Castle Rocks State Park

The Magic Valley is home to large collections of granite spires that rise out of the grassland valleys like visitors from a distant world. Castle Rocks State Park is one of the best and most accessible displays of granite towers in the area, much like neighboring City of Rocks to the south. The park has long been a mecca for local climbers seeking to test their mettle on the grippy rock surface. Thousands of climbs are scattered throughout the rock towers and boulders, and visitors are offered a chance to see them up close on the many trails that weave through the park. 

The formations have long served as a way-finding tool for travelers in the area, with evidence of human visitors dating back 9,000 years. Spectacular formations are named for their appearance or climbing experience. Red Rib, Shock and Awe, and Jug Wall are just a few of the areas of the park that are marked on the signage along the Boundary Trail that circumnavigates the rocks. A plethora of small boulders are scattered about the site, and the spires themselves offer sport, traditional, and multi-pitch climbing options. 

The sky offers a range of colors throughout the day, and the high desert location will leave you looking for shade by day and a warm sleeping bag at night. The 7,500-foot Smoky Mountain is nearby and home to Idaho's largest forest of pinyon pines, which thrive in this climate.

Yurts are available for reservation online, and they are often booked ahead of time. Small picnic areas are available on site, and visitors are also allowed to find natural rock features on which to enjoy their packed meals. However, there have been issues with pollution in the past, and it is vital to follow the Leave No Trace guidelines to preserve this area for years to come.