Lava Trail System Northbound Loop

The Lava Trail system on the northbound lane of I-15 in southeastern Idaho is the counterpart to the southbound lane’s Lava Trail. These easy (and paved!) trails are welcome for anyone to enjoy, regardless of skill level. Over the course of the enjoyable loops, you’re treated to an educational journey through a lava flow as recent as 4,100 years ago.

Lava Trail Northbound Description

From the rest area parking lot, look for the trail to begin toward the north end. Walk past a few picnic areas and you’ll be greeted with the sign to begin the loops. Which loop(s) you choose to do is only dependent on your time available and the distance you’d like to go. Doing all three loops will still total to less than a mile, so don’t expect anything too strenuous or challenging. The kiosk at the trailhead will also feature a map illustrating the three loops as they traverse the lava landscape.

There’s not much of a specific write-up, since the route can vary and depend on what you’re looking for. There’s also opportunities to cut loops short and return early for any reason. Along the way of each loop, however, you’re offered signs explaining various elements of the lava field. These range from vegetation identifiers to history to the type of lava that flowed. Taking your time and checking out each sign is strongly encouraged to get the most out of your visit.

When you’ve had your fill, follow whichever loop you find yourself on back to the trailhead.

Getting There

From Pocatello, Idaho, head north on I-15 for 34 miles. Look for the rest area pullout, the only rest area within dozens of miles.