An “epic volcano hike.” That sounds a little extreme, doesn’t it? After all, when you think of volcanoes, you think of Mount St. Helens, or the plethora of lava-spewing cones in Hawaii…but, Idaho?
While those who are familiar with Craters of the Moon may have a basic understanding of Idaho’s uniquely tumultuous geology, but few people realize that those same forces are still at work deep beneath the surface of our beautifully serene state. But while Idaho’s next volcanic eruption may or may not be for quite some time (more on that in upcoming articles!), there’s one particularly stunning volcanic hike that will give you some bragging rights at your next get-together.
While there are plenty of wondrous mountaintops in Idaho, few states can offer up the spectacular volcanic landscapes of the Gem State.
Tucked away in southern Idaho, just east of Arco and the nearby Craters of the Moon National Monument, three towering rhyolitic domes rise up out of the Snake River Plain.
The Big Southern Butte particularly stands out like a sore thumb in comparison to the rest of the landscape, and understandably so. It just so happens to be one of the largest volcanic domes in the world! Uniquely, it is also one of the youngest at only 300,000 years old.
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Although intimidating from a distance and towering above its surroundings, this unexpected formation is nevertheless one "butte-iful" hiking opportunity, although few people realize it.
The 7,750-foot-high Big Southern Butte towers nearly 2,500 feet above the lava plain below.
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A high-clearance ATV/4-wheeler-only road in the north leads to the summit, but is gated closed in winter and spring, which is the perfect time to attempt this steep and grassy hike.
Take caution, however: native grasses and steppe sagebrush make for a prickly climb! It's a comfortable 3.5 miles from the gate to the summit, with alternating portions of steep and easy levels.
A 360 degree panoramic view from the top affords views from the Tetons to the south hills of Twin Falls. The Smiley knob of the Pioneer Range, the Lost River Range, and the entire Craters of the Moon valley are all easily recognizable.
With a pair of binoculars, large buildings from Idaho Falls to American Falls are visible. You'll also notice that the nearby Twin Buttes, which look just as intimidating from the highway (and are the largest formations of their kind in the world), are quite puny in comparison! Cars on the desert roads below look miniature. People look microscopic. In other words, this isn't just a small hill, by any means.
Uniquely, water can be found on the northern end, which fuels this mountain into an unexpected ecosystem.
And, despite the unforgiving desert conditions, the butte still attracts snow in winter. Skiiers have been known to hike their way up and race back down!
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While there is an old fire lookout on the summit, it is no longer in stable or rentable condition, but is typically manned by the BLM. But what a fantastic place to catch a sunset!
BLM Official Directions: take the Country Road/300 North heading south (this is signed as the ‘Arco OHV Route’). Turn east onto Arco-Minidoka Road/2930 North. Turn onto 2900 West heading south and turn west onto 2150 North, turn north onto 300 West which turns into 2225 North. Turn onto the Arco-Minidoka Road heading south for several miles. Turn east onto Quaking Asp-Frenchman Road toward Big Southern Butte. At Frenchman’s Cabin, turn and head up the Butte.
Summit hikes offer up huge rewards—a photo-worthy journey and a new perspective on everything you hiked up to get there. Not to mention the status boost that comes with every casual, “I hiked a volcano yesterday” that you drop mid-conversation!
Big Southern Butte is only one volcanic formation that rises up out of Idaho’s desert landscape, however. Craters of the Moon is a volcanic playground that offers hikes, climbs, and recreation opportunities for every skill level, including this awesome wintertime activity! So what do you think – ready to take on this adventure?
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