View source for Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve - New World Encyclopedia

 

{{Infobox_protected_area | name = Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
  | iucn_category = III
  | image = US_Locator_Blank.svg
  | caption = 
  | locator_x = 58
  | locator_y = 47
  | location = Southern [[Idaho]], [[United States|USA]]
  | nearest_city = [[Arco, Idaho]]
  | lat_degrees = 43
  | lat_minutes = 25
  | lat_seconds = 0
  | lat_direction = N
  | long_degrees = 113
  | long_minutes = 31
  | long_seconds = 0
  | long_direction = W
  | area = 750,000 acres (3,035.14 km²)<ref> ''National Park Service,'' [http://www.nps.gov/crmo/parkmgmt/index.htm Craters of the Moon.] Retrieved May 16, 2008.</ref>
  | established = Monument: May 2, 1924<br/>Preserve: August 21, 2002
  | visitation_num = 183,111
  | visitation_year = 2004
  | governing_body = [[National Park Service]] and [[Bureau of Land Management|BLM]]
}}
'''Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve''' is a [[U.S. National Monument]] and [[national preserve]] located in the [[Snake River |Snake River Plain]] of central [[Idaho]]. The features in this [[protected area]] are [[volcano|volcanic]] and represent one of the best preserved [[flood basalt]] areas in the continental [[United States]]. 

The Monument was established on May 2, 1924. A Presidential proclamation in November 2000 greatly expanded the Monument area. The [[National Park Service]] portions of the expanded Monument were designated as ''Craters of the Moon National Preserve'' in August 2002. The area is managed cooperatively by the National Park Service and the [[Bureau of Land Management]] (BLM). Eighty percent of the monument is designated wilderness, accessible only on foot.

The Monument and Preserve together encompass three major [[lava field]]s and about 400 square miles (1,000 km²) of [[sagebrush]] steppe [[grassland]]s, with a total area of 1,180 square miles (3,035 km²). All three lava fields lie along the [[Great Rift of Idaho]], with some of the best examples of open [[rift (geology)|rift]] cracks in the world, including the deepest known on [[Earth]]) at 800 feet (240 m). 
{{toc}}
[[Lava]] flows that once destroyed everything in their paths have not only formed a spectacular landscape, but serve to protect the last refuges of intact sagebrush steppe communities on the Snake River Plain. A surprising variety of [[plant]] and [[animal]] life exists in Craters of the Moon, having adapted to the harsh environment. In that sense, this Monument serves as a natural laboratory, providing the environment for scientists to study the incredible adaptability of nature. 

==Geography ==
[[Image:Craters of the Moon within Idaho.jpg|thumb|225px|Craters of the Moon, Idaho]]

The rugged landscape of Craters of the Moon remains remote and undeveloped with only one paved [[road]] across the northern end. Located in south-central [[Idaho]] midway between [[Boise, Idaho|Boise]] and [[Yellowstone National Park]], the monument includes 53,545 acres (216.69 km²) in the Developed Area (the extent of the national monument before the preserve was added) and the visitor center is 5,900 feet (1800 m) above [[sea level]]. Combined [[U.S. Highway system|U.S. Highway]] [[U.S. Highway 20|20]]-[[U.S. Highway 26|26]]-[[U.S. Highway 93|93]] cuts through the north-western part of the monument and provides access to it.

The total average precipitation in the Craters of the Moon area is between 15 to 20 inches (400 to 500 mm) per year (lower elevation areas near the [[Snake River]] average only 10–11 inches of precipitation annually) and most of that is lost in cracks in the [[basalt]], only to emerge later in springs and seeps in the walls of the [[Snake River Canyon (Idaho)|Snake River Canyon]]. Older [[lava]] fields on the plain have been invaded by [[drought]]-resistant [[plant]]s such as [[sagebrush]], while younger fields only have a seasonal and very sparse cover of vegetation. From a distance, this cover disappears almost entirely, giving an impression of utter, black desolation. Repeated lava flows over the last 15,000 years have raised the land surface enough to expose it to the prevailing southwesterly winds, which help to keep the area dry. Together, these conditions make life on the lava field difficult.

