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.
Photo: NPS Photo
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.
- LocationAlmo, ID
- Entrance No fee listed
- HoursOpen 24 hours, daily
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Weather now76°F Overcast
- Alerts No active alerts
Overview
Topics
- Animals
- Arts
- Astronomy
- Birds
- Coniferous Forests
- Explorers and Expeditions
- Farming and Agriculture
- Fire
16 more topics
- Fish
- Forests and Woodlands
- Geology
- Homesteading
- Mountains
- Native American Heritage
- Natural Sounds
- Night Sky
- Photography
- Ranches
- Rock Landscapes and Features
- Scenic Views
- The Gold Rush
- Trails
- Westward Expansion
- Wilderness
Things to Do
27 experiences from the National Park Service. Check details on NPS.gov before you go.
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Archeology of Castle Rocks Guided Hike
Reservation required
During this 1.10 mile ranger guided hike you will get to explore the archaeology of Castle Rocks State Park. The hike is easy to moderate with some elevation change. You will explore Native American…
Learn more about Archeology of Castle Rocks Guided Hike on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Archery Course at Castle Rocks
Fee applies
This course at Castle Rocks State Park has more than 20 stations. Shot distance ranges from 20 yards to 60 yards depending on target size.
Learn more about Archery Course at Castle Rocks on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Backcountry Camping in Indian Grove
Reservation required
Backcountry camping is available in the designated Indian Grove area within City of Rocks National Reserve. Permits are required for backcountry camping and must be approved prior to your arrival.
Learn more about Backcountry Camping in Indian Grove on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
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…
Learn more about Become a City of Rocks Junior Ranger on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Bike the Tea Kettle Trail
Tea Kettle Trail is a great mountain biking trail that runs between Bread Loaves and Elephant Rock. The trailhead can be accessed from the Bread Loaves group camping parking lot or the parking area…
Learn more about Bike the Tea Kettle Trail on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Birding in the City of Rocks Checklist Area
Few places in Idaho other than the City of Rocks Checklist Area offer such a high concentration of bird species, making this a top birding destination. The Checklist Area includes the National…
Learn more about Birding in the City of Rocks Checklist Area on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Camping
Fee applies
Camping in City of Rocks, or nearby Smoky Mountain Campground is a great way to enjoy being out in nature. Relax beneath the cool shade of aspen, juniper, mountain mahogany, or pine. Spend the night…
Learn more about Camping on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
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…
Learn more about Disc Golf at Castle Rocks on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
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…
Learn more about Explore the Night Sky on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Fishing at the Castle Rocks Fish Pond
Besides fishing, the pond is also a great place to watch birds and wildlife. There is a walking path, benches to sit and enjoy the scenery, as well as a picnic table and fire ring.
Learn more about Fishing at the Castle Rocks Fish Pond on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
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…
Learn more about Geologic & Historic Sites Driving Tour on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hike Creekside Towers Trail
Creekside Towers is an out-and-back 1.2-mile trail. Nearby trails (such as Stairways or South Fork Circle Creek) could make for a longer, more adventurous loop. The gentle grade of 122 feet relative…
Learn more about Hike Creekside Towers Trail on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hike the City of Rocks Loop
This remote loop hike is a ranger favorite. The combination of pine trees, rock formations, and epic views offer a surprise at every turn of the trail.
Learn more about Hike the City of Rocks Loop on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hike the Geological Interpretive Trail
City of Rocks is well known for its geologic wonders. The Geological Interpretive Trail will guide you through many types of unique rock features and formations and explain the forces that created…
Learn more about Hike the Geological Interpretive Trail on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
History of Pinnacle Pass Guided Hike
Reservation required
Join rangers on a short 1.10 mile guided hike to Pinnacle Pass. This feature of the California Trail is located on private land and only accessible to the public through this hike. The hike is easy…
Learn more about History of Pinnacle Pass Guided Hike on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Horseback Riding in City of Rocks
Horseback riding can be one of the best ways to experience much of the Reserve's backcountry.
Learn more about Horseback Riding in City of Rocks on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hunting in City of Rocks and Castle Rocks
City of Rocks National Reserve was formed in part to preserve traditional uses of the land. It is one of few National Park System units that allows hunting. State and federal land around the Reserve…
Learn more about Hunting in City of Rocks and Castle Rocks on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Ice Climbing
Explore epic rock and ice.
Learn more about Ice Climbing on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
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…
Learn more about Rock Climbing in City of Rocks and Castle Rocks on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Shop for Souvenirs at the Visitor Center
Stop in to chat with a Ranger or pick up maps, guide booklets, and other informative resources. We offer souvenirs such as books, mugs, apparel, postcards, stickers and more.
