City of Rocks National Reserve, Idaho
“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 Wilkins, one of the first wagon travelers through the area, 1849
Imagine a landscape sculpted by eons of geological activity, a place where towering granite spires pierce the sky, and ancient forests whisper tales of bygone eras. This is the City of Rocks National Reserve, a stunning natural sanctuary nestled against the majestic Albion Mountain Range in southern Idaho. Spanning over 14,000 acres, this reserve is a treasure trove of scenic wonders, historical significance, and recreational opportunities.
The City of Rocks National Reserve is more than just a collection of interesting rock formations; it’s a living tapestry woven with threads of geological history, Native American heritage, pioneer trails, and the enduring spirit of the American West. This unique landscape captivates visitors with its dramatic beauty, inviting them to explore its hidden canyons, climb its challenging rock faces, and immerse themselves in its rich cultural past.
A Geological Masterpiece
The defining feature of the City of Rocks National Reserve is, of course, its remarkable rock formations. These granite spires, some reaching hundreds of feet in height, are the result of millions of years of geological processes. The granite itself was formed deep within the earth’s crust during the Precambrian era, over 2.5 billion years ago. Subsequent tectonic activity uplifted the granite, and relentless erosion by wind, water, and ice sculpted it into the bizarre and beautiful shapes we see today.
The formations are not uniform. They are a diverse collection of spires, pinnacles, arches, and balanced rocks, each with its own unique character. Some resemble familiar objects, such as Elephant Rock, which bears a striking resemblance to its namesake. Others, like the Devil’s Bedstead, are more abstract and evocative, sparking the imagination. Stripe Rock stands out with its distinct bands of color, a testament to the different mineral compositions within the granite. The sheer variety of shapes and sizes creates a surreal and awe-inspiring landscape, truly deserving of the name "City of Rocks."
Echoes of the Past: Native American Heritage
Long before European settlers arrived, the City of Rocks National Reserve was home to the Shoshone and Bannock tribes. These resourceful people roamed the area, hunting buffalo and gathering nuts, relying on the land for sustenance and survival. The unique rock formations provided shelter and vantage points, and the valleys offered fertile grounds for foraging.
While tangible evidence of their presence is scarce, the spirit of the Shoshone and Bannock people lingers in the landscape. Their deep connection to the land, their knowledge of its resources, and their enduring legacy are an integral part of the City of Rocks story.
The California Trail: A Highway to the West
The City of Rocks played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States. Beginning in the early 1840s, the California Trail, a major overland route for emigrants heading to California, passed directly through the area. Wagon trains, filled with families seeking new lives and fortunes, traversed the rugged terrain, leaving their mark on the landscape.
The towering rock formations served as a vital landmark for these pioneers, a welcome sight after weeks of arduous travel across the vast plains. The emigrants often wrote their names and messages in axle grease on the rock faces, creating a historical record that can still be seen today. These inscriptions, faded but still visible, offer a poignant glimpse into the lives and dreams of those who braved the challenges of the Oregon and California Trails.
The City of Rocks became a crucial stop on the Applegate Trail in 1846 for travelers heading to Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Two years later, the Mormon Battalion blazed a trail from Granite Pass to Salt Lake, further solidifying the area’s importance. The discovery of gold at Sutter’s Creek in California in 1848 triggered a massive influx of emigrants, transforming the trickle of wagons into a flood. Statistics indicate that over 70,000 emigrants used the California Trail in 1849 and 1850 alone.
From Stagecoaches to Homesteads: Later History
After the peak of the California Trail era, the City of Rocks continued to be a significant transportation corridor. Numerous freight and stage routes crisscrossed the area, connecting Kelton, Utah, with the burgeoning settlements of Idaho, including Boise. John Halley’s stage route, which linked the railroad at Kelton to Idaho’s mining activities, played a vital role in the early economic development of the region.
In the late 19th century, homesteaders began to arrive, drawn by the promise of land and opportunity. They practiced dryland farming and ranching, eking out a living in the harsh environment. While farming declined during the drought years of the 1920s and 1930s, ranching proved more resilient and continues to this day. The remnants of old homesteads, including weathered outbuildings and crumbling stone fences, stand as silent reminders of these early settlers.
A National Reserve is Born
Recognizing the area’s unique geological features, historical significance, and recreational potential, the City of Rocks was designated a National Reserve on November 18, 1988. This designation provides protection for the area’s natural and cultural resources while allowing for continued recreational use.
Today, the City of Rocks National Reserve is administered cooperatively by the National Park Service and the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. This partnership ensures that the reserve is managed in a way that balances preservation with public access.
A Playground for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The City of Rocks is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails wind through the valleys and canyons, offering stunning views of the rock formations and surrounding landscape. Wildlife abounds, with opportunities to spot deer, elk, birds of prey, and other native species. Camping and backpacking are popular activities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the solitude and beauty of the reserve. In the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing provide a different perspective on this winter wonderland.
However, the City of Rocks is perhaps best known as a world-class rock climbing destination. The towering granite spires offer a diverse range of climbing routes, from beginner-friendly cracks to challenging multi-pitch ascents. Climbers from around the globe flock to the City of Rocks to test their skills and experience the thrill of scaling these iconic formations.
Planning Your Visit
The City of Rocks Visitor Center is located in Almo, Idaho, and provides information about the reserve’s history, geology, and recreational opportunities. An all-weather route through Almo is open year-round, while the road via Oakley is closed during winter months.
Directions:
- From Boise and the west: Take I-84 to Declo exit 216 and south to Idaho route 77 to Albion, Elba, and Almo.
- From Pocatello and Idaho Falls: Take I-86 & I-84 to the Declo exit and then south to Almo.
- From Salt Lake City: Take I-15 north to Tremonton, then west on I-84 to Snowville and then routes 30 and 42, or continue north on I-84 to Sublette exit 245 and go west toward Malta, Elba, and Almo.
Contact Information:
City of Rocks National Reserve
P.O. Box 169
Almo, Idaho 83312-0169
208-824-5519
http://www.nps.gov/ciro/
Whether you are a seasoned climber, a history buff, or simply someone seeking natural beauty, the City of Rocks National Reserve offers an unforgettable experience. Come and discover the legends etched in stone, the stories whispered by the wind, and the enduring magic of this extraordinary place.