We are Celebrating 11 years of Crater Crawl!
10K Hike or Run Around the Rings
2.9 Mile Out-and-Back Hike or Run to the East Crater Viewpoint
Participants will run or hike a challenging 10K (6.2miles) course that takes them around The Crater Rings, a unique site featuring one of the very few examples of volcanic pit craters in the continental United States, and thus recognized as a National Natural Landmark.
The Crater Rings are adjacent, symmetrical volcanic pit craters, about 8 miles northwest of Mountain Home, Idaho. Situated at the top of a broad shield volcano, the twin craters are thought to have once housed lakes of molten lava that belched violent fire fountain eruptions much like Halemaumau Crater of the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii. The eastern of the two craters is about 3000 ft across and 350 ft deep; the western crater is 2500 ft across and 300 ft deep. The volcano is estimated to be less than 2 million years old, making it the youngest shield volcano in the area. Click here to visit a very informative website about a similar volcano, the Erta Ale volcano, which is still active.
The race course will follow a jeep road to the top of the shield volcano, then around the Crater Rings (see the course map below). Be prepared for some strenuous ups and downs (see the elevation profile below.) Adding to the challenge will be the desert heat, which is certain to conjure up images of the craters' ancient lakes of molten lava. Relief will come in the way of 3 hydration stations located along the course, the first at 2.1 miles, 2nd at 3.4 miles, and 3rd at 5.1 miles. Despite the challenges, this event is meant for anyone who might enjoy a supported outing in a very unique volcanic setting, whether they are a competitive trail runner, casual hiker, or anything in between.
We also have a 2.9 mile out-and-back course that leads to a spectacular view of the east crater. This is a great option for those who would like to experience the craters, but don't really want to travel all the way around them on a rough and challenging course.
