50 State Challenge - IDAHO

Idaho may not come to mind as an ideal spot to spend a vacation there. However, Idaho has some amazing natural oddities that you can't find anywhere else. For example, who knew that Idaho had an ancient lava field?

The Craters of the Moon National Park in Idaho is truly one of a kind. Craters of the Moon is in south-central Idaho, half way between Boise and Yellowstone National Park. Craters of the Moon is one of the largest lava fields in the United States. There are 60 visible lava flows here and the oldest was formed 15,000 years ago.

One of the many lava fields at the park

The park is open all year round, but the winter snow may prevent cars from accessing some of the park. The visitor center is also open year round from 8 am to 4:30 pm.  The entrance fee is only $8 per vehicle and those entering the park by bike, motorcycle or foot only have to pay $4 per person. People under the age of 15 are free to enter and during the winter when the park roads are close there is no fee.

Day trips are very common here, but a lot of people love to stay the night as well. There is a campground that is open from May through November and has 51 sites available. There are no reservations at this campground as it is a first come first served basis. During the summer months its only $10 per site and $6 for non summer months. Water, restrooms, charcoal grills and picnic tables are also available at the campsite.

Besides enjoying the scenery, Craters of the Moon National Park has several outdoor activities to enjoy. Hiking is probably the most popular activity to do. For a list of hiking trail, you can check them out here.  Another popular activity here is exploring the vast cave system and lava tubes. For more information on cave exploration click here 

Craters of the Moon 

P.O. Box 29

Arco, ID 83213

Visitor Info - 208-527-1335

The Grand Canyon of the East

Letchworth State Park 

I doubt any one from outside of New York State has heard of Letchworth State Park.  It's a shame more people haven't heard of this natural beauty that's in Americas backyard.

Letchworth State Park is located about 40 miles southwest of Rochester and about 60 miles southeast of Buffalo, New York. The park itself is about 16-18 miles long and covers 14,350 acres of land.

Some of the major attractions at the park are the 3 large waterfalls on the Genesee River. The three major waterfalls are called the Upper, Middle and Lower Falls and they are located in the southern part of the park. The highest waterfall in the state of New York is located at Letchworth Park. There are also 50 other small waterfalls found in the tributaries.

Middle Falls

Letchworth Park got the name "Grand Canyon of the East" because of the gorge formed by the river. Some rock walls reach heights of over 600ft. Hikers can choose from 66 miles of hiking trails that take you to some of the most scenic places on the East Coast.

The park also offers trails for horseback riding, biking, and snowmobiling. If you don't want to go on the trails there are a number of other activities to do. Whitewater rafting, kayaking and hot air ballooning are also available. If you choose to go hot air ballooning make sure you do it in the fall, it is an unforgettable experience.

If you find yourself in New York and you are sick of the city, come visit Letchworth Park. It's only $8 to park, but it's completely free to explore one of the most beautiful sights on the East Coast.

For more info click here