City of Rocks National Reserve - Visit Southern Idaho
Read about Idaho’s COVID measures here.

City of Rocks National Reserve

On his way to California in 1849, emigrant James F. Wilkens described the dramatic geological area he encountered as “City of Rocks.” The name remains, as well as hundreds of pioneer inscriptions, wagon ruts, and journal accounts, testifying to the nearly quarter-million people who traveled through here between 1843 and 1869.

Visitors today will see nearly the same scene – granite spires and monoliths reaching 60 stories tall. Geologists estimate the oldest granite to exceed 2.5 billion years. Established in 1988 as a national reserve, City of Rocks encompasses 14,407 acres of land (about one quarter is privately owned) and 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. About 700 routes have been developed to date. City of Rocks also has ample access to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The winter months provide excellent opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing.

Trip Itineraries

Where to Get the Best Drone Shots in Southern Idaho

Sometimes the best pictures are taken from a few (hundred) feet in the air! If you’re a drone fanatic, here ...

Livability in Southern Idaho

Learn about the livability conditions in Southern Idaho. From adventures to community, the area offers something for everyone!

Blue Heart Kayaking

The Snake River attracts tourists from all over the nation to white water raft, hike, bird watch, and kayak to ...

Southern Idaho; the perfect getaway for introverts

When searching for a place to visit, are you looking for a less popular destination to avoid the crowds? Maybe a place that has more cows than humans? If this sounds like your cup of tea; Southern Idaho is calling your name. Traveling to Southern Idaho is the perfect getaway for introverts or people who just don't want to be bothered by others when out exploring.

Weekend Trip to Twin Falls - September 22-24th, 2022

A weekend trip in September to Twin Falls will bring you to waterfalls, fall colors, Thousand Springs Festival and more.

The Traveling Child 5 Day Itinerary

The Traveling Child is a family of 4 who love to take adventures! Check out their 5 day family itinerary traveling to Shoshone Falls, City of Rocks, Shoshone Ice Caves, and White Water Rafting in Hagerman.

How-to Guide: Kayaking to Shoshone Falls

Kayaking to Shoshone Falls is an adventure. How do you kayak to Shoshone Falls? Rent kayaks from AWOL Adventure Sports at Centennial Waterfront Park and put in the Snake River from there. Then kayak under the Perrine Bridge and onto Pillar Falls. Once to Pillar Falls you must portage over the hiking area. After that, the paddle is 2 more miles to Shoshone Falls. 

Southern Idaho, our version of the Wild West: Almo Edition

Almo, Idaho is home to the City of Rocks National Reserve, Castle Rocks State Park, and Durfee Hot Springs. It sits in the valley while Cache Peak towers above. City of Rocks and Castle Rocks are popular destinations for climbers, hikers, horse back riding, ATVing and camping.

June Adventure Itinerary

Traveling to Southern Idaho in June is a wonderful decision if you want to see wildflower super blooms, beautiful mountains and stunning waterfalls. Check out our June Adventure itinerary for the perfect trip to kick off summer.

Visiting Shoshone Ice Caves and Idaho's Mammoth Cave

Shoshone Ice Caves and Idaho's Mammoth Cave are incredibly unique places located north of Shoshone, Idaho. Explore underground through these lava tunnels and learn history about the area. How far are the Shoshone Ice Caves from Twin Falls? 45 Minutes.