Known for its landscape of otherworldly rock formations, the City of Rocks in Idaho is a beautiful place to visit all year round. Hiking, camping, and general sightseeing are all wonderful activities at this incredible national reserve – no matter the time of year. However, few realize that the park takes on an entirely different atmosphere during the winter season, and it brings all sorts of opportunities for snowy adventures, too. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding – this park has it all in the wintertime, and then some!

Located in Almo, City of Rocks National Reserve is one of Idaho's most breathtaking wonders. Emigrants on the California Trail described it literally as "a city of rocks," and it evokes just as much awe to this day.
City of Rocks National Reserve/Facebook
There's no bad time of year to explore this unique landscape, but we'd argue that the park truly shines during winter. There's just something about seeing the spires of rocks covered in snow that makes for an especially memorable experience!
City Of Rocks National Reserve / Facebook
In fact, City of Rocks is a treasured wintertime destination for many. This is because it's home to all kinds of wonderful winter activities, from snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to even sledding!
City of Rocks National Reserve/Facebook

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The park contains a myriad of winter trails that are worth tackling. If you don't have your own snowshoes or poles, you can rent some at the Visitor Center for $10 per person. It's even cheaper with family and youth discounts.
City of Rocks National Reserve/Facebook
Skiing is another great way to explore the City of Rocks. The park's cross-country trails are not groomed, but you'll find that there are miles upon miles that are available for skiers. The park's various camping roads are also great for skiing!
City of Rocks National Reserve/Facebook
Another perk of visiting in winter is that the crowds are basically non-existent. This means you can enjoy the park's inspiring atmosphere in total peace and quiet. After all, they call it the "silent city" for a reason.
City of Rocks National Reserve/Facebook
For a winter adventure that's bound to make an impression, visit City of Rocks National Reserve. You may just find that winter is your favorite time of year to experience this otherworldly landscape. Learn more about the park's winter activities here.
City of Rocks National Reserve/Facebook

Check out some footage of the City of Rocks National Reserve during a winter in Idaho in this video from Jon Conti:

Have you visited City of Rocks in Idaho during winter? What’s your favorite activity at this beautiful park in southern Idaho? Let us know in the comments section!

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More to Explore

Idaho In Winter

Chris Muras | January 15, 2024

What are some things to do in Idaho in winter?
During the warmer months, Idaho is an outdoor lovers paradise - it doesn't stop when the temps drop and snow flies. Here are some things to do in Idaho in winter that you'll want to plan for:

  • The Activity Barn, McCall, ID: This summertime working cattle ranch transforms once the snow begins to fall in the winter. Enjoy fat tire biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and of course, one of the best tubing runs around. With multiple groomed lanes you are in for a treat. Plus, you can choose to take the Magic Carpet back to the top - a standing conveyor that does all of the work for you.
  • Craters of the Moon National Monument: This fascinating spot in Idaho is a lava rock landscape with hardened lava flows and ancient cinder cones. In the winter, when everything is covered in snow it looks somewhat like you are standing on the moon. The seven-mile Loop Road closes to vehicle traffic in the winter and opens up to skiing and snowshoeing. You can also take the 1.5-mile Snowshoe Loop Trail for a shorter jaunt.
  • Go snowmobiling in the wilds of Eastern Idaho, Island Park, ID: If you enjoy blasting through the woods on a snowmobile, you'll love a visit to Island Park. With 500 miles of groomed trails to explore this area is one of the best places to enjoy a snowy winter. Island Park might only have a few hundred full-time residents, but this charming town is a great home base to explore the outdoors on a chilly winter day.

If you are planning a vacation to Idaho in the winter, try out these eight awesome destinations we think you'll love. Go pick up an RV from RVShare and get ready for an incredible adventure.

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City of Rocks National Reserve, ID 83342, USA