===Environmental conditions===
[[Image:Scoria field at Craters of the Moon NM-750px.JPG|thumb|left|This scoria field shows typical conditions at Craters of the Moon.]]
All [[plant]] and [[animal]] life in and around Craters of the Moon are under great environmental stress due to constant dry [[wind]]s and heat absorbing black lavas that tend to quickly sap [[water]] from living things. Summer [[soil]] temperatures often exceed 150 °F (65 °C) and plant cover is generally less than 5 percent on [[volcanic cone#cinder cone|cinder cone]]s and about 15 percent over the entire monument. Adaptation is therefore the secret to survival in this [[semi-arid]] harsh [[climate]]. 

[[Water]] is usually found only deep inside holes at the bottom of blow-out craters. The black soil on and around cinder cones does not hold moisture for long, making it difficult for plants to establish themselves. [[Soil]] particles first develop from direct rock decomposition by [[lichen]]s and typically collect in crevices in lava flows. Successively more complex plants then colonize the microhabitat created by the increasingly productive soil. 

The shaded north slopes of cinder cones provide more protection from direct [[sun]]light and prevailing southwesterly winds and also have a more persistent snow cover, which is an important water source in early spring. These parts of cinder cones are therefore colonized by plants first. 

===Plants===
[[Image:Monkeyflower at Craters of the Moon National Monument.jpeg|thumb|Monkeyflowers]]
[[Image:Syringa in North Crater lava flow crack2.jpeg|thumb|[[Lilac]] in North Crater lava flow crack]]
[[image:Drawf Buckweat at Craters of the Moon National Monument.jpeg|thumb|Dwarf Buckweat]]
[[Image:Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel CO.JPG|thumb|Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel]]
[[Wildflower]]s add a bit of color to the dark and barren landscape from early May to late September, though most have disappeared by late August. Moisture from [[snow]]melt along with some [[rain]]fall in late spring kick-starts the [[germination]] of annual plants, including wildflowers. Most of these plants complete their entire [[biological life cycle|life cycle]] in the few months each year that moisture levels are high. The onset of summer decreases the number of wildflowers and by autumn, only the tiny yellow [[flower]]s of sagebrush and rabbitbrush remain. Some wildflowers that grow in the area;
*[[Arrow-leaved Balsamroot]]
*[[Bitterroot]]
*[[Blazing Star (flower)|Blazing Star]]
*[[Desert Parsley]]
*[[Dwarf Monkeyflower]]
*[[Paintbrush (plant)|Paintbrush]]
*[[Scorpionweed]]
*[[Scabland Penstemon]]
*[[Wild Onion]]

When wildflowers are not in bloom, most of the vegetation is found in semi-hidden pockets and consists of [[pine tree]]s, [[cedar]]s, [[juniper]]s, and [[sagebrush]]. Strategies used by plants to cope with the adverse conditions include;
* Drought-tolerance by physiological adaptations such as the ability to survive extreme [[dehydration]] or the ability to extract water from very dry soil. Sagebrush and [[Antelope Briterbrush]] are examples. 
* Drought-avoidance by having small, hairy, or succulent leaves to minimize moisture loss or otherwise conserve water. Hairs on scorpionweed, the succulent parts of the [[Pricklypear Cactus]], and the small leaves of the [[Wire Lettuce]] are all local examples. 
* Drought-escape by growing in small crevices or near persistent water supplies, or by staying dormant for about 95 percent of the year. [[Moss]]es and [[fern]]s in the area grow near constant water sources such as natural potholes and seeps from [[ice cave]]s. Scabland Penstemon, [[Fernleaf Fleabane]], and [[Gland Cinquefoil]] grow in shallow crevices. [[Syringa]], [[Bush Rockspirea]], [[Tansybush]], and even [[Limber Pine]] grow in large crevices. While Dwarf Monkey flowers carry out their entire [[biological life cycle|life cycle]] during the short wet part of the year and survive in [[seed]] form the rest of the time. 

A common plant seen on the lava field is the [[Dwarf Buckweat]], a 4 inch (100 mm) tall [[flowering plant]] with a 3 foot (1 m) wide root system. The root system monopolizes soil moisture in its immediate area, resulting in individual plants that are evenly spaced. Consequently, many visitors have asked [[park ranger]]s if the buckwheat were systematically planted. 

