City of Rocks National Reserve
National Reserve · ID
Described by California Trail emigrants as “a city of tall spires,” “steeple rocks,” and “the silent city,” this awe-inspiring landscape continues to captivate. 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.
- NPS site
- nps.gov/ciro
- Location
- City Of Rocks National Reserve (42.070, -113.712)
Track your visit to City of Rocks National Reserve
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Passport stamp locations
- City of Rocks National Reserve, the California Trail
- City of Rocks Visitor Center
Hours
City of Rocks National Reservetoday: All Day
- Sat Oct 3All Day
- Sun Oct 4All Day
- Mon Oct 5All Day
- Tue Oct 6All Day
- Wed Oct 7All Day
- Thu Oct 8All Day
- Fri Oct 9All Day
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.
Hours are retrieved from the National Park Service and can change without notice — check the official site before you go.
Visitor centers
1
- City of Rocks Visitor Centertoday: 8:00AM - 4:30PMDirections
Self-guided tours
3
Back Yard Boulders in Castle Rocks State Park1–2 hours · 7 stops
Castle Rock is the centerpiece of this 2-mile loop trail. It features impressive rocks as well as archaeological sites such as the Shock and Awe Shelter and pictographs. In spring hikers may encounter many species of wildflowers and experience the arrival of migratory birds. In autumn, hikers are treated to the colorful foliage of aspen, chokecherry, and willow. Signs and numbered markers are strategically located to help you find the route.
Creekside Towers Trail1–2 hours · 6 stops
Creekside Towers is an out-and-back 1.2-mile trail, nearby trails (such as Stairways and South Fork Circle Creek trails) could make for a longer and more adventurous loop. The trail’s gentle grade of 122 feet relative elevation is suitable for families with children or anyone looking for an easier hike in the Reserve. In spring and early summer enjoy the running creek and small cascading waterfall. Outstanding scenery, sculpted granite pinnacles, and a diversity of plants and animals await you.
Geological Interpretive Trail1–2 hours · 15 stops
A self-guided journey to discovering the geology at City of Rocks National Reserve. The 1 mile Geological Interpretive Trail is the perfect short hike to: - see fascinating geological formations up close - examine the difference between the Green Creek Complex and Almo Pluton - learn about the geologic history of this landscape Check out Intro 1, 2, and 3 on your way to the first station.
Entrance fees
No entrance fee.