protect the park's sensitive bat population from disturbance and the spread of white-nose syndrome, all wilderness caves are closed to public use.

Leave No Trace Tips

• Pack out all waste, including human waste and toilet paper.
• Plan ahead: know where you're going and ensure you have everything you need for a safe, enjoyable, and low-impact trip.
• Learn more about how to Leave No Trace when visiting wilderness areas.