Gaps were sometimes left unmolested by lava but were nonetheless completely surrounded by it. These literal islands of habitat are called [[kipuka]]s, a [[Hawaiian language|Hawaiian]] name used for older land surrounded by younger lava. Carey Kipuka is one such area in the southernmost part of the monument and is used as a benchmark to measure how plant cover has changed in less pristine parts of southern Idaho.

===Animals===
Years of cataloging by [[biology|biologists]] and park rangers have recorded 375 [[species]] of [[plant]]s, 2,000 [[insect]]s, 8 [[reptile]]s, 169 [[bird]]s, 48 [[mammal]]s, and even one [[amphibia]]n (the [[Western Toad]]). [[Brown Bear]]s once roamed this lava field but long ago became locally [[extinction|extinct]]. [[Mule Deer]], [[Bobcat]]s, [[Great horned owl]]s, [[Prairie Falcon]]s, and [[Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel]]s remain. Traditional [[livestock]] grazing continues within the grass/shrublands administered by the Bureau of Land Management. 

====Mule Deer====
In May 1980, wildlife researcher Brad Griffith of the [[University of Idaho]] began a three year study to mark and count the [[Mule Deer]] in the monument. The [[National Park Service]] was concerned that the local herd might grow so large that it would damage its [[habitat (ecology)|habitat]]. Griffith found that this group of Mule Deer has developed a totally unique [[drought]] evasion strategy for its [[species]]. 

The [[deer]] arrive in the southern part of the pre-2000 extent of the monument mid-April each year once winter snows have melted away enough to allow for foraging. He found that by late summer plants in the area have already matured and dried to the point that they can no longer provide enough moisture to sustain the deer. In late July, after about 12 days above 80 °F (27 °C) and warm nights above 50 °F (10 °C) the herd migrates 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km) north to the Pioneer Mountains, to obtain water from free-flowing streams and shade themselves in [[aspen]] and [[Douglas-fir]] groves. Rain in late September prompts the herd to return to the monument to feed on [[bitterbrush]] until snow in November triggers them to migrate back to their winter range. This herd, therefore, has a dual summer range. It is also very productive, with one of the highest fawn survival rates of any herd in the species. 

Afternoon winds usually die down in the evening, prompting behavioral modifications in the herd. The deer avoid the dry wind by being more active at night when the wind is not blowing. In 1991, there was a three-year average of 420 Mule Deer.

==Nearby protected areas==
*[[Yellowstone National Park]] is world famous for its [[geyser]]s, [[mudpot]]s, [[Yellowstone Canyon]], [[waterfall]]s, and wildlife such as the [[American Bison]] and reintroduced [[wolf|wolves]]. 
*[[Grand Teton National Park]] includes the steep, [[glacier|glacially]]-carved [[Teton Range]], [[plate tectonics|tectonically]]-created [[Jackson Hole]] valley, and a string of [[moraine]]-impounded lakes. 
*[[Nez Perce National Historical Park]] has 24 [[archeology|archaeological]] sites in north-central Idaho of the [[Nez Perce]] culture. 
*[[Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument]] protects [[Pliocene]]-aged [[fossil]] sites along the [[Snake River]]. 
*[[City of Rocks National Reserve]] contains various [[monolith]]s, spires, and domes used by the Northern [[Shoshone]] and white emigrants on the [[California Trail]]. [[Rock climbing]] is a popular activity in the reserve.

==Geology==
[[Image:Craters of the Moon from space.jpg|thumb|left|225px||LANDSAT satellite photo showing the entire Great Rift volcanic zone and its three lava fields.]]
[[Image:Kings Bowl and Great Rift from air.jpg|thumb|left|225px|Kings Bowl and Great Rift from air. King's Bowl is a [[phreatic explosion]] pit 280 feet (85 m) long, 100 feet (30 m) wide, and 100 feet (30 m) deep, caused by lava coming in contact with groundwater producing a steam explosion 2,200 years ago. (NPS photo)]]

The Craters of the Moon Lava Field spreads across 618 square miles (1,601 km²) and is the largest mostly [[Holocene]]-aged basaltic lava field in the lower 48 [[U.S.]] states. The Monument and Preserve contain more than 25 [[volcano|volcanic]] cones, including outstanding examples of [[volcanic cone|spatter cones]]. Sixty distinct lava flows form the Craters of the Moon Lava Field ranging in age from 15,000 to just 2,000 years old. The Kings Bowl and Wapi lava fields, both about 2,200 years old, are part of the National Preserve. 

