Adventure to Crater Rings, Mountain Home

Join us to re-visit the famous CRATER RINGS near Mountain Home.

The 1262-acre area consists of two "lava lakes" created ~2 million years ago with dimensions approximately 300 feet deep and 3,000 feet in diameter. These twin craters were designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1980. The site is owned by the Bureau of Land Management and is considered part of the beautiful Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey NCA.

After parking at the top of the craters, we will explore the area on foot, including walking partially around the rim and then down a cattle trail to the bottom to try out the interesting acoustics. Be prepared for possible wind (at top) and no protection from the elements. Bring snacks, water, sturdy shoes, hiking poles. Some people may climb out one crater at the opposite end (slope ~ 48%) and others may backtrack and go around, so that we can observe the second crater.

The location is ~45 minutes south of Boise. We will be taking I-84, Exit 74, Simco Road. Follow specific driving instructions. DO NOT FOLLOW GPS directions to the craters.

We are not limiting the number of participants, but the last few miles are appropriate for only high-clearance, 4WD vehicles, so let us know if you have an appropriate vehicle and/or be prepared to do some truck-bed riding.

If group is interested and we have time, we can visit the Cinder Buttes on the way out.

DIRECTIONS: I-84 to Exit 74, Simco Road and go for ~9 miles. Left on (gravel) Cinder Butte Road and go ~5 miles. Right on dirt road for ~1.4 miles and park. This road will need high clearance, but 4WD will probably not be necessary in dry weather. Jeep roads go around the craters, but can also be hiked.