Discovering the Otherworldly Landscape of Craters of the Moon National Monument
As we stepped out of our car and onto the rugged terrain of Craters of the Moon National Monument, it was as if we had entered a different planet. The landscape before us was unlike anything we had ever seen – a vast expanse of broken lava, twisted rock formations, and eerie silence. This otherworldly environment is the result of millions of years of volcanic activity, which has shaped the land into a surreal and fascinating world.
Located in southern Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument is one of the most unique and awe-inspiring destinations in the United States. The monument stretches over 600,000 acres of rhyolite, basalt, and other volcanic rocks, which were formed as a result of intense volcanic activity over 15,000 years ago. Today, visitors can explore this fantastical landscape, which is filled with strange and wondrous formations, including cinder cones, lava flows, and sagebrush steppe.
The Lava Flows
One of the most striking features of Craters of the Moon National Monument is the vast expanse of broken lava flows. These flows, which were formed when molten lava solidified and cracked, stretch out as far as the eye can see. The lava is a deep black color, and its rough, uneven surface is pockmarked with holes and cracks, giving it a texture that is almost like a puzzle. The sheer scale of the lava flows is breathtaking, and it’s easy to imagine ourselves standing on the surface of the Moon, surrounded by nothing but rock and darkness.
The Sagebrush Steppe
As we walked along the trails, we were struck by the lush greenery that surrounds the lava flows. The sagebrush steppe, which is a type of dry prairie, is home to a variety of unique and adapted plants, including sagebrush, saltbrush, and greasewood. These plants have evolved to thrive in this harsh and arid environment, where water is scarce and the soil is poor in nutrients. The sagebrush steppe is also home to a variety of wildlife, including pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and hawks.
The Cinder Cones
Another fascinating feature of Craters of the Moon National Monument is the collection of cinder cones that dot the landscape. These cones, which are formed when lava from a volcano is blown into the air and solidifies, are unlike anything we had ever seen. The cones are small, usually no more than 100 feet tall, and their slopes are covered in a thick layer of cinders and ash. We hiked up one of the cones, and the view from the top was breathtaking – we could see for miles in every direction, taking in the full scope of the monument’s unique landscape.
Conclusion
Craters of the Moon National Monument is a truly otherworldly destination, a place where the forces of geology have shaped the land into a unique and fascinating world. Whether you’re a geologist, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to explore the unknown, this monument is a must-see destination. With its broken lava flows, sagebrush steppe, and cinder cones, Craters of the Moon National Monument is a place where the boundaries between earth and sky seem to blur, and where we can experience the raw power of the natural world.