Craters of the Moon Lava Field reaches southeastward from the [[Pioneer Mountains]]. This [[lava field]] is the largest of several large and recent beds of lava that erupted from the 53 mile (85 km) long, southeast to northwest trending, Great Rift volcanic zone; a line of weakness in the [[Earth]]'s crust created by [[Basin and Range]] rifting. Together with fields from other fissures, they make up the [[Lava Beds of Idaho]], which in turn are located within the much larger [[Snake River Plain]] volcanic province (the Great Rift extends nearly across the entire Snake River Plain). 

Ample evidence has prompted [[geology|geologists]] to theorize that the [[Snake River Plain]] is a volcanic province that was created by a series of cataclysmic, [[caldera]]-forming eruptions which began about 15 million years ago. A migrating [[Hotspot (geology)|hotspot]] thought to now exist under [[Yellowstone National Park]] has been implicated. This hot spot was under the Craters of the Moon area some 10 to 11 million years ago but "moved" as the [[North American Plate]] migrated southwestward (actually the hot spot stays in the same place while the overlying continent of [[North America]] moves). Pressure from the hot spot heaves the land surface up, creating [[fault-block mountain]]s. After the hot spot passes, the pressure is released and the land subsides. 

Leftover heat from this hot spot was later liberated by [[Basin and Range]]-associated rifting and created the many overlapping lava flows that make up the Lava Beds of Idaho. The largest rift zone is the appropriately named [[Great Rift]] and it is from this fissure system that Craters of the Moon, Kings Bowl, and Wapi lava fields were created. 

In spite of their fresh appearance, the oldest flows in the Craters of the Moon Lava Field are 15,000 years old and the youngest erupted about 2,000 years ago, according to Mel Kuntz and other [[USGS]] geologists. Nevertheless, the volcanic fissures at Craters of the Moon are considered to be dormant, not extinct, and are expected to erupt sometime during the next thousand years. There are eight major eruptive periods recognized in the Craters of the Moon Lava Field. Each period lasted about 1,000 years or less and were separated by relatively quiet periods that lasted between 500 to as long as 3,000 years. Individual lava flows were up to 30 miles (50 km) long, with the Blue Dragon Flow being the longest. 

Kings Bowl Lava Field erupted during a single fissure eruption on the southern part of the Great Rift approximately 2,250 years ago. This eruption probably lasted from only a few hours to a few days. The field preserves explosion pits, lava lakes, squeeze-ups, basalt mounds, and an ash blanket. Wapi Lava Field probably formed from a fissure eruption simultaneously with the eruption of the Kings Bowl field. With more prolonged activity over a period of months to a few years, the Wapi field formed a low [[shield volcano]]. The Bear Trap lava tube, located between the Craters of the Moon and the Wapi lava fields, is a [[cave]] system more than 15 miles (25 km) long. The lava tube is remarkable for its length and for the number of well preserved lava-cave features, such as lava stalactites and curbs, the latter marking high stands of the flowing lava forever frozen on the lava tube walls. The lava tubes and [[pit crater]]s of the monument are known for their unusual preservation of winter ice and snow into the hot summer months, due to shielding from the [[sun]] and the insulating properties of the basalt. 
[[Image:Rafted parts of North Crater.jpeg|thumb|250px|Cinder crags from North Crater on the North Crater Flow]]
A typical eruption along the Great Rift and similar basaltic rift systems throughout the world begins with a curtain of very fluid [[lava]] shooting up along a segment of the rift. As the eruption continues, pressure and heat decrease and the chemistry of the lava becomes slightly more [[silica]] rich. The curtain of lava responds by breaking apart into separate vents. Various types of [[volcano]]s may form at these vents; gas-rich pulverized lava creates [[cinder cone]]s (such as Inferno Cone—stop 4) and pasty lava blobs form [[spatter cone]]s (such as Spatter Cones—stop 5). Later stages of an eruption push lava streams out through the side or bottom of cinder cones (usually ending the life of the cinder cone; North Crater, Watchmen, and Sheep Trail Butte are notable exceptions). This will sometimes breach part of the cone and carry it away as large and craggy blocks of cinder (as seen at North Crater Flow—stop 2—and Devils Orchard—stop 3). Solid crust forms over lava streams and [[lava tube]]s—a type of cave—are created when lava vacates its course (great examples can be seen at the Cave Area—stop 7). 

