Visiting Craters of the Moon National Park was like stepping into another world. The site of this volcanic eruption created an other-worldly atmosphere, with miles of black craters and giant lava tube holes.
We were able to hike along a couple of trailers, learning about the different types of lava (aa and pahoho), cones, cinder and the animals and plants that are able to survive in this desolate and creepy area.
it was blazing hot, especially out on the black lava stones and the only relief we found was the cool air of the lava tubes. Indian Tunnel is a large, mostly open lava tube with steep steps that dip you down into the cavern. Once in the bottom, you can look up to see where parts of the cave gave in and the various ledges and shelves. If you are brave enough and have a flashlight you can travel down some of these tubes. Not everyone was feeling brave so we made our way out while we still had plenty of light.
To get to Craters of the Moon we traveled through the town of Arco, which advertises its historical uniqueness of being home to one of the first nuclear power plants. Some of the businesses played off this "atomic" theme and there were several "monuments" which looked suspiciously like old bombs. It was a funny little town in the middle of the Idaho desert.
We happened to catch a local radio station that was broadcasting the exciting event of Extreme Makeover Home Edition from Pocatello, ID. That wouldl never make the news in Seattle like this did. The entire radio show, for several hours, consisted of a live play-by-play of the events of the unveiling of the home, happening that day. We lost reception before we heard how it ended up - may have to actually watch that one!
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