Outbound Collective logo

Bike the Loop Road at Craters of the Moon National Monument

Arco, Idaho

Details

Distance

7 miles

Elevation Gain

500 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Sara Sheehy

Road bike through an uncommon landscape of lava, cinder cones, and sagebrush.

Biking Crater of the Moon National Monument's seven mile loop road provides an intimate experience through a wild landscape.

Park at the Visitor's Center. Grab a map and check out the interactive display explaining how Craters of the Moon was formed in the same tectonic event that birthed Yellowstone. 

Hop on your bike and pedal into the park. Be sure to check out Inferno Cone, Spatter Cones, and the Devil's Orchard. The short hike to the Lava Tubes is well worth the effort, but be sure to acquire a free cave permit before leaving the Visitor's Center.

For incredible star photography, camp at the Lava Flow Campground and stay up late to shoot the expansive night sky.

Pro Tip: The loop road closes during the winter (and is tracked for skiing). There is a period of time in the spring when the road is clear but not yet open to cars. This is an awesome time to bike. Check Current Conditions to see road status.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Cycling
Camping
Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Bike the Loop Road at Craters of the Moon National Monument Reviews

Have you done this adventure? Be the first to leave a review!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Backcountry Ski on a Cinder Cone at Craters of the Moon

Hike the North Crater Trail

Hike the Inferno Cone

Stroll Through Devil's Orchard

Hike the Craters of the Moon's Lava Tubes

Hike the Tree Molds Trail

Visit Idaho

Idaho is a picturesque state filled with beautiful scenery and warm, wonderful people. It's an ideal destination for family travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or those just looking for a relaxing getaway.

Learn More