Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in Idaho is like entering an entirely new world. The cinder beds and vegetation create the most interesting and unique landscapes that definitely deserve your attention. One of the best ways to learn about and explore this unique area is on the short and easy Devil’s Orchard Loop Trail. When on this trail, you definitely won’t feel like you are on earth anymore.
Craters of the Moon is one of the most unique destinations in Idaho. This area is essentially large fields of hardened lava flow.
Andreas_Wass/iStock Via Getty Images Plus It is estimated that the volcano’s eruptions occurred nearly 15,000 years ago, with some eruptions occurring just over 2,000 years ago. The eruptions produced both small cinder cones and large lava flows and there are at least 25 cinder cones in the area.
The Devil’s Orchard Trail is one way to see and experience some of this unique history. This trail takes you through a small area of cinder beds and pieces of the North Crater Wall.
Jeffrey Hassert/AllTrails
This is a loop trail and it is only 0.5-miles long — making it short, sweet, and quite scenic. Plus, the trail is paved the entire way, allowing all individuals to explore with ease.
Greg Lucas/AllTrails
Along the way, you will come to informational kiosks. Stop and read each sign to learn a little more about the area and some of the difficulties that arise when protecting such a fragile environment.
Dan Ramirez/AllTrails
You’ll also pass by dead and twisted trees that are quite fascinating and you’ll quickly understand how this trail received its name.
Greg Lucas/AllTrails
Take the time to smell the flowers! Keep your eyes out for pops of color that will line your path. You may see all types of wildflowers adding a splash to the sea of hard lava.
Dan Ramirez/AllTrails
The Devil’s Orchard Loop Trail in Idaho is unique, educational, and quite beautiful. It’s one trail where you’ll definitely feel like you are on another planet.
Ayse Trail/AllTrails
Have you been on the Devil’s Orchard Trail at Craters of the Moon? If so, what did you think of this short and easy loop trail? Did you feel like you were in another world? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments!
Andreas_Wass/iStock Via Getty Images Plus
It is estimated that the volcano’s eruptions occurred nearly 15,000 years ago, with some eruptions occurring just over 2,000 years ago. The eruptions produced both small cinder cones and large lava flows and there are at least 25 cinder cones in the area.
Jeffrey Hassert/AllTrails
Greg Lucas/AllTrails
Dan Ramirez/AllTrails
Ayse Trail/AllTrails
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Address: Devil’s Orchard Trail, 1266, N Crater Trail, Arco, ID 83213, USA
