Map of City of Rocks National Reserve

In this reserve are historic pioneer trails in the midst of  geologic grandeur. The name "City of Rocks" refers to massive granite  rock formations—up to 2.5 billion years old and 600 feet high—that  reminded California-bound emigrants in the 1800s of city buildings. The  park also has world-class rock climbing and a diversity of habitat,  wildlife, and vegetation. City of Rocks, which is cooperatively managed  by the National Park Service and the State of Idaho, was designated on  November 18, 1988.     

WHAT TO SEE & DO     

Bicycling, cross-country skiing, hiking, horseback riding  (rentals, Almo), hunting, picnicking, rock climbing, snowmobiling,  snowshoeing. Facilities: Visitor center (Almo), trails, wayside  exhibits, kiosk. Gift shop, grills, picnic tables. Programs &  Events: Interpretive talks, guided hikes, cultural demonstrations  (Memorial Day-Labor Day, Fri. and Sat. nights). Stargazing (May-Oct.),  City of Rocks Trail Ride (Sept.). Tips & Hints: Go late May-early  June for wildflowers, May-June for birds, late Sept.-early Oct. for fall  colors. Busiest May-June, least crowded Jan. and Feb.     

FOOD, LODGING & SUPPLIES     

Camping: In the park: City of Rocks Campground (tent camping  area; $7; vault toilets). 75 backcountry sites scattered throughout park  (free; permit required, see below).  Hotels: None in park. In Almo:  Almo Creek Outpost Cabins (3020 Elba Almo Rd., tel. 208/824-5577; 3  cabins; $65). In Burley: Best Western Burley Inn (800 N. Overland Ave.,  Exit 208 off 1-84, tel. 208/678-3501; 126 rooms; $60-$80). X  Restaurants: None in park. In Almo: Almo Creek Outpost Restaurant (3020  Elba Almo Rd., tel. 208/824-5577; $5-$12). In Burley: Charlies Cafe (615  E. Main St., tel. 208/678-0112; $6-$12). 6 Groceries & Gear: None  in park. In Almo: Tracy Merc Store (3001 Elba-Almo Rd., tel.  208/824-5570).     

FEES, HOURS & REGULATIONS     

Free. Permit required (free) for backcountry camping and  backpacking. Leashed dogs only. Hunting in designated areas only. Idaho  state hunting license required. Bikes and horses on designated trails  only. No motorized vehicles or equipment on trails. Reserve is open  year-round but in winter (Dec-Mar.) is not accessible by car; you can  hike, ski, snowmobile, or snowshoe in. Visitor center open Apr.-Oct.,  daily 8-4:30; Nov.-Mar., weekdays 8-4:30.     

HOW TO GET THERE     

In Almo, ID, on the Idaho-Utah border. From Boise and west,  take I-84 to Declo, Exit 216 (Rte. 77) to Almo. Closest airport: Twin  Falls (85 mi).     

CONTACTS     

City of Rocks National Reserve (Box 169, Almo, ID 83312, tel. 208/ 824-5519, fax 208/824-5563).     

City of Rocks National Reserve. How to get by car to the City  of Rocks National Reserve. How to book a room and its price in the City  of Rocks National Reserve