Guided Full-Day Tour to Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

If you’re planning a visit to Idaho and want to see something truly unique, a guided full-day tour of Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve could be just what you need. This experience promises to take you through otherworldly volcanic landscapes, with expert guides leading the way. From the moment we read about this tour, a few things stood out—particularly the chance to learn about the area’s volcanic activity and see incredible panoramic views from Inferno Cone.

What we really like is how personalized these small group tours are—more attention from the guide makes the experience more engaging and insightful. Plus, the convenience of pickup from Twin Falls accommodations removes a lot of the usual hassle. On the flip side, the price of $169 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering the tour’s duration of about 7 to 8 hours, but when you consider the included stops and expert narration, it can be quite worth it.

This tour tends to attract travelers eager to see unusual geological formations and learn about how the Apollo astronauts used the lunar-like terrain to prepare for moon landings. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy outdoor exploration, geology, and scenic vistas, but it’s also a good pick for anyone looking for a comprehensive, guided day trip that covers a lot of ground.

Key Points:

• Small group size means more personalized attention from your guide.
• Expert guides provide detailed explanations, making the experience educational and engaging.
• Hassle-free pickup from Twin Falls makes logistics easy, especially if you’re staying locally.
• Diverse stops include the visitor center, lava fields, cones, tunnels, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Value for the price: includes all fees, a boxed lunch, bottled water, and transportation.
• Ideal for geology buffs and those interested in volcanic landscapes and lunar scenery.

The Experience Breakdown

Starting at Robert Lambert Visitor Center

Your day begins with a visit to the Robert Lambert Visitor Center, which is more than just a greeting point. It’s an interactive space designed to get you excited about what’s ahead. Expect films, exhibits, and ranger-led presentations that set the scene for the volcanic wonderland you’re about to explore. Here, you can pick up a map and stamp your passport if you’re collecting those little reminders of your travels.

Traveling with a guide ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed by the exhibits; instead, you’ll get tailored insights that bring the landscape to life. The visitor center lasts around 45 minutes, providing a comfortable intro before the outdoor adventures begin.

North Crater Flow Trail

Next, you’ll head to the North Crater Flow, a short 1/4 mile paved trail that crosses one of the youngest lava flows in the area. This is a great spot for seeing crater fragments rafted here by lava and for taking a quick walk among the volcanic rocks. The trail is relatively easy, making it accessible to most visitors, and the surrounding spring flowers and wildlife create a striking contrast to the black lava. It’s one of those places where you really get a sense of the raw power of volcanic activity.

Devils Orchard

One of the quirkiest spots on the tour is Devil’s Orchard. This half-mile paved walk takes you through a landscape dotted with island-like lava fragments amid cinders. The terrain is surreal and offers some fantastic photo opportunities. As you wander, you’ll notice signs prompting you to think about conservation and preservation, adding an educational layer to your visit.

Many previous guests mention how thought-provoking this stop is, with one reviewer describing it as “a sea of cinders with weird features” that really makes you appreciate the uniqueness of the monument. Plus, walking here is quite manageable and offers a chance to explore at your own pace.

Inferno Cone

Arguably the highlight of the trip, climbing Inferno Cone offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. This ancient cinder cone volcano is just a half-mile round trip, but it’s a steady climb with about 160 feet of elevation gain. Once at the top, you’ll understand why this spot is so popular—being able to look out over the terrain that looks almost like a lunar landscape is quite a sight.

Guests often rave about this part, with one reviewer saying, “Walking up the infernal cone was a very unique experience”—and we agree. It’s a tangible way to appreciate the scale of volcanic activity that shaped this area.

Arco: Indian Tunnel and Spatter Cones

The tour continues with stops in Arco, where you’ll explore the Indian Tunnel—an impressive lava tunnel that you can walk into, with collapsed sections allowing light to shine through. Climb through to the top of the tunnel and step out onto ancient lava fields. This is not just a walk through a tunnel; it’s an adventure that keeps things exciting.

