The City of Rocks in Southern Idaho is full of amazing natural formations. Truly, it’s one of the most spectacular sights of its kind in the world. Since many folks come in here to take in the sights, do some rock climbing, or maybe even a little camping, it’s easy to pass over one of the coolest parts of this area: how these towering geologic wonders were made. Many of the formations in this national reserve have names, often describing what the rocks look like – each its own distinct sculpture, handcrafted my Mother Nature.
One such formation is aptly named: Window Arch. You might overlook this hulking, rocky, peek-a-boo-esque rock, but don’t! Natural bridges like this are incredibly rare, and truly remarkable. And while the most famous arch in the country might just be the one in Utah, we happen to think that Idaho’s own natural bridge is pretty darn special. So head on over to Cassia County and prepare to be amazed!
To enter the Silent City of Rocks is to enter an ancient, gargantuan world of chiseled granite, slowly changing and eroding with time.
One look at the City of Rocks and it's immediately apparent that this is a spectacular and diverse landscape like nothing you've ever seen before. Layers of high-desert flora overlap with eons-old stone in a breathtaking real-life painting of textures and colors.
Windows of all shapes and sizes are everywhere, although many don't have names of their own or may mark entrances to small caverns or offer an endpoint to smaller trails.
Sadly, the caprock itself continues to erode even after the arch has formed, which will ultimately lead to its collapse. Which means let's be careful with these natural beauties to ensure their preservation for years to come!
You can explore the Silent City of Rocks and see how many arches you can count...
Official Directions (from Boise): take I-84 East to exit 216 (Declo); go south on Highway 77 to Conner Creek Junction (stop sign); then turn right (west) on Highway 77 Spur to Almo. The visitor center and the park entrance are south of the post office and businesses.
Idaho never fails to amaze. Much like Idaho’s Balanced Rock, this is a bucket list photo op waiting to happen!
