Loop Road is Closed but We're Open for Winter

NPS

News Release Date: December 3, 2015

Contact: Visitor Center Staff, 208-527-1335

Winter has arrived at Craters of the Moon and the dark lava rock now wears a mantle of white. The loop drive is closed to automobile travel but there are still many excellent opportunities to explore the park. Join us for the following winter activities and events:

Visitor Center: Daily from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., except for federal holidays (Dec. 25, Jan. 1, Jan. 18, Feb. 15)

View exhibits and audio-visual presentations to learn more about your national monument. Check out the bookstore for unique gifts or snowshoe rentals. Visit the Craters of the Moon Natural History Association website for more details at:http://www.cratersofthemoonnha.org/

Cross-country Skiing/ Snowshoeing: Mid-December thru February (depending on snow conditions)

The 7 mile loop road will be groomed for skiing as snow pack allows and there are no entry or user fees. Most of the snow trail follows relatively level terrain and can be completed in 2-4 hours. There are also excellent opportunities for snowshoeing throughout the park including our 1.5 mile snowshoe loop. Please note that pets are not permitted on any of our winter trails.

Visit the website for maps and current conditions: https://www.nps.gov/crmo/planyourvisit/winter-activities.htm

Winter Snowshoe Adventures: 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturdays;Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30 and Feb. 6, 13, 20

Explore a cooler side of Craters of the Moon on a Ranger guided Winter Snowshoe Adventure. The day begins with a 30-minute classroom session followed by several hours out in the park on snowshoes. Look for tracks and climb a volcano on this 2-4 mile trek. Bring a lunch. Snowshoes are available for complementary use (donations accepted). Reservations are required and participants need to be at least 10 years of age for this moderately strenuous walk.Call 208-527-1335 or email ([e-mail]) early to sign up for these popular excursions.

SnowSchool: Tuesday through Friday in January and February

Bring your students to Craters for an unforgettable and educational snowshoe trek. Snowshoe with a Ranger and learn about how wildlife adapts to winter conditions. We have enough snowshoes for about 30 students and the walks are suitable for third graders and up. Contact the park at [phone] for more information or to schedule a field trip. Transportation assistance is available!After registering for a SnowSchool visit we will provide you with detailed information on what to wear and bring.