Craters of the Moon National Monument celebrates 100 years; How you can participate

BUTTE, Idaho (KIFI) - The Craters of the Moon National Monument celebrates 100 years this May through September.

This summer, the National Parks Service (NPS) will celebrate the centennial by hosting a variety of public activities and events each month.

These include special exhibits and presentations, star parties, full moon, wildflower, and geology hikes, and activities led by five artists-in-residence.

Activities and events will center on different themes or “phases of the moon,” that reflect the varied perspectives, values, and significance of Craters of the Moon National Monument over the last 100 years, according to park directors.

"We're really using the opportunity to highlight some of these additional, features of interest, which we call the phases of the moon," said Craters of the Moon superintendent Wade Vagias. "In addition to, obviously, the geologic wonders that are here within Craters of the Moon."

President Calvin Coolidge issued the proclamation establishing the monument in 1924. He described the area as "a weird and scenic landscape peculiar to itself."

'We are really encouraging the public to think of this as a destination in its own right, not just a stop on the way to somewhere else," said Jennifer Jones of the National Parks Service. 

"There's almost an unlimited amount of opportunities for outdoor recreation at craters of the moon. There's really something for everyone, from driving the scenic seven mile Loop Road to hiking on more than ten miles of trails, to exploring the lava to gaze, stargazing to camping."

The park will also waive entrance fees to the national monument on Saturday, April 20 in celebration of National Park Week. It also applies to all other national parks, including Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.