City of Rocks National Reserve

Things To Do Near City of Rocks National Reserve

The City of Rocks National Reserve offers activities for every type of adventurer. For a laid-back day, drive the scenic park road, practice your landscape photography, or break out your binoculars to spot birds and the occasional moose. Active travelers can hike and bike 22 miles of trails, go rock-climbing, or ride horses through the rocks. Don't let the winter snow keep you away — come for ice climbing, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling. The park is relatively isolated, so make sure to stop in Burley for groceries on your way in.

Hiking Trails

• Geological Interpretive Trail

  Short but fascinating, the Geological Interpretive Trail offers a great introduction to the rock formations in the City of Rocks. Over 1.2 miles, you'll pass by a variety of enormous, bizarre towers and mounds. Learn about the history and geology as you pass and read 12 different interpretive signs. With its relatively flat surface and modest elevation gain, this is the ideal hike for families or beginners.

  Location

  Circle Creek Overlook parking lot

  Length

  1.2 Miles Round Trip

  Intensity

  Easy to Moderate

• Window Arch Trail

  If you have limited time, the Window Arch Trailis a great stop. The trail itself takes just a few minutes to navigate, but it takes you to a beautiful rock arch. This hike is particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

  Location

  Window Arch parking area

  Length

  0.1 Miles Round Trip

  Intensity

  Easy

• North Fork Circle Creek Trail 

  If you're looking for a longer hike, head to the North Fork Circle Creek Trail. Take two vehicles, and leave one at each trailhead for a one-way trip, or do an out-and-back for a full-day adventure. The trail winds through the rock spires, giving you fantastic views of the major formations and the beautiful Horizons Arch. In some sections, you'll climb high into a sagebrush plateau, surrounded by spectacular vistas. If you're hiking in the summer, bring plenty of water; much of the trail is exposed, and the sun can be intense.

  Location

  Emery Picnic Area parking lot

  Length

  6.3 Miles One-Way

  Intensity

  Moderate to Strenuous

Sightseeing

• Camp Rock

  One of the most significant sites in City of Rocks National Reserve, Camp Rock is a must-see location. As emigrants passed through the area on the California Trail in the mid-1800s, they signed their names on the rock itself. Today, you can still see many of the signatures; they're written in axle grease and have survived more than 150 years.

  Location

  Camp Rock wayside

• Elephant Rock

  If you've ever seen photos of City of Rocks National Reserve, chances are good that they've included Elephant Rock. This distinctive rock dome has been weathered over the centuries to resemble an enormous elephant on the move. You can enjoy the view from the parking area or explore the rock on the short trails. Keep an eye out for climbers — Elephant Rock has several popular climbing routes.

  Location

  Elephant Rock parking lot

• Parking Lot Rock

  Bring your camera to Parking Lot Rock. With its fantastic views of tall rock towers and distant mountain peaks, it's one of the most scenic spots in the park. A variety of trails lead away from the parking area, giving you plenty of opportunities to get close to the rock formations. This is another popular spot for climbers, so you may see their tiny figures high on the sheer walls.

  Location

  Parking Lot Rock parking area

Museums

• Cassia County Historical Society and Museum

  The Cassia County Historical Society and Museum takes you through the history of southern Idaho. Learn about the farming tradition, pioneers, railroads, and more. The photos, memorabilia, and historic buildings are engaging for both kids and adults.

  Location

  1142 Hiland Ave, Burley, ID 83318

• Minidoka County Historical Society Museum

  Small and charming, the Minidoka County Historical Society Museum is packed with interesting exhibits. Check out prehistoric fossils, view a 1900s-era soda fountain, and explore a caboose from the Union Pacific Railroad. Of particular interest is the exhibit about Hunt Camp, which operated as a Japanese relocation camp in World War II.

  Location

  99 E Baseline Rd, Rupert, ID 83350

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Tracy General Store

  Drive 5 miles to find the Tracy General Store, a small shop that carries basic household supplies, food, and snacks.

  Location

  3001 S Elba Almo Rd, Almo, ID 83312

• Clark's

  Clark's is a tiny grocery store located about 18 miles north of the park; it's the last store you'll find on the way south from Burley. Make sure to check out the historic building and to stop in the excellent meat department for food to grill at your campsite.

  Location

  100 E Main St, Oakley, ID 83346

• Almo Creek Outpost Steakhouse

  Located next to the Almo Inn, the Almo Creek Outpost Steakhouse serves hearty, meat-and-potatoes meals. Whether you're in the mood for a burger or a ribeye, you'll leave full and satisfied.

  Location

  3020 S Elba Almo Rd, Almo, ID 83312

• Black Pine Steakhouse

  Located about 28 miles from the City of Rocks National Reserve, the Black Pine Steakhouse is a great place to stop on your way into or out of the park. The lunch menu includes burgers and hot sandwiches, and dinner features ribs, steak, and shrimp.

  Location

  420 N Main St, Malta, ID 83342

How To Get To City of Rocks National Reserve

If you're driving across Idaho on I-86 or I-84, you can get to the City of Rocks National Reserve by taking ID-27 south from Burley or ID-77 south from Declo. Coming from Utah on I-84 north, take UT-30/UT-42 west near Snowville. Just after you cross the border into Idaho, head west on E Naf Road S. After about 75 miles, take S Yost Road north and E Ey Road west. Just south of Almo, ID, follow signs to the City of Rocks along E 3075 S.

Address

3035 Elba-Almo Road, Almo, ID 83312

Fee: Entry Fee (per person)

There is no entry fee.

Most tourists bypass the City of Rocks National Reserve; it usually sees fewer than 150,000 visitors per year. The drive to this remote southern Idaho destination pays off in spectacular hiking, rock climbing, biking, and horseback riding. Whether you're coming in the heat of summer or in the cold, windy winter, an RV makes a cozy and comfortable home base for your visit.