CRATERS of the MOON National Monument & Preserve

HARD AS A ROCK?

While the lava flows seem indestructible, these rocks are very fragile! The crust covering the lava flows is brittle and will fracture and break if you step on it. Any place where the lava is orange instead of black indicates that the crust has been damaged and the oxidized lava underneath is now exposed. Hollow ropy lava, crumbly crater walls, and honeycombed cinders can be destroyed by a careless step. You can make a difference.

Stay on the trails wherever possible.

If exploring the Monument where there are no trails, please follow these low-impact hiking techniques:

We appreciate your cooperation! Remember,
THE ROCKS ARE FRAGILE!

Safe Travel Tips

The black lava captures and radiates the heat of the intense summer sun. An afternoon without steady wind is a rarity. Be prepared! Wear sun screen and a hat and carry plenty of water. Fill your water bottles before leaving the visitor center, as there is no running water along the Loop Drive, nor is there surface water in the wilderness. For wilderness travel, carry at least one gallon of water per person per day. The lava surface is uneven and abrasive, so wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes. Cuts and abrasions from falling on the lava are the most common injuries in the park.

Rules of the Trail

• A free permit is required for all overnight trips into the backcountry.
• Pets are not permitted on any trails.
• No wood fires allowed.
• Bicycles and other mechanized equipment are not allowed on any park trails.