City Of Rocks National Reserve
ID
About City Of Rocks National Reserve
Described by California Trail emigrants as “a city of tall spires,” “steeple rocks,” and “the silent city,” this awe-inspiring landscape continues to captivate. Today, it beckons rock climbers, hikers, campers, hunters, and adventurers with its dramatic scenery, fascinating geology, and echoes of the Old West. The Silent City is ready for you to explore.
Things To Do
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Winter Camping
Immerse yourself in the solitude of the "Silent City".
Explore the Night Sky
A day in the park doesn't have to end when the sun goes down! A whole new world comes alive at night and is waiting to be explored. The dark sky over City of Rocks is an excellent place to experience the beauty of the night.
Become a City of Rocks Junior Ranger
Junior Rangers "Explore, Learn, and Protect" their national parks. Pick up a free booklet from the Visitor Center to learn about geology, nature, and history in City of Rocks National Reserve. Complete fun activities like scavenger hunts, fill-in-the-blanks, and word searches. Once you've finished the recommended number of activities, turn in the booklet, take the park oath, and earn your Junior Ranger Badge!
Geologic & Historic Sites Driving Tour
A self-guided journey to discovering geologic wonders and historical sites in City of Rocks National Reserve. As you drive through the Reserve you will be able to view the featured rock formations and historic sites from your vehicle. Use your imagination as you observe the rocks to see animals, faces, and buildings and experience what it might have been like in this area in the past as you explore remnants of history.
Disc Golf at Castle Rocks
With the dramatic Castle Rocks landscape in the backdrop, this small three-hole disc golf course is fun for all ages and abilities. The lush grassy area of Castle Rocks Ranch has large shady trees that provide a welcome reprieve from summer heat. There are bathrooms, and picnic facilities in this area with more a short distance up the road at Stines Creek.
Rock Climbing in City of Rocks and Castle Rocks
Popular since the 1970's, City of Rocks granite is internationally renowned among climbers. There are over 600 routes here, both traditional and sport. Climbs vary from 30-600 feet, rating from the relatively easy 5.6 to the extremely difficult 5.14.
Available Activities
Weather
City of Rocks is located in south-central Idaho within the northern edge of the Basin and Range geologic province. Outdoor recreation can be pleasant from April through October. Summers are generally dry with 10 to 15 inches of precipitation in winter and spring.
Summer temperatures range widely with night time lows occasionally approaching freezing and midday highs nearing 100° F; however, the typical range of low and high temperature is 45-85.
Getting There
From Boise: take I-84 East to exit 216 (Declo); go south on Highway 77 to Conner Creek Junction; turn right (west) on Highway 77 Spur to Almo. The visitor center and the park entrance are south of the post office and businesses. From Pocatello: take I-86 West to I-84 West to exit 216 and proceed as above.
From Salt Lake City: take I-84 west to exit 245 (Sublette), turn left and go west to Malta. From Malta take Highway 77. Take Highway 77 Spur to Almo.
Plan Your Visit
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City of Rocks National Reserve
The National Reserve is open 365 days a year, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Many roads are not maintained during the winter and may become impassable from late November through March. For current conditions visitors are encouraged to check with the Visitor Center or watch for alerts on our website and social media. During summer the Visitor Center is open every day 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. During fall/winter the Visitor Center is open 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Tuesday-Saturday, closed Sundays, Mondays, and holidays.
