Approaches

From East. The road out of Arco is flat, and judging from the view towards the horizon, it stays that way. But appearances can be deceiving, and little by little, the grade along this straight raceway increases, until it becomes clear that we are heading for a gap in the low ridge, that is capped by a lava flow in the distance. That is Craters of the Moon National Monument. Even though the shoulder is rumble stripped, riding to the right of it is possible, especially at speeds heading slowly into a strong headwind, as was the case during my last ride. Along the way are interesting views of the black lumpy landscape to the south. The summit is reached very soon after the turnoff onto the national monument loop road.

From West. (described downwards) When I looked at the profile of this approach after having finished it in late afternoon with a fierce headwind, I was really surprised to find out that I actually had descended over a thousand feet. The wind was so much more of a factor. But this gentle edge of mountains lined with a black lava flow has a particular charm, even in a head wind, but especially on a cross country ride in pleasant temperatures and clear sunlight, which was the way I experienced this road for the very first time.

The extend of the national monument lasts roughly as long as the black lava flow next to the road, which is surprisingly many miles past the summit.