Arco, Idaho: Lava, Atomic History, and Unusual Discoveries

Arco combines an extraordinary volcanic landscape with chapters of American transportation and technology history. Anyone planning a trip to Arco can choose between trails through young lava fields, historic traces of the Oregon Trail, and insights into the early use of nuclear energy. This combination makes the town an interesting destination for anyone who wants to connect nature with unusual cultural topics.

Volcanic Landscape Southwest of Arco

The Craters of the Moon visitor center is located 18 miles southwest of Arco, Idaho, on U.S. Highways 20, 26, and 93. The protected area contains the largest young lava field in the contiguous 48 U.S. states. Along the trails, visitors can explore cinder cones, ash cones, and lava fields. Around Arco, there is also an opportunity to learn about the unique and fragile lava tubes of Craters of the Moon.

Since 2017, Craters of the Moon has been designated an International Dark Sky Park. Together with the volcanic formations, this creates a landscape theme that clearly differs from classic urban or cultural destinations. If you primarily want to consider nature experiences when choosing your vacation rental, Arco is a practical starting point for further travel planning.

Historic Traces Between Arco and Carey

The history of transportation routes is also part of the town’s character. Goodale’s Cutoff passed near the present-day town of Arco and was an alternative route of the Oregon Trail. Along Highway 20/26/93 between Arco and Carey, this historic route is visible in many places. Anyone interested in settlement history and old travel routes can plan these traces as a separate focus alongside the volcanic landscape.

Atomic History and Unusual Attractions

Arco also has several connections to the history of nuclear energy. Atomic Days takes place in Arco every year and commemorates the fact that the town was the first in the world to be supplied with electricity from a nuclear reactor. ATOMICADE, an arcade, is located in Arco’s former bowling center.

A street park in Arco displays the sail of the fast nuclear submarine USS Hawkbill (SSN-666), known as “The Devil Boat.” The preserved sail of the USS Hawkbill is also located in Arco, where nuclear propulsion technology for submarines got its start. These places give the town an unusual historical profile that differs from the nature experiences of Craters of the Moon.

EBR-I and Planning Your Stay

Another historic point of interest is EBR-I. The facility is a National Historic Landmark where usable electricity was first generated from nuclear energy in 1951. No reservation is required for the free visit; EBR-I is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This allows the visit to be planned after a nature- or history-focused activity without a reservation being required.

When looking for accommodation in Arco, it is worthwhile to determine your personal focus: Should the trip primarily lead to the lava fields and lava tubes, to the traces of Goodale’s Cutoff, or to the sites connected with atomic history? A vacation rental in Arco can serve as a practical base for a trip whose itinerary alternates between landscapes, historic routes, and unusual attractions. In addition, Arco’s Parks and Recreation department provides parks and programs for residents and visitors.

Arco as a Destination with a Distinctive Character

Arco is not a destination with just one attraction. The town represents a large young lava field, a visible route of the Oregon Trail, the history of EBR-I, and the memory of the USS Hawkbill.

For the broader travel overview: Butte County.