Geologists feared that a large [[earthquake]] that shook [[Borah Peak]], Idaho's tallest [[mountain]], in 1983, would restart volcanic activity at Craters of the Moon, though this proved not to be the case. Geologists predict that the area will experience its next eruption some time in the next 900 years, with the most likely period in the next 100 years.

==Human history==
===Pre to early history===
[[Paleo-Indians]] were in the area about 12,000 years ago but did not leave much [[archaeology|archaeological]] evidence. Northern [[Shoshone]] created trails through the Craters of the Moon Lava Field during their summer migrations from the [[Snake River]] to the [[Camas Praire]], west of the lava field. Stone windbreaks at Indian Tunnel were used to protect campsites from the dry summer wind and are among the most obvious signs of their temporary presence (no evidence exists for permanent habitation by any [[Native American]] group). A [[Hunter-gatherer|hunting and gathering]] culture, the Northern Shoshone pursued [[Wapiti]], [[bear]]s, [[American Bison]], [[cougar]]s, and [[Bighorn Sheep]]—all large game that no longer range the area. The most recent eruptions ended about 2,100 years ago and were likely witnessed by the Shoshone people. Shoshone legend speaks of a serpent on a [[mountain]] who, angered by [[lightning]], coiled around and squeezed the mountain until liquid rock flowed, fire shot from cracks, and the mountain exploded.<ref>''U.S. Department of the Interior; Bureau of Land Management,'' Wilson Butte Cave.</ref>

Caucasian [[Trapping (Animal)|fur trappers]] avoided the lava field area below the Pioneer Mountains by following Indian trails. Early pioneers who sought [[gold]], affordable [[farm]]land to raise [[agriculture|crops]], or cheap ranch land to range [[cattle]] also avoided the lava fields and considered them useless. 

===Goodale's Cutoff===
[[Image:Big Southern Butte at Craters of the Moon NM-750px.JPG|thumb|300px|Big Southern Butte was used as a landmark by pioneers.]]
Pioneers traveling in [[wagon train]]s on the [[Oregon Trail]] in the 1850s and 1860s later used Indian trails that skirted the lava flows in what today is the northern part of the monument, as part of an alternate route called [[Goodale's Cutoff]]. The cutoff was created to reduce the possibility of ambush by [[Shoshone]] warriors along the [[Snake River]], such as the one that occurred at Massacre Rocks (memorialized in Idaho's [[Massacre Rocks State Park]]).

Following the discovery of gold in the [[Salmon River]] area of Idaho a group of emigrants persuaded an [[Illinois]]-born trapper and trader named [[Tim Goodale]] to lead them through the cutoff. A large [[wagon train]] left in July 1862, and met up with more [[wagon]]s at Craters of the Moon Lava Field. Numbering 795 men and 300 women and children, the unusually large group was relatively unmolested during its journey and named the cutoff for their guide. Improvements to the cutoff such as adding a [[ferry]] to cross the Snake River made it into a popular alternate route of the Oregon Trail. 

===Exploration and early study===
In 1879, two Arco cattlemen named Arthur Ferris and J.W. Powell became the first people to explore the lava fields. They were investigating its possible use for [[grazing]] and watering cattle but found the area to be unsuitable and left. 

[[United States Army]] Captain and western explorer [[B.L.E. Bonneville]] visited the lava fields as he toured the West in the nineteenth century, recording his experiences in his diaries. [[Washington Irving]] later used Bonneville's diaries to write the ''[[Adventures of Captain Bonneville]],'' saying this unnamed lava field is a place "where nothing meets the eye but a desolate and awful waste, where no grass grows nor water runs, and where nothing is to be seen but lava."  

In 1901 and 1903, [[Israel Russell]] became the first geologist to study this area while surveying it for the [[United States Geological Survey]] (USGS). In 1910, [[Samuel Paisley]] continued Russell's work, later becoming the monument's first custodian. Others followed and in time much of the mystery surrounding this and the other Lava Beds of Idaho was lifted. 

The few non-Natives who visited the area in the nineteenth century created local [[legend]]s regarding its similarity to the surface of the [[Moon]]. Geologists Harold T. Sterns coined the name "Craters of the Moon" in 1923, while trying to convince the National Park Service to recommend protection of the area as a national monument.

