Stargaze at Idaho's Craters of the Moon dark sky park
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is a feast for the eyes. With barren lava fields and craters dotting the rugged landscape, it projects a certain lunar-like feel — so much so that it served as a training ground for Apollo 14 astronauts in the 1960s. Here, they learned to collect samples and navigate a volcanic environment.
Fast forward to 2017, and Craters of the Moon was designated as an International Dark Sky Park, so nighttime is where the real magic happens. Thanks to its isolated location, it is one of the darkest areas of the continental U.S.
“These types of dark sites are ideal for stargazing since the background sky is itself less bright and allows observers to see fainter stars and other celestial objects that would be hard to see in a city,” said Alex Gianninas, associate teaching professor of astronomy at Connecticut College.
An ideal way to experience the park is to fly into Boise, pick up a fully outfitted camper van at Wandervans and then drive about 170 miles east to Craters of the Moon. In the afternoon, pack a picnic dinner and hike up Inferno Cone, one of the best spots for viewing the night sky.
“It is a steep but short hike to the summit of a cinder cone providing a 360-degree, unobstructed view of the horizon,” Gianninas said. “Because you are elevated above the surrounding lava flows, no hills or tall trees block your view of rising or setting constellations.”
If you are camping, the Lava Flow Campground is a terrific choice. “It is situated right within the volcanic landscape and offers open views of the sky without the need to hike in the dark,” Gianninas said. “It is ideal for setting up a telescope right next to your vehicle.”
If you’d like to meet up with a group, book your trip around a Star Party, held each summer and fall. Pocatello Astronomical Society volunteers provide telescopes and offer stellar stargazing tips. You can also take part in astronomy programs and constellation tours from July through September.
One thing is certain: The night sky here does not disappoint. In fact, the Milky Way is visible in all but the winter season. “July is considered the best month in Idaho when the core (of the galaxy) is visible for most of the night, appearing high and vertical in the sky,” Gianninas said, adding that an important consideration is the moon phase.
“Even in the darkest park, a full moon acts like a giant streetlamp that washes out the Milky Way,” he said. “The four days before and after a new moon are the golden window. During this time, the sky is at its absolute darkest and thus provides the best viewing conditions for the Milky Way.”
The best time of year to visit is from May through early October. Winter has its charm here — it can be ideal for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing — but you miss out on the moon-like topography.
With its sand dunes, lofty peaks and lava hoodoos, daytime at Craters of the Moon can be as fun as the night. Be sure to drive the historic Loop Road, explore a lava tube cave — formed about 15,000 years ago — and visit a 1,200-year-old tree and monoliths.
Where to Stay
The best lodging option for the park is camping, especially if you want to experience its dark skies. Beyond Lava Flow Campground, Echo Crater is a great option. It’s a huge amphitheater-type setting down in the bottom of a crater, where you’re protected from the wind. If you prefer four walls and a bed, Limelight Hotel Ketchum also offers a large outdoor pool, hot tubs and a complimentary breakfast spread.