The landscape of Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is a testament to the violent geological forces that shaped the earth, yet it is equally defined by the enduring presence of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. For centuries, this "weird and scenic landscape" has served as the historical homeland for these Indigenous peoples, long before the area received its federal designation. Recently, a significant cultural milestone was reached with the unveiling of new interpretive signs along the Devil's Orchard nature trail. These signs represent the culmination of a six-year collaborative process between the National Park Service and the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. This initiative moves beyond traditional park interpretation to actively integrate the oral histories, languages, and cultural narratives of the Shoshone and Bannock peoples into the visitor experience. The new signage serves as a bridge, connecting the modern visitor to the deep historical roots of the land, transforming the monument from a mere geological curiosity into a living story of cultural continuity.
The installation of these signs marks a pivotal shift in how the National Park Service approaches cultural resource interpretation. Historically, national monuments often prioritized geological features while marginalizing the human history of Indigenous stewardship. The new signs at Craters of the Moon rectify this omission by centering the Shoshone-Bannock perspective. Through a partnership that began six years ago, the tribes have provided the content, ensuring that the stories told are authentic and accurate. This collaboration highlights the tribes' deep connection to the volcanic landscape, emphasizing their adaptation to an environment that might appear barren to the untrained eye. The narrative presented on these signs is not merely informational; it is a restorative act, acknowledging the displacement that occurred when the area was designated a national monument a century ago.
The Geological and Cultural Convergence
Craters of the Moon is characterized by a vast ocean of lava flows, scattered islands of cinder cones, and fields of sagebrush. It is a place where the violent past of volcanic eruptions is still visible in the present landscape, and where geological activity is likely to continue in the future. However, the new interpretive signs reveal that this landscape is not a "wasteland" as it might superficially appear. Nolan Brown, a Shoshone-Bannock tribal Language and Culture specialist, noted that the tribes have adapted and flourished in this homeland for generations. The signs serve to educate the public and the tribal membership alike about this deep history, challenging the perception of the area as lifeless.
The convergence of geology and culture is central to the new signage. The signs do not simply describe the lava fields; they explain how the Shoshone-Bannock people understood these features through their own cosmological lens. The volcanic formations are not just rock; they are the physical manifestations of tribal origin stories. This dual perspective enriches the visitor's understanding, moving the experience from a simple nature walk to a journey through time and culture. The monument attracts over 250,000 visitors annually, generating significant economic benefits for the local Idaho economy. However, the new signs also serve as a reminder of the historical cost of that designation. Wade Vagias, the superintendent of Craters of the Moon, has acknowledged the role the monument's designation played in displacing the Tribes from their ancestral lands. The new signs are part of a broader effort to tell a more inclusive story, acknowledging both the beauty of the landscape and the complexity of its history.
The Mythology of the Volcanic Landscape
The most profound aspect of the new signage is the inclusion of specific tribal oral histories. These stories provide an alternative explanation for the formation of Craters of the Moon, grounding the landscape in a rich narrative tradition. One of the central tales shared on the signs involves a creature known as the "doe-gwo'ah pah-do-up." This snake-like reptile is a foundational figure in Shoshone-Bannock mythology. According to the narrative shared by Rose Ann Abrahamson, a tribal member and descendant of Sacajawea, this creature nested in southern Idaho on what the tribes called "salmon eater lands."
The story describes a dramatic event that explains the volcanic features of the monument. One day, during a storm, lightning struck near the creature. In response, the creature tightened its coils around a small mountain. The story recounts that as it squeezed, molten rock was forced from underneath the ground, creating the lava fields and cinder cones visible today. As Abrahamson stated during the rededication ceremony, "The old people said it caused this place that you see here today, Craters of the Moon." This mythological explanation provides a cultural context for the geological reality, offering visitors a different way to perceive the landscape. It is one of many stories passed down through the tribes, now made accessible to the public through the new interpretive signs.
Another significant narrative highlighted by the signs involves the antelope. During the ceremony rededicating the signage, Susan Avilla Dixey shared a song passed down from her grandmother. The song honors the antelope, described in the story as the saviors of the people. The narrative explains that when the volcano erupted, the antelope saved the people from the lava. This story underscores the deep symbiotic relationship between the people, the animals, and the land. The inclusion of such stories on the signs transforms the Devil's Orchard nature trail into a space where visitors can learn not just about the physical features of the monument, but about the spiritual and cultural significance of those features to the Shoshone-Bannock people.
The Rededication Ceremony and Community Engagement
The unveiling of the new signs was marked by a formal rededication ceremony that emphasized community involvement. The event was attended by colleagues, friends, and fellow tribal members who gathered to celebrate the restoration of this cultural history. The ceremony included the sharing of stories and songs, creating a powerful atmosphere of cultural revitalization. Nolan Brown emphasized the opportunity to welcome the public and educate them about the deep history of the region. The presence of tribal members like Susan Avilla Dixey and Rose Ann Abrahamson during the ceremony highlighted the importance of direct involvement in the interpretation process.
The ceremony served multiple purposes. It was a celebration of the completed project, but it was also an act of reclamation. By placing tribal stories on the signs, the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are reclaiming their narrative within the federal park system. The event also highlighted the linguistic aspect of the project, with phrases in the Shoshoni language included on the signs. For instance, the phrase "Aishen nemme teviwa" translates to "This is our homeland," and "Tsaande e pithei" means "It is good you are here." These linguistic elements are crucial for preserving the language and ensuring that the cultural identity of the tribes remains vibrant.
The rededication also drew attention to the economic and social impact of the monument. While the park brings up to $12 million to the local economy, the ceremony acknowledged the historical displacement caused by the monument's establishment. This duality is central to the new interpretive approach. The signs do not shy away from this difficult history. Instead, they present a balanced view that honors the land's natural beauty while acknowledging the human cost of its preservation. This honest approach builds trust between the National Park Service and the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, fostering a model for future collaborative projects.
