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Hike the Inferno Cone

Arco, Idaho

4.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

1 miles

Elevation Gain

500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Josiah Roe

Perhaps the iconic hike and summit in Craters of the Moon National Monument, the 6,181' Inferno Cone gives panoramic views of the surrounding desolate landscape including views of Big Cinder Butte, Silent Cone, the Devil's Orchard and of the numerous lava flows.

To reach the parking lot at the Inferno Cone Trailhead enter the Craters of the Moon National Monument at the main entrance on the north side of the park off US Highway 26 and go approximately 1.5 miles on the 17 miles Loop Road. 

There will be clear signage indicating the parking lot at the base of the Cone.

From there, take the obvious use trail .5 miles to the summit.

Note: in the winter there may not be someone manning the park gate, but you can purchase a park entrance ticket from the station on the side of the road.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Groups
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Hike the Inferno Cone Reviews

This isn’t much of a hike—more of a scenic overlook—but the coolest part isn’t the view... it’s the rock! The entire cone is made of a type of lava rock that is shiny, porous, & light as a feather. Apparently astronauts train here sometimes because this rock is the closest thing to moon rock we have down here on earth. Super cool! At the top there’s a few benches, some bushes & scrub brush, & a really cool gnarly tree on the far side. Definitely stop & check it out when you’re in Craters!

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Hike the North Crater Trail

Stroll Through Devil's Orchard

Hike the Craters of the Moon's Lava Tubes

Backcountry Ski on a Cinder Cone at Craters of the Moon

Bike the Loop Road at Craters of the Moon National Monument

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.

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