===Limbert's expedition===
[[Image:Craters of the Moon National Monument-10.jpg|thumb|300px|The black soil on Inferno Cone exhibits the properties Limbert wrote about.]]
[[Robert Limbert]], a sometime [[taxidermy|taxidermist]], tanner, and furrier from [[Boise, Idaho]], after hearing stories from fur trappers about "strange things they had seen while ranging the region," explored the area in the 1920s, which he described as "practically unknown and unexplored." 

Limbert wrote: 
<blockquote>I had made two trips into the northern end, covering practically the same region as that traversed by a Geological Survey party in 1901. My first was a hiking and camping trip with Ad Santel (the wrestler), Dr. Dresser, and Albert Jones; the second was with Wes Watson and Era Martin (ranchers living about four miles [6 km] from the northern edge). The peculiar features seen on those trips led me to take a third trip across the region in the hope that even more interesting phenomena might be encountered.<ref>Robert W. Limbert, ''Among the "Craters of the Moon": An Account of the First Expeditions Through the Remarkable Volcanic Lava Beds of Southern Idaho'' (National Geographic Society, 1924).</ref></blockquote>

Limbert set out on his third and most ambitious foray to the area in 1924, this time with W.C. Cole and an [[Airedale Terrier]] to accompany him. Starting from Minidoka, Idaho, they explored what is now the monument area from south to north passing Two Point Butte, Echo Crater, Big Craters, North Crater Flow, and out of the lava field through what was then known as the [[Yellowstone Park and Lincoln Highway]]. Taking the dog along was a mistake, Limbert wrote, "for after three days' travel his feet were worn and bleeding."
 
<blockquote>The "Valley of the Moon" lies in a region literally combed with underground caves and passages, bewildering in their immensity, mystifying in their variety of strange formations, where there are natural bridges as yet unknown to geographers, where bear tracks hundreds of years old may be traced for miles across cinder flats. Here are craters of dormant volcanoes half a mile wide and seemingly bottomless, huge cups in which the five-story Owyhee hotel might be placed to resemble a lone sugar loaf in a huge bowl. Here are strange ice caves with stalactites and ice-encrusted walls, caves that contain as much ice in the middle of August as they do in the winter (Robert Limbert, 1924).<ref>Sarah Baumann, [http://www.earlham.edu/~baumasa/COTM.htm Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Snake River Basin, Idaho,] ''Earlham College''. Retrieved May 16, 2008.</ref></blockquote>

A series of [[newspaper]] and [[magazine]] articles authored by Limbert were later published about this and previous treks, increasing public awareness of the area. The most famous of these was an article that appeared in a 1924 issue of ''[[National Geographic]]'' where he called the area "Craters of the Moon," helping to solidify the use of that name. In the article he had this to say about the [[cobalt]] blue of the Blue Dragon Flows: 
<blockquote>It is the play of light at sunset across this lava that charms the spectator. It becomes a twisted, wavy sea. In the moonlight its glazed surface has a silvery sheen. With changing conditions of light and air, it varies also, even while one stands and watches. It is a place of color and silence….</blockquote>

===Protection and later history===
[[Image:Carey Kipuka.jpg|thumb|Carey Kipuka from the air.]] 
In large part due to Limbert's work, Craters of the Moon National Monument was proclaimed on May 2, 1924, by U.S. President [[Calvin Coolidge]] to "preserve the unusual and weird volcanic formations." The [[Craters Inn]] and several cabins were built in 1927 for convenience of visitors. The Mission 66 Program initiated construction of today's road system, visitor center, shop, campground, and comfort station in 1956, and in 1959, the ''Craters of the Moon Natural History Association'' was formed to assist the monument in educational activities. The addition of an island of vegetation completely surrounded by lava known as Carey Kipuka increased the size of the monument by 5,360 acres (22 km²) in 1962.
[[Image:Craters of the Moon management sections map.jpg|thumb|left|225px|Management sections of the Monument.]]
The monument has continued to be enlarged since that time, and on October 23, 1970, the [[United States Congress]] set aside a large part of it, 43,243 acres (175.00 km²), as [[Craters of the Moon National Wilderness]], protecting it under the [[National Wilderness Preservation System]]. 