Following that, you’ll visit the Spatter Cones, two miniature volcanoes called Snow Cone and Spatter Cone. These formations are the final stages of a fissure eruption, throwing lava that solidifies into strange shapes. These are quick stops but offer a lot in terms of visual interest and understanding volcanic processes.

Snake River Canyon & The Evel Knievel Jump Site

No trip to this part of Idaho would be complete without glimpsing the Snake River Canyon and the famous B.A.S.E. jump site. The I. B. Perrine Memorial Bridge spans over 1,500 feet across the canyon, and at 486 feet high, it’s a spectacular sight.

You can view the jump ramp used by Evel Knievel in 1976, even though his attempt failed—what a story! Watching B.A.S.E. jumpers fly off the bridge right before your eyes is an adrenaline shot, and the views of kayakers and paddleboarders in the river below add a lively touch. The visitor center here offers great photo opportunities and informative displays, making it a fitting end to a full day.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Duration and Comfort

The entire tour lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, which is quite a full day of sightseeing. The coach is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during transfers, and the small group size (maximum of 7 travelers) means you’ll get more personalized attention. The tour begins at 7:00 am, perfect for making the most of daylight and avoiding the midday heat.

Price and Value

At $169 per person, the tour includes all fees, taxes, a boxed lunch—complete with a sandwich, chips, a baked cookie or brownie, and bottled water—and hassle-free transportation. That’s a fair deal considering the depth of experience, the included stops, and the guided insights. The reviews echo this sentiment, with visitors mentioning how much they appreciated the knowledgeable guide and the different stops.

Booking and Cancellation

Most travelers book about 53 days in advance, showing this is a popular choice. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing some flexibility if plans change. However, late cancellations won’t be refunded, so it’s good to be sure before booking.

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is best suited for those who love geology, outdoor exploration, and scenic landscapes. It’s especially appealing to travelers who want a guided experience that covers a lot of ground without the hassle of planning each stop. Because most stops involve short walks on paved trails or easy terrain, it’s accessible to most travelers — but be prepared for some uphill walking at Inferno Cone.

It’s also a great fit if you’re interested in learning how Apollo astronauts trained, as this area played a role in preparing for moon landings. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy nature and history, this trip offers a well-rounded, engaging day out.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of Craters of the Moon offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, educational content, and a pinch of adventure. The highlights, like Inferno Cone and the lava tunnels, are genuinely memorable, and the guides seem to keep things lively and informative. For those wanting to see the geological marvels of Idaho without the stress of planning, this is a solid choice.

The experience is especially valuable for geology buffs or anyone curious about volcanic landscapes and lunar terrain. While $169 might seem a bit steep for a full-day trip, the inclusions—lunch, entry fees, transportation, and expert guidance—make it a worthwhile investment in a truly unique part of the world.

If you’re visiting Twin Falls and want a comprehensive, well-organized day filled with scenic views and fascinating geology, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a perfect mix of education, adventure, and relaxation—highly recommended if it fits your style.

FAQ

Is pickup from Twin Falls included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup from your Twin Falls accommodation, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 to 8 hours, so plan your day accordingly.

What’s included in the price?
You get all fees and taxes, a boxed lunch with a sandwich, chips, a baked treat, bottled water, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Are there any physical requirements?
Most stops involve short walks on paved trails. The climb up Inferno Cone is about 160 feet of elevation gain over a half-mile, which is manageable for most.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within this window are not refunded.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

Is food or beverage provided?
Yes, a boxed lunch and bottled water are included, but snacks or alcohol are not.

What about bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, most stops are suitable for most ages, especially since walks are short and on paved trails.

What makes this tour worth the price?
The combination of guided insights, all-inclusive pricing, diverse stops, and the personalized small group experience makes it a good value for anyone wanting to explore Craters of the Moon thoroughly.

Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or simply looking for an extraordinary sightseeing day, this tour offers a detailed and enjoyable way to see some of Idaho’s most striking landscapes.