Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert

Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert represents one of Magic Valley Idaho's most notable offroad destinations, offering 50+ miles of desert routes terrain that attracts adventurers from across the region. Located in Idaho's Magic Valley region, this route has become a destination for atv, dirt bike, utv enthusiasts seeking accessible adventures with stunning scenery.

Trail Overview and Terrain

The Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert is classified as a easy desert routes, spanning 50+ miles through Idaho's diverse landscape. This accessibility makes it an excellent choice for families, newcomers to offroading, and those seeking a scenic adventure without extreme technical challenges.

Current status for Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert is: Open. While the route is currently open, conditions can change rapidly in Idaho's backcountry. Real-time verification before departure is always recommended.

Vehicle Requirements and Preparation

Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert is designated for the following vehicle types: ATV, Dirt Bike, UTV. While less technical, all vehicles should be in good mechanical condition and prepared for changing conditions.

Before tackling Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert, ensure your vehicle is properly maintained with particular attention to tires, brakes, and suspension. Carry sufficient fuel for the entire journey plus reserve, as Magic Valley Idaho's backcountry offers limited services.

Planning Your Magic Valley Idaho Adventure

Spring and Fall offer the optimal conditions for exploring Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert. Fall provides spectacular color displays along with cooler temperatures, making for comfortable riding conditions. This season also brings reduced crowds compared to summer months. Spring can offer good conditions, though lingering snowpack and mud may affect trail conditions, particularly at higher elevations. Trail conditions should be verified before spring trips.

Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert is best suited for experienced offroaders who understand their vehicle's capabilities and limitations. While the rewards are exceptional, proper preparation and realistic expectations are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Magic Valley Idaho Experience

The Magic Valley region of Idaho offers a distinctive character that sets it apart from other areas of the state. This region showcases Idaho's remarkable natural diversity, from river valleys to mountain peaks.

Beyond Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert, the Magic Valley region offers numerous additional offroad opportunities, camping areas, and outdoor activities. Many visitors combine their Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert adventure with exploration of nearby attractions, creating multi-day expeditions through some of America's most spectacular backcountry.

Responsible Offroading and Trail Preservation

Idaho's offroad access depends on responsible users who respect the land and follow established guidelines. When exploring Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert, practice Tread Lightly principles: stay on designated routes, pack out all trash, minimize campfire impacts, and respect wildlife and other visitors. These practices help ensure continued access to Idaho's remarkable backcountry for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.

The unique features that make Craters of the Moon / Arco Desert special—including volcanic landscape and unique terrain—are worth protecting for future visitors. By combining adventure with responsibility, offroaders can help maintain the wild character that makes Magic Valley Idaho such a remarkable destination.