Much later [[NASA]] visited the Earth's moon through the [[Apollo program]] and found that its surface does not closely resemble this part of Idaho. NASA [[astronaut]]s discovered that actual moon craters were almost all created by impacting [[meteorite]]s while their namesakes on [[Earth]] were created by [[volcanic eruption]]s. One thing is very similar between the two places; they are both desolate. Apollo astronauts, as a matter of fact, performed part of their training at Craters of the Moon Lava Field. There they learned how to look for and collect good [[rock (geology)|rock]] specimens in an unfamiliar and harsh environment.

For many years, [[geology|geologists]], [[biology|biologists]], and [[environmentalism|environmentalists]] have advocated for expansion of the monument and its transformation into a national park. Part of that goal was reached in 2000, when the monument was expanded 13-fold from 53,545 acres (216.69 km²) to its current size in order to encompass the entire Great Rift zone and its three lava fields. The entire addition is known as the Backcountry Area while the two older parts are called the Developed Area and Wilderness Area. Opposition by cattle interests and hunters to a simple expansion plan led to the compromise of designating the addition a [[national preserve]], which allows hunting, not ordinarily permitted in national parks and monuments in the U.S. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is co-managed by the [[National Park Service]] and the [[Bureau of Land Management]].

==Recreational activities==
A series of fissure vents, cinder cones, [[volcanic cone#spatter cone|spatter cone]]s, rafted blocks, and overlapping [[lava flow]]s are accessible from the 7 mile-long Loop Drive. [[Wildflower]]s, shrubs, [[tree]]s, and wild [[animal]]s can be seen by hiking on one of the many trails in the monument or by utilizing one of the turn-off parking areas. More rugged [[hiking]] opportunities are available in the Craters of the Moon Wilderness Area and Backcountry Area, the [[road]]less southern and major part of the monument. 

Ranger-led walks are available in summer and cover different topics such as wildlife, flowers, plants, or geology. Self-guiding tours and displays are available year-round and are easily accessible from the Loop Drive. 
[[Image:Craters of the Moon Loop Drive map.jpg|thumb|300px|Craters of the Moon Loop Drive map]]
#The ''Visitor Center'' is located near the monument's only entrance. Various displays and publications along with a short film about the geology of the area help to orient visitors. 
#A less than 1/4 mile (400 m) long paved trail at ''North Crater Flow'' goes through the Blue Dragon Lava Flow, which formed about 2200 years ago, making it one of the youngest lava flows on the Craters of the Moon Lava Field. This lava is named for the purplish-blue tint that tiny pieces of [[obsidian]] (volcanic [[glass]]) on its surface exhibit. Good examples of pahoehoe (roppy), aa (jagged), and some block lava are readily visible along with large rafted crater wall fragments. A steep 1/2 mile (800 m) long trail continues on to the North Crater overlook on top of the 440 foot (134 m) tall, 2300 year old cinder cone. The rafted crater wall fragments seen on the flow trail were once part of this cinder cone but were torn away when the volcano's lava-filled crater was breached. A 1.5 mile (2.4 km) long trail includes the 1/2 mile (800 m) long overlook trail but continues on through the crater and to the Big Craters/Spatter Cones parking lot (see below).
#''Devils Orchard'' is a group of lava transported cinder cone fragments (also called monoliths or cinder crags) that stand in cinders. Like the blocks at stop 2, they were once part of the North Crater cinder cone but broke off during an eruption of lava. A 1/2 mile (800 m) log paved loop trial through the formations and trees of the "orchard" is available. The interpretive displays on the trail emphasize [[human]] impacts to the area. 
#:[[image:North Crater cinder cone and flow-1200px.jpeg|thumb|400px|North Crater cinder cone and flow]]
#:[[Image:Craters of the Moon National Monument from Inferno Cone-2000px.jpg|thumb|400px|Craters of the Moon National Monument seen from Inferno Cone Viewpoint.]]
#''Inferno Cone Viewpoint'' is located on top of Inferno Cone cinder cone. A short but steep trail up the cinder cone leads to an overlook of the entire monument. From there the Spatter Cones can be seen just to the south along with a large part of the Great Rift. In the distance is the 800 foot (240 m) tall, approximately 6000 year old Big Cinder Butte, one of the world's largest, purely [[basalt]]ic, cinder cones. Further away are the Pioneer Mountains (behind the Visitor Center) and beyond the monument are the [[White Knob Mountains]], the [[Lost River Range]], and the [[Lemhi Range]]. 
#''Big Craters and Spatter Cones'' sit directly along the local part of the Great Rift fissure. Spatter cones are created by accumulations of pasty gas-poor lava as they erupt from a vent. Big Craters is a cinder cone complex located less than 1/4 mile (400 m) up a steep foot trail.
#''Tree Molds'' is an area within the Craters of the Moon Wilderness where lava flows overran part of a [[forest]]. The trees were incinerated but as some of them burned they released enough water to cool the lava to form a cast. Some of these casts survived the eruption and mark the exact location and shape of the burning trees in the lava. Both holes and horizontal molds were left, some still showing shapes indicative of [[bark]]. The actual Tree Molds area is located a mile (1.6 km) from the Tree Molds parking lot and [[picnic]] area off a moderately difficult wilderness trail. This trail continues past the Tree Molds and 3 miles (5 km) further into the wilderness area before gradually disappearing near Echo Crater. A pull off on the spur road leading to the Tree Molds area presents the Lava Cascades, a frozen river of Blue Dragon Flow lava that temporarily pooled in the Big Sink. 
#''Cave Area'' is the final stop on Loop Drive and, as the name indicates, has a collection of lava tube [[cave]]s. Formed from the Blue Dragon Flow, the caves are located a half mile (800 m) from the parking lot and include,
::*Dewdrop Cave,
::*Boy Scout Cave,
::*Beauty Cave,
::*Surprise Cave, and 
::*Indian Tunnel. 

