Thursday, June 20, 2013

Craters of the Moon

Craters of the Moon, so named because that's what it looks like, is an area of volcanic rocks and craters. This area in Idaho is the most seismically active area in North America.  This area has had an active volcanic eruption every 2000 years for the last 30,000 years. By the way, the last volcanic action was about 2100 years ago.


We took a scenic drive and took a few short hikes. 
 
 

 

We were amazed at the abundant wildflowers, many just starting to sprout out of the lava rock.  It was a stark contrast to see green plants with flowers growing out of the black volcanic rock. We imagine that in a few weeks the hills will be a riot of color.   


We spent the next day waiting out a series of storm fronts that passed through the area.  Strong winds and dust storms don't mix with driving a motorhome.  Even though we were parked in a campground the winds were strong enough to rock our 15 Ton home on wheels. We 'turtled up' (brought in all the slide out rooms)  to help avoid damage until the wind storm was over.  It was a little scary.  

For more pictures of Craters National Monument click Craters

(Thanks to Jim for supplying the text for this post.)