Learn more about Shop for Souvenirs at the Visitor Center on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
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Snowmobiling
Take the road less traveled.
Learn more about Snowmobiling on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Snowshoeing
Get out and explore the winter trails.
Learn more about Snowshoeing on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Wayside Exhibits Loop at the Visitor Center
This short 0.23 mile loop trail behind the Visitor Center will introduce you to some of the resources that make City of Rocks special. You can see up close examples of the wagons emigrants used as…
Learn more about Wayside Exhibits Loop at the Visitor Center on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Winter Birding
Spot over 40 species during winter months.
Learn more about Winter Birding on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Winter Camping
Reservation required Fee applies
Immerse yourself in the solitude of the "Silent City".
Learn more about Winter Camping on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Winter Photography
Capture spectacular winter views.
Learn more about Winter Photography on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)
Showing 27 of 27
All 41 activities in the park
Pick one to find other parks that offer it.
- Hiking
- Camping
- Wildlife Watching
- Scenic Driving
- Stargazing
- Astronomy
- Fishing
- Biking
- Guided Tours
- Birdwatching
- Horse Trekking
- Climbing
Show 29 more activities
- Junior Ranger Program
- Picnicking
- Auto and ATV
- Backcountry Camping
- Bookstore and Park Store
- Car or Front Country Camping
- Cross-Country Skiing
- First Person Interpretation
- Food
- Gift Shop and Souvenirs
- Group Camping
- Horse Camping (see also camping)
- Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Hunting and Gathering
- Ice Climbing
- Ice Skating
- Living History
- Mountain Biking
- Rock Climbing
- RV Camping
- Self-Guided Tours - Auto
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Shopping
- Skiing
- Snow Play
- Snowmobiling
- Snowshoeing
Camping
2 campgrounds listed on Recreation.gov. Check availability and current conditions before you go.
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City of Rocks Campground
Not reservable on Recreation.gov Campground
Camping in City of Rocks is a great way to enjoy being out in nature. Relax beneath the cool shade of aspen, juniper, mountain mahogany, or pine. Spend the night…
Reservation websiteDetails
Camping in City of Rocks is a great way to enjoy being out in nature. Relax beneath the cool shade of aspen, juniper, mountain mahogany, or pine. Spend the night surrounded by impressive granite formations and starry skies. There are 64 standard campsites and 3 group sites to choose from with easy access to climbing, hiking trails, and vistas. -
Smoky Mountain Campground
Not reservable on Recreation.gov Campground
There are 38 campsites available, 9 of which are pull-through. Sites 11 and 24 are designated ADA accessible. A separate loop with 6 sites accommodates equestrian…
Reservation websiteDetails
There are 38 campsites available, 9 of which are pull-through. Sites 11 and 24 are designated ADA accessible. A separate loop with 6 sites accommodates equestrian campers. - water service May-September - 30 amp electrical hook-ups - fire-ring/ground grill - picnic table - partial shade There are flush toilets and showers open May-September and a vault toilet open year-round at the equestrian trail head. An RV dump station is provided near the campground entrance.
Facilities & Services
Find visitor services available in the park. Check current hours and availability before you go.
Other Visitor Services
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City of Rocks Visitor Center
Facility
The Visitor Center for City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park is located just outside the National Reserve in the community of Almo. Stop in to chat…
Almo, ID (208) 824-5901 Directions
Details
The Visitor Center for City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park is located just outside the National Reserve in the community of Almo. Stop in to chat with a Ranger or pick up maps, guide booklets, and other informative resources. We also offer souvenirs such as books, mugs, apparel, postcards, and stickers.
Plan Your Visit
Hours
Open 24 hours, daily · City of Rocks National Reserve
Hours details
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City of Rocks National ReserveOpen 24 hours, daily
The National Reserve is open 365 days a year, 7 days a week, 24hrs/day. Many roads are not maintained during the winter and may become impassable from late November through May. For current conditions visitors are encouraged to check with the Visitor Center or watch for alerts on our website and social media.
Entrance fees
No entrance fees listed.
Address
City of Rocks National Reserve, 3035 Elba-Almo RoadAlmo, ID 83312
Contact the park
Weather & conditions
76°F
Overcast · feels like 69°
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Today
78° 49°
Overcast4% rain
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Tomorrow
81° 54°
Sunny0% rain -
Monday
80° 58°
Overcast36% rain
Updated 2 hr ago
What to expect by season
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. Thunderstorms are common in the summer months (June - August)
Photos
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The majority of outcrops in City of Rocks and all of the pinnacles are either Almo Pluton or Green Creek Complex granite. — NPS Photo -
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3 more photos
Getting There
Almo, ID 83312
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.
Full directions
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.
Mailing address: City of Rocks National Reserve, Almo, ID 83312
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