Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in Winter
Visited February 2022
Visiting Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in winter offers a completely different experience from summer. The scenic Loop Road closes to vehicles, snow blankets the lava fields, and visitors can explore on foot, snowshoes, or skis with significantly fewer crowds.
We visited in February during the winter with our 3-year-old and 13-year-old, borrowed snowshoes, and discovered that this “harsh” landscape becomes surprisingly peaceful under a blanket of snow.
If you’re considering a winter visit, here’s what it’s really like.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Loop Road closes to vehicles once snow accumulates. It becomes open to foot traffic, snowshoeing, and sometimes cross-country skiing. This can start as early as November and last through March.
- Check current conditions before arriving. Snow depth, road access, and visitor center hours can vary. Visit the official site for Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve before your trip.
- Snowshoe rentals are weather-dependent and limited by hours. The Visitor Center often loans snowshoes for free, but availability depends on snow conditions and supply. You can borrow a pair between 9 am and 2:30 pm, Thursdays through Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
- There are no food or gas services inside the park, and nearby options are limited in winter. Bring water and snacks.
- Cell service is limited or nonexistent. Download maps ahead of time.
- Restrooms may be limited. The Visitor Center is the only restroom in winter.
- Pets are not permitted beyond the parking lot. Dogs tear up the groomed track and detract from the skiing experience for others. They may also disturb wildlife.
Getting There
Craters of the Moon is located along US Highway 20/26/93 in central Idaho, between Arco and Carey. In winter, the main entrance and Visitor Center parking lot remain open; all other roads are closed. Winter driving conditions can vary. Check Idaho road conditions before leaving.
Nearest services:
- Arco (gas, groceries) – 18 miles
- Carey – limited services
What We Saw
Snowshoeing the Lava Fields
One of the main winter activities at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is snowshoeing! When the Loop Road closes to vehicles due to snow, the park then opens the road to foot traffic and snowshoe use.
Snowshoe rentals
The Visitor Center offers free snowshoe rentals when conditions allow. Sizes are available for both adults and children.
- Rentals are first-come, first-served, so ask upon arrival to be put on the list if you do not bring your own snowshoes.
- Availability depends on snow depth and weather. They won’t check out shoes if there are unsafe conditions.
- They are available to borrow between 9 am and 2:30 pm, Thursdays through Mondays.
Where You Can Snowshoe
The most common winter route is along the closed Loop Road. This provides: wide, easy terrain with gradual elevation changes. You do share the road with skiiers.
Some marked winter trails may also be available depending on snowpack and staffing. Our 13-year-old went on one of these winter trails himself (which we could see from the road), and we followed along with him as he meandered through the trees.
Because snow covers the sharp lava rock, snowshoeing makes the terrain that is rugged in summer much more accessible and somewhat safer than elsewhere.
Difficulty Level
Snowshoeing here is considered beginner to moderate, depending on how far you travel from the Loop road. The inclines are gradual, and there is very little risk of falling deep or into any snow gaps, making it a safe, fun family activity.
The park rangers will show you how to put on the snowshoes if you need support.
The biggest challenge is wind and the sun. The monument is very open, so dress in layers that are wind-resistant.
What to Wear
Winter conditions can change quickly. Bring:
- Waterproof boots
- Insulated socks
- Windproof outer layer
- Gloves and a hat
- Sunglasses (sun glare off snow is strong)
Walking/Skiing the Loop Road
We visited with our 3-year-old and found the closed Loop Road especially helpful for exploring the park in winter. If you prefer not to snowshoe or require accessibility, walking the road is a great alternative. During our visit, the snow was flat and well-packed, making it manageable to push a stroller. The elevation gain was gradual and easy, and we were able to enjoy the sunny, snowy views while our daughter alternated between riding in the stroller and walking alongside us to play in the snow. The terrain is a bit uneven, but it did not deter us from enjoying the day at all. We probably walked about 3 hours down the road and back again.
The Loop Road is also one of the park’s main ski trails. Those who walk are not to walk over the skiing grooves. These ensure those skiing have a pleasant experience as well.
Visitor Center
The Visitor Center remains open on limited days and hours in winter (typically Thursday–Monday). It is the only heated building and restroom facility available during the season.
Inside you’ll find:
- Exhibits about volcanic geology
- Park maps, current trail conditions, and the gift shop.
- Snowshoe rentals (when available)
- Junior Ranger materials
