Arco IdahoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Arco, Idaho.
1. Craters of the Moon National Monument
UNIQUE VOLCANIC LANDSCAPE
Craters of the Moon National Monument is a vast ocean of blackened lava flows offering opportunities to relax, explore, and enjoy for all ages and abilities. Visitors can drive the scenic 7-mile loop road that provides access to trails taking them over, under, and around various volcanic features including lava tubes and caves. The monument is an easy day trip from Boise, Sun Valley, and Idaho Falls, with the visitor center open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (8 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day).
2. Experimental Breeder Reactor No. 1 (EBR-I) Atomic Museum
WORLD'S FIRST BREEDER REACTOR
Experimental Breeder Reactor I is a decommissioned research reactor and U.S. National Historic Landmark located in the desert about 18 miles southeast of Arco. It was the world's first breeder reactor, offering a glimpse into America's atomic history. The museum provides free tours from 9 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday.
3. Number Hill
HISTORIC NUMBERED HILLSIDE
Number Hill is a distinctive landmark in Arco featuring graduation years painted on the hillside by local high school students. This tradition dates back decades and has become an iconic symbol of the town's history and community spirit. Behind Number Hill, visitors can find a natural arch that adds to the geological interest of the area.
4. Bottolfsen Park
LOCAL COMMUNITY RECREATION
Bottolfsen Park serves as a central recreational area for Arco residents and visitors alike. The park offers space for relaxation, picnics, and community gatherings throughout the year. It's a perfect spot for families to spend an afternoon enjoying outdoor fun in the heart of Arco.
5. Baptist Community Church
HISTORIC LOCAL WORSHIP
Baptist Community Church is a historical place of worship in Arco that serves the local faith community. The church represents an important part of Arco's cultural and spiritual heritage. Visitors interested in local architecture and community institutions often include this stop on their tour of the town.
6. Upper Iron Bog Lake Trail
SCENIC WILDERNESS HIKE
Upper Iron Bog Lake trail takes hikers through partly rough terrain just outside of Arco up Antelope Creek. This 1.5-mile easy to moderate trail leads to a lovely lake and offers opportunities to spot elk, deer, and grouse in their natural habitat. The best time to experience this trail is from early July through mid-October when the weather is most favorable.
7. Fish Creek Summit Trail
MULTI-CANYON WILDERNESS TREK
Fish Creek Summit is a diverse 4-mile trail that crosses multiple canyons including Deer Creek Canyon and Horse Thief Canyon. Hikers traverse a rocky ridge with patches of alpine fir and lodge pole timber while enjoying rich bouquets of wildflowers and possibly spotting domestic sheep. This easy to moderate trail is best experienced from July through mid-October when the natural beauty is at its peak.
8. Arco Pass Loop
SCENIC TOWN CIRCUIT
Arco Pass Loop offers visitors a circuit through and around the town of Arco, showcasing its unique desert landscape. The route connects various local attractions and provides opportunities to experience the town's distinctive character. This path serves as an excellent introduction to Arco for first-time visitors wanting to get oriented to the area.
9. Big Lost River
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Big Lost River is a popular fishing destination near Arco offering anglers opportunities to catch various fish species in a scenic setting. The river flows through the desert landscape, creating a unique ecosystem that attracts wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. Its proximity to Arco makes it an accessible day trip for visitors staying in town.
10. Mackay Reservoir
OUTDOOR RECREATION HUB
Mackay Reservoir is a recreational body of water near Arco that offers fishing, boating, and shoreline activities. The reservoir is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery that enhances the outdoor experience for visitors. It serves as a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking water-based recreation in the area.
11. Mackay Mining Tour
SELF-GUIDED HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE
The Mackay self-guided mining tour takes visitors through the rich mining history of this area near Arco. Explorers can view historical mining structures and learn about the industry that shaped the region's development. This educational experience provides insight into an important aspect of Idaho's economic and cultural heritage.
12. Antelope Canyon
WINTER SNOWMOBILING PARADISE
Antelope Canyon is a popular destination for snowmobiling enthusiasts near Arco during the winter months. The canyon offers spectacular scenery and well-maintained trails that attract winter sports fans from across the region. During warmer months, the area transforms into a hiking and wildlife viewing destination with diverse ecological features.
13. Copper Basin
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE AREA
Copper Basin is a recreational area near Arco offering activities like snowmobiling, hiking, and wildlife viewing throughout the year. The basin features stunning mountain landscapes and diverse terrain that appeals to adventure seekers of all types. Its relative proximity to Arco makes it an excellent option for visitors looking to explore beyond the immediate town area.
14. Natural Arch
HIDDEN GEOLOGICAL WONDER
The Natural Arch is a geological formation located just behind Number Hill in Arco. This natural stone bridge was formed by erosion over thousands of years and represents one of the area's unique geological features. Visitors seeking interesting natural formations often make the short trek to view this hidden gem of the Arco landscape.
15. Arco City Trails
URBAN PATHWAY NETWORK
Arco City Trails provide a network of walking paths throughout the town, connecting various attractions and neighborhoods. These trails offer residents and visitors alike a way to experience the unique charm of this small Idaho town at a leisurely pace. The paths are maintained throughout the year and serve as both recreational amenities and practical transportation routes for the community.