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City of Rocks City of Rocks National Reserve Idaho Sculpted granite rocks invite exploration. Hikers explore Elephant Rock. Autumn aspen leaves provide striking color in the heart of the “City.” © DAVE BOWER NPS / WALLACE KECK © ANTONIO PLASCENCIA Emigrants left records of their passing in axle grease. National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Window Arch illustrates the creative weathering of granite. © DAVE BOWER NPS / WALLACE KECK Trails and Travelers IDA SN AKE HO RIV ER A PL IN City of Rocks Arrowleaf balsamroot is one of the more common and showy flowers of the sagebrush steppe. Over 750 species of plants and animals have been documented within the reserve. A few species of special interest include cliff chipmunk, Virginia warbler, Simpson’s hedgehog cactus, and pinyon pine. GRE © MARY SANSEVERINO NEV ADA GREA T S A LT LAKE UTA AT B H ASIN Circle Creek Basin at sunrise © DWIGHT PARISH Slim larkspur © AARON ARTHUR Cliff chipmunk Green-tailed towhee Longhorn plectritis Great basin sagebrush Western columbine Juniper titmouse Gray flycatcher Pinyon jay © TONY GODFREY © LARRY SELMAN © PAUL SLICHTER NPS / WALLACE KECK NPS / WALLACE KECK © ALISON SHEEHEY © LARRY SELMAN © STEPHEN PARSONS We encamped at the City of the Rocks, a noted place from the granite rocks rising abruptly out of the ground. They are in a romantic valley clustered together, which gives them the appearance of a city.—James F. Wilkins,1849 A I N S Exposed granite is subjected to weathering by freezing and thawing water and salt, as well as wind and other naturally corrosive chemicals. These forces create pinnacles, panholes, honeycombs, windows, and arches. Self-discovery of these unusual granite sculptures awaits the modern-day explorer along nearly every trail. NPS / WALLACE KECK U N T City of Rocks is in the Basin and Range province. The granite pluton of the ancient Green Creek Complex and the significantly younger Almo Pluton are best exposed here in the southern Albion Mountains. While only the tips of the plutons are visible, these ancient igneous rocks are like an open window into Earth’s crust. Rough-legged hawk M O As part of the largest overland emigrant route in American history, the reserve contains the most intact and authentic setting of the California Trail. City of Rocks is a landmark and refuge that inspires all who visit. The 14,512-acre reserve exhibits a biogeographic crossroads, where many plants and animals are on the edge of their habitat range. Some plants and animals of the Great Basin—like pinyon pine, pinyon jay, and ringtail—rarely live north of here. Colorado columbine, common in the Rocky Mountains, occurs no farther west. Longhorn plectritis, slim larkspur, and western columbine occur here but rarely east. These overlapping ecological areas provide scientists and students opportunities to observe the ebb and flow of living communities, which can be early warning signs or predictors of ecological change. Y Wagon routes were rarely used after completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869. Regional supply and stagecoach routes connected communities with depots. The City of Rocks stage station provided refreshment and lodging. Homesteaders moved here in the 1870s to graze cattle and dryland farm. Ranching continues today. Emigrant journals describe the steeples, cathedrals, pyramids, windows, and bathtubs of this sculpted granite city and the rocks and processes that may have formed them. Even today, the complex geology attracts professors and students alike. C K Over 200,000 people followed the California Trail through City of Rocks, a name emigrant and artist James F. Wilkins coined in August 1849. Weary by the time they arrived, many found delight and inspiration at this geologic marvel. In 1857 Helen Carpenter wrote, “Women and children wandered off to enjoy the sights of the city. We were … spellbound with the beauty and strangeness of it all.” Here—on land already inhabited by the Shoshone and their ancestors—they rested, grazed stock, and left their names and messages on the rocks. Many were forced to lighten loads, leaving behind precious items before embarking on the most dangerous parts of their trek—Granite Pass, Forty Mile Desert, and the Sierra Nevada. Ecological Crossroads R O Between 1843 and 1882 a mass migration of people headed west. They first sought land, but in 1848 the discovery of gold in California enticed thousands to hit the trail seeking their fortune. Travelers packed tools, food, books, clothes, furniture, and family heirlooms— everything needed to build a new life in a land of promise. The first emigrants followed the landmarks described by fur trappers and early explorers who themselves had followed Native American trails through the area. Others soon followed wagon ruts and published descriptions. They braved