Craters of the Moon Campground has 52 sites—none of which can be reserved in advance. [[Camping]] facilities are basic but do include water, restrooms, [[charcoal]] grills, and trash containers. [[National Park Service]] rangers present evening programs at the campground amphitheater in the summer. 

Backcountry [[hiking]] is available in the 68 square mile (180 km²) Craters of the Moon Wilderness and the much larger Backcountry Area beyond (added in 2000). Only two trails enter the [[wilderness area]] and even those stop after a few miles or kilometers. From there most hikers follow the Great Rift and explore its series of seldom-visited volcanic features. All overnight backcountry hikes require registration with a ranger. No drinking water is available in the backcountry and the dry climate quickly dehydrates hikers. Avoiding summer heat and winter cold are therefore recommended by rangers. Pets, camp fires, and all mechanized vehicles, including bicycles, are not allowed in the wilderness area. 

Skiing is allowed on the Loop Drive after it is closed to traffic in late November due to [[snow drift]]s. Typically there are 18 inches (46 cm) of snow by January and 3 feet (90 cm) by March. [[Cross-country skiing]] off of Loop Drive is allowed but may be dangerous due to sharp lava and hidden holes under the snow. [[Blizzard]]s and other inclement [[weather]] may occur.
<center><gallery>
Image:Lavabeds.jpg|Lava Beds
image:Devils Orchard at Craters of the Moon National Monument.jpeg|Devils Orchard
image:Spatter Cones at Craters of the Moon National Monument.jpeg|Spatter Cones 
Image:North Crater in winter.jpg|North Crater in winter (NPS photo)
</gallery></center>

==Notes==
<references/>

==References==
* Henderson, Paul, David Clark, and John Dawson. ''Around the Loop: A Guide to the Roads & Trails of Craters of the Moon, National Monument''. Arco, Idaho: Craters of the Moon Natural History Association, 1986. 
* Kiver, Eugene P., David V. Harris, and David V. Harris. ''Geology of U.S. Parklands''. New York: J. Wiley, 1999. ISBN 0471332186
* ''National Park Service''. [https://www.nps.gov/crmo/index.htm Craters of the Moon National Monument]. 2000. Retrieved May 7, 2020.
* United States. ''Craters of the Moon: A Guide to Craters of the Moon, National Monument, Idaho''. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Dept. of the Interior, 1991.

==External links==
All links retrieved January 11, 2024.

* [http://www.nps.gov/crmo/ Craters of the Moon.]
* [http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=2001_cfr_3v1&docid=3CFR7373.pdf Boundary Enlargement of the Craters of the Moon National Monument.]

[[Category:History]]
[[Category:Geography]]
[[Category:United States]]

{{credit|210899318}}