Trail Features and Visitor Logistics
The new interpretive signs are located specifically along the Devil's Orchard nature trail. This trail is one of several key features within the monument, each offering unique insights into the volcanic landscape. The Devil's Orchard trail is distinct from other trails in the area, such as the Tree Molds Trail, which features imprints of lava-charred trees, and the Broken Top Trail, which circles a cinder cone. The Wilderness Trail leads to molds of upright trees, known as "lava trees," and extends into the wilderness area.
Visitors to Craters of the Moon should be aware of the specific logistics and safety considerations associated with the trails and caves. The monument offers a visitor center located 18 miles southwest of Arco, ID, on US 20/26/93. This center provides water and restrooms year-round. For those interested in exploring the lava tubes, such as Dewdrop, Boy Scout, Beauty, and Indian Tunnel, there is a 0.8-mile trail that leads to the cave area. However, exploring these natural caves requires preparation. Visitors must obtain a permit, carry a flashlight, and wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes. The signs and ranger stations provide warnings that exploring these wild caves can be dangerous, and visitors are advised to stay out of hazardous sections marked with signs or barriers.
The campground at Craters of the Moon operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted for individual sites. It offers water, restrooms, charcoal grills, and picnic tables, but no hookups. Wood is scarce, and wood fires are prohibited. For groups of 10 to 30, a separate camping area is available, though reservations are required via recreation.gov. The loop drive, which is closed from November to April, becomes an excellent location for skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. For those bringing firearms, visitors are advised to consult a ranger or the park website for specific regulations.
Economic and Historical Context
The significance of the new signs extends beyond cultural preservation; they are also part of a larger economic and historical context. Craters of the Moon receives over 250,000 visitors annually, and during the summer months, the monument sees an average of 1,650 visitors per day. This high volume of tourism generates approximately $12 million in revenue for the local economy. However, the history of the monument's designation is complex. It marks 100 years since the area was first designated a national monument and preserve by the federal government. While this designation has benefited the region economically, it also played a role in displacing the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes from their traditional lands.
The new signs acknowledge this tension. They represent a move towards a more inclusive narrative that does not ignore the displacement but integrates the tribal perspective into the official park interpretation. This approach is supported by the National Park Service's Natural Resource Reports, which have documented the biological diversity and cultural resources of the monument. These documents, such as "Interpreting Cultural Resources at Craters of the Moon," provide the scientific and historical foundation for the new signage. The collaboration ensures that the interpretation is based on rigorous research and authentic tribal knowledge.
The economic impact of the monument is significant, yet the new signs ensure that the human element of this history is not lost. The partnership between the National Park Service and the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes demonstrates a commitment to ethical interpretation. By integrating the tribes' stories and language, the monument offers a more complete picture of the region's history. This holistic approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also serves as a model for how national parks can honor Indigenous heritage while managing natural resources.
Comparative Overview of Trails and Cultural Elements
To better understand the scope of the new interpretive efforts, it is helpful to compare the various trails and the specific cultural elements introduced on the signs. The following table outlines the key trails and their unique features, alongside the cultural narratives associated with the Devil's Orchard trail.
| Trail Name | Distance | Key Features | Cultural Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Devil's Orchard | Variable | New interpretive signs on Shoshone-Bannock history | Features stories of the "doe-gwo'ah pah-do-up" and antelope salvation narratives. |
| Tree Molds Trail | 1 mile | Imprints of lava-charred trees | Geological focus on volcanic tree molds. |
| Broken Top Trail | 1.8 miles | Circles a cinder cone | Geological focus on volcanic cones. |
| Wilderness Trail | 2 miles | Leads to "lava trees" and wilderness area | Connects visitors to the broader ecosystem. |
| Cave Area | 0.8 miles | Access to lava tubes (Dewdrop, Boy Scout, Beauty, Indian Tunnel) | Requires permits and safety gear; highlights the danger and wonder of natural caves. |
The Devil's Orchard trail stands out because it is the primary location for the new cultural signage. While other trails focus primarily on the geological formations, the Devil's Orchard integrates the Shoshone-Bannock perspective directly into the physical path. This distinction is crucial for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of the land. The signs on this trail provide context that the other trails lack, turning a simple hike into a cultural lesson. The integration of language, such as the Shoshoni phrases, adds a layer of authenticity that enriches the experience.
Conclusion
The new interpretive signs at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve represent a significant step forward in the representation of Indigenous history within the national park system. By collaborating directly with the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, the National Park Service has created a more inclusive and accurate narrative of the landscape. The signs on the Devil's Orchard trail serve as a vital link between the geological past and the cultural present, honoring the deep connection the Shoshone-Bannock people have maintained with this volcanic homeland for generations.
This initiative does more than just display information; it restores the voice of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes to their ancestral land. The stories of the "doe-gwo'ah pah-do-up" and the antelope provide a mythological framework that explains the volcanic landscape, offering visitors a perspective that complements the geological data. The rededication ceremony, attended by tribal members and community leaders, highlighted the importance of these stories and the ongoing relationship between the tribes and the park service.
As visitors explore the monument, they encounter a landscape that is both a geological wonder and a cultural sanctuary. The new signs ensure that the history of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes is not overlooked, acknowledging the displacement that occurred during the monument's designation while celebrating the enduring presence of the people. This balanced approach not only enriches the visitor experience but also sets a precedent for future cultural resource management in national parks. The success of this project lies in its ability to weave together the physical, historical, and cultural threads of Craters of the Moon into a cohesive and respectful narrative.