Caves Trailhead Picnic Area and Information, Craters of the Moon National Monument

Beyond the lava tubes themselves, the Caves Trail offers hikers a unique opportunity to traverse both 'a'a' and 'pahoehoe' lava flows. These distinct types of basaltic lava showcase the varied volcanic activity that shaped the monument, providing a fascinating surface-level exploration before descending into the caves.

While the Caves Trail is generally considered a moderate hike, exploring the lava tubes can present some challenges. Boy Scout Cave, for instance, has small entrances that require crawling. Inside the caves, visitors may encounter uneven surfaces, slippery areas, and require scrambling over rocks. It's crucial to wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and be prepared for dark, cool conditions.

The Caves Trailhead offers a fairly large parking lot, including spaces for buses, RVs, and handicapped visitors. According to visitor tips, there are ample parking spaces at all attractions within Craters of the Moon National Monument, and the park is generally not as crowded as some other national parks, making parking less of a concern compared to more popular destinations.

A free permit is required to enter the caves at Craters of the Moon National Monument. You can obtain this permit at the visitor center or an entrance booth. This measure is in place to help prevent the spread of White-nose Syndrome, a disease affecting bats. Visitors may be asked to confirm their shoes haven't been in other caves to prevent disease transmission.

The Loop Road, which leads to the Caves Trailhead, is typically closed to vehicles from mid-November through mid-April due to winter snows. While the monument itself remains open for winter activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, vehicular access to the trailhead and the caves is generally not possible during these months. The caves may also be closed due to hazardous conditions like ice.

Families can enjoy the Caves Trail, but should be aware that some caves, like Boy Scout Cave, require crawling. Indian Tunnel is often the most family-friendly due to its size and natural skylights. Always ensure children have appropriate gear, including sturdy shoes, a jacket for the cool cave temperatures, and a reliable flashlight or headlamp. The picnic area provides a good spot for a break.

Dogs are generally permitted on paved roads and in developed areas like picnic sites and campgrounds within Craters of the Moon National Monument, but they are not allowed on trails or inside the caves. Service animals are an exception. Always keep pets on a leash and clean up after them.

The Caves Trailhead Picnic Area offers a large parking lot, restrooms (though sometimes temporary facilities are in place), and picnic benches. It serves as a convenient base for preparing for your cave exploration or enjoying a meal amidst the unique volcanic landscape.

The lava tubes maintain a consistently cool and damp environment, often significantly colder than the surface, even in summer. Temperatures can be near freezing. It is highly recommended to bring a jacket or warm layers, along with sturdy, closed-toed shoes, to ensure comfort during your exploration.

The paved path leading to the Caves Trailhead is generally accessible. However, the lava tubes themselves are not typically wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain, steps, and the need for scrambling in some areas. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are located a short distance away at the Lava Flow Campground.

The two closest towns to Craters of the Moon National Monument are Arco to the northeast and Carey to the southwest. Both towns offer limited options for hotels, motels, restaurants, and cafes, providing convenient stops for visitors looking for services outside the monument.