weather, hunger, thirst, disease, accidents, and attacks. Many buried loved ones along the way. The obstacles were enormous, but so was the desire for a better life. Nature’s Sculptures Castle Rocks State Park Castle Rocks State Park, near City of Rocks National Reserve, includes outstanding rock formations and remnants of an early 1900s ranch. Activities include birding, horseback riding, hiking, picnicking, rock climbing, and snowshoeing. Reservations are required yearround for Smoky Mountain Campground; go to parksandrecreation. idaho.gov. A motor vehicle entrance fee, annual pass, or Idaho State Parks Passport is required. MORE INFORMATION Castle Rocks State Park PO Box 169 Almo, ID 83312-0169 parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/ parks/castle-rocks Climbing is one of the more popular recreational activities in the reserve. NPS / WALLACE KECK World-Class Rock Climbing City of Rocks is internationally renowned bolting is by permit only; contact the for rock climbing. The granite spires range park for more information. Climbing from 30 to 600 feet high. Their textured is not permitted on rocks within the rock is tailor-made for both sport and California Trail corridor. traditional climbing. City of Rocks offers a mixture of moderate (5.6–5.9) and SAFETY  Do not climb unless you advanced (5.10–5.13) climbs, often found have training and experience. Serious side by side. Single and multi-pitch routes accidents can occur when rock scram- span features and challenges that require bling. There are no signs or fences to a full range of techniques and styles not warn you about natural cliffs and generally found in one climbing area. crevices. Supervise children around About 700 routes have been developed. these features. All climbers should become familiar with Commercial climbing guides operate the reserve’s climbing guides, closures, within the reserve. Ask at the visitor and regulations. Information is posted at center for a list of permitted and the Bath Rock kiosk and is available at authorized guides. the visitor center or website. Registration and permits are not required to climb, but Gear placed in a crack is a form of protection for the climber. © DUNCAN PATTERSON PLANNING YOUR VISIT  City of Rocks National Reserve offers scenic walks along the California Trail, photography, world-class technical rock climbing, hiking, birding, mountain biking, horseback riding, picnicking, camping, and stargazing in this International Dark Sky Park. VISITOR CENTER  The visitor center for City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park is in Almo, Idaho, 44 miles from Burley and 56 miles from Snowville. Stop here for exhibits and information on things to do, road conditions, and current restrictions. Books, maps, and other items to help you enjoy the reserve are also available. SERVICES AND FACILITIES  Restaurants, fuel, lodging, and groceries are available in Almo and other nearby communities. Reserve facilities are primitive. Potable water is available at Bath Rock. This water is for drinking; help us keep the water source safe for all. Treat any other water for drinking by boiling, filtering, or adding chemicals. HIKING  Over 22 miles of hiking trails lead to climbing areas, striking features, and dramatic overlooks. Always carry water and monitor the weather. Elevation ranges from 5,720 to 8,867 feet. Stay on trails to reduce the chance of getting lost. Take note of major landmarks like Graham Peak or Smoky Mountain before departing. Tell someone where you are going. Riding in the backcountry NPS / WALLACE KECK CAMPING  Camping fees and regulations are enforced. Camp in designated areas only. Cutting vegetation and gathering firewood are prohibited. Vault toilets and water stations are centrally located. Most sites include a tent pad, picnic table, and grill. Camping reservations are required year-round; go to parksandrecreation.idaho.gov or call 888-922-6743. Permits are required for overnight backcountry use and must be made prior to arrival; visit the reserve website for information. HUNTING  Hunting is allowed in some areas. Before hunting, contact the Idaho Fish and Game Department for information and regulations or ask at the visitor center. Shooting and target practice are not permitted in the reserve. For firearms regulations check the website. MORE INFORMATION City of Rocks National Reserve PO Box 169 Almo, ID 83312-0169 208-824-5901 www.nps.gov/ciro ACCESSIBILITY  We strive to make facilities, services, and programs accessible to all. The reserve is a mostly undeveloped primitive area. More information is available on the website or at the visitor center. City of Rocks National Reserve is one of over 400 parks in the National Park System. To learn more, visit www.nps.gov. IGPO:2024—427-085/83223 Last updated 2024 Follow us on social media. Use the official NPS App to guide your visit. Select “save this park” to use offline.