Established in 1988 as a national reserve, City of Rocks in Idaho encompasses 14,407 acres of land.
As of November 30, 2022 the National Park Service has acquired an additional 105 acres of land along the northeastern boundary of the reserve.
The park is renowned for its scenic, geologic, and historic significance.
The City of Rocks area was an important landmark on the California Trail. City of Rocks is one of the finest granite-face climbing sites anywhere. Climbers find the younger granite of the Almo Pluton to be some of the best rock they’ve ever ascended. There are almost 700 climbing routes available. City of Rocks also has ample access to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. City of Rocks Camping is a great experience for RVers or tent campers. There are lots of options in the park and the neighboring Castle Rocks State Park.
Winter at City of Rocks
The winter months provide excellent opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing. With 22 miles of trails in the City of Rocks and another 12 miles in Castle Rocks, snowshoers and cross-country skiers can find deep quiet — and even see some of the area’s wildlife. You won’t find groomed trails, but you will find solitude and fantastic geological features.
With the recent addition of land, City of Rocks features impressive granite outcrops such as Train Rock, beautiful aspen groves, portions of Graham Creek, and overwintering locations for moose. The purchase also includes about 5 acres of access easement, that will allow for the construction of a new public access road to the property.
Plans are in motion to continue to expand City of Rocks with intentions to protect the land and provide more recreation.
