Gooding Little City of Rocks

USA / Idaho / Gooding /
 scenic area  Add category
 Upload a photo

NOT to be confused with the The City of Rocks National Reserve is one of southern Idaho’s best backcountry adventures. The 14,407-acre reserve is situated at the south end of the Albion Mountains,
This is From City of Gooding website: Gooding’s Little City of Rocks – Gooding City of Rocks consists of a type of rock (tuff) crea ted by an ancient volcanic ash-fall. Freeze-thaw erosion processes create monoliths rising from the desert floor north of Gooding. The eerie, wind-carved formations, called “hoodoos”, are frequently covered with bright green lichens. The Gooding Little City of Rocks has landscapes of exotic geological formations and numerous hiking trails; some trails are obvious, others have to searched for. The main trail can be hiked easily in a few hours by healthy persons. Side trails can add considerably to that time, but can also lead you to some magnificent views that few others see; including the possiblity of discovering petroglyphs hidden in some of the side canyons.
Hoodoos, arches, mushroom caps and tuffs dominate the many canyons of this unusual location. The canyons are home to a number of different wildlife; including grouse, raptors, deer, and elk; not to mention the ever present coyote.
Primitive camping is permitted, but if you brought it with you, be sure to take it when you leave.
The road up to the earthen dam is private property and the owner has it posted as closed when wet. The owner, at his discretion, may lock the gate if vehicles are seen in the area when the roads are wet. Otherwise, most vehicles should have little trouble making the 1 mile trip into the parking area.
Remember, as always, when in desert country during the early spring through the fall months to be careful where you step or stick your hands. Although Gooding is only about 20 minutes away, it can take a long time to get aid to someone. Be sure to take plenty of water, esp ecially during the warmer months.
The coordinates will take you to the earthen dam and the entrance into the main canyon. Turn off Hwy 46 at: N43 06.391 W114 40.274 to reach the trailhead. Don’t forget your camera!
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   43°7'30"N   114°41'29"W
This article was last modified 9 years ago