The Tree Molds Trail is an easy 1 mile hike in Craters of the Moon National Monument to a unique feature in a lava flow. As the lava flowed through the still-living trees, the reaction left a mold of the trees in the lava. Along the way, hikers are treated to a small cone as well as an expansive lava field.

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Tree Molds Trail Description

The Tree Molds Trail begins by gradually ascending through sagebrush-covered hills where it soon emerges on the caldera rim of a small crater. Beyond the crater, you’ll continue through small rises and hills with Big Cinder Butte consistently on your left. The silent landscape is only interrupted by the occasional breeze.

Soon an expansive lava field opens up in front of you. The trail meanders between the lava field and the vegetation-rich hills on the left. The limber pines rise high above on the hills, soon beginning to thin out around a couple of bends. You’ll pass through a small hill where the trail then drops back toward the lava field, cutting through sagebrush on its way. A step up brings you onto the lava where the tree molds wait just a short distance beyond, marked by sign posts. The trail itself ends just a short distance after.

Getting There

From the Robert Limbert Visitor Center, head south on the main park road for 2.8 miles, then heading right at the signed turn toward the Tree Molds. The road will dead-end at the parking area.