Last updated: October 8, 2023
Thing to Do
Hike Broken Top Loop
Trail Length: 1.8 mi (3 km) Loop
Elevation gain: 242 ft (74 m)
The Broken Top Loop Trail is one of the most outstanding trails within Craters of the Moon. You can observe nearly every type of volcanic feature characteristic of the basaltic eruptions that created this unearthly landscape. This trail also provides access to the Wilderness Trail.
The Broken Top Loop Hiking Guide lets you learn about this amazing area on your hike and is available at the trailhead or from the visitor center bookstore managed by the Craters of the Moon Natural History Association.
Elevation gain: 242 ft (74 m)
The Broken Top Loop Trail is one of the most outstanding trails within Craters of the Moon. You can observe nearly every type of volcanic feature characteristic of the basaltic eruptions that created this unearthly landscape. This trail also provides access to the Wilderness Trail.
The Broken Top Loop Hiking Guide lets you learn about this amazing area on your hike and is available at the trailhead or from the visitor center bookstore managed by the Craters of the Moon Natural History Association.
Details
Duration
60-90 Minutes
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are not allowed on any trails or in caves. Lava rocks are rough and jagged. The surface of the dark rocks can reach 150°F (65°C) or more in the summer and quickly burns paws. Pets should never be left unattended in vehicles or the campground. Parking areas do not have shade and air temperatures can exceed 90°F (32°C) in the middle of summer.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Tree Molds Parking Area
From the visitor center, follow the Loop Road for about 3.5 miles. Turn right at the Tree Molds sign, and follow the road for another mile to the Tree Molds parking area. This area serves the Tree Molds Trail, Broken Top Loop, and the Wilderness Trail. Broken Top Loop follows the sidewalk on edge of the parking lot for the first 100 yards.
RV parking, vault toilets, and a bicycle rack are available.
RV parking, vault toilets, and a bicycle rack are available.
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Accessibility Information
TRAIL LENGTH: 1.8 miles (3 km) loop
CUMULATIVE ELEVATION CHANGE: Gain 242 ft (74 m), loss 197 ft (60 m)
TYPICAL GRADE: 3° (4.8%)
23% of trail is from 4.5° to 32° (8% to 62%)
Standard wheelchair ramp is 4.5° (8%)
TYPICAL CROSS SLOPE: 1° (2.3%)
12% of trail is from 4.5° to 16° (8% to 29%)
TYPICAL TREAD WIDTH: 49 in (124 cm)
MINIMUM TREAD WIDTH: 18 in (46 cm)
TRAIL SURFACE: Gravel-like cinders and lava
74% of trail is FIRM, 26% of trail is HARD or PAVED
OBSTRUCTIONS: ROCKS to 12 inches, RUTS to 10 inches, STEPS to 20 inches
WARNING: Trail conditions may have changed since this trail was assessed. Temporary obstructions may include downed trees and rock fall. Maximum grades and cross slopes may vary by 10% or more.
CUMULATIVE ELEVATION CHANGE: Gain 242 ft (74 m), loss 197 ft (60 m)
TYPICAL GRADE: 3° (4.8%)
23% of trail is from 4.5° to 32° (8% to 62%)
Standard wheelchair ramp is 4.5° (8%)
TYPICAL CROSS SLOPE: 1° (2.3%)
12% of trail is from 4.5° to 16° (8% to 29%)
TYPICAL TREAD WIDTH: 49 in (124 cm)
MINIMUM TREAD WIDTH: 18 in (46 cm)
TRAIL SURFACE: Gravel-like cinders and lava
74% of trail is FIRM, 26% of trail is HARD or PAVED
OBSTRUCTIONS: ROCKS to 12 inches, RUTS to 10 inches, STEPS to 20 inches
WARNING: Trail conditions may have changed since this trail was assessed. Temporary obstructions may include downed trees and rock fall. Maximum grades and cross slopes may vary by 10% or more.