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 old. Climbers find the younger granite of the Almo Pluton to be some of the best rock they've ever ascended. Established by Congress in 1988 as a National Reserve, City of Rocks encompasses 14,407 acres of federal, state, and private lands containing grand scenery, rich cultural history, and places of relative solitude and silence. The Reserve's visitor center in Almo provides interpretive exhibits and detailed information about camping, hiking, and other recreational opportunities.
The Park Today
November 17, 2009
The visitor center is open weekdays, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except winter holidays. The Reserve is open year-round, although some roads may be impassable due to snow.
The water has been winterized in the park but you can still get water at the frost free spigot south of the Visitor Center located in Almo.
The winter season is fast approaching with temperatures in the mid 40’s and lows in the low 20's.
City of Rocks National Reserve is beginning a general management planning process, and is inviting public input. For details on how to comment and attend a public workshop, Please visit our GMP page at http://www.nps.gov/ciro/parkmgmt/gmp.htm.
The Elba-Almo Road, which has been undergoing reconstruction for several years, is now complete. The road meets state of Idaho standards and is safe and suitable for all RV's and trailers.
All businesses in Almo are operational for the season. Lodging, dining, camping supplies, gasoline, diesel, ATM, and internet service are locally available.
Enjoy your visit!
Nestled amidst the mountain peaks of the Albion Mountain Range lies City of Rocks National Reserve. Embracing a sagebrush steppe valley, spectacular granite rock formations, pinon/juniper tree stands and alpine-like meadows, the reserve presents an inspirational landscape. Recreational activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, picnicking, rock climbing, backpacking, Nordic skiing, photography and horseback riding. The City of Rocks Visitor Center is located in Almo. An all-weather route through Almo is open year-round. The City of Rocks Backcountry Byway through the reserve may become impassable in winter. Check with the park for the most current road conditions.
Geology
Some of the granitic rock formations here are 2.5 billion years old. They are among the oldest formations found in the United States. The fantastic rocks are shaped by weathering. Many people see animals, faces, or buildings in the rocks. What you see is limited only by your imagination.
The image below provides a 360 degree view of the park. Left click to move within the image. Pressing the shift key will allow you to zoom in. Ctrl allows you to zoom out.
Climbing
City of Rocks is one of the finest granite-face-climbing sites anywhere. About 700 routes have been developed to date. One hundred to 300-foot spires provide most of the climbing opportunities, although there are 600-foot spires which provide extended adventures. Privately published climbing guides, available for sale at Reserve headquarters, are the best source of information for the serious climber. Check at headquarters for climbing restrictions. The City of Rocks area was an important landmark on the California Trail. Pioneer diaries from 1843 on describe the rocks in vivid detail as “a city of tall spires,” “steeple rocks” and a display of “all manner of fantastic shapes.”
Camping
Camping is at designated standard sites.
Additional information about City of Rocks National Reserve, see the National Parks Service website.