Teepee Rocks
Teepee Rocks are a cluster of white, cone-shaped volcanic-ash formations standing in a remote valley of the South Hills south of Oakley — and one of the most genuinely off-the-radar geological destinations in southern Idaho. The formations are ash deposits from supervolcano eruptions in the Twin Falls volcanic region 8 to 10 million years ago. The North American tectonic plate has since drifted west, and the same supervolcano hotspot is now under Yellowstone National Park. These pale teepee shapes are the surviving evidence of when southern Idaho was the fiery center of an erupting hotspot. Reaching Teepee Rocks requires commitment. From Twin Falls, drive about 75 minutes east-southeast to the small town of Oakley. From Oakley, take Trapper Creek Road south for 45 to 50 minutes on a rough gravel road that winds past the Oakley Reservoir and into the South Hills back country. High-clearance or four-wheel-drive is strongly recommended;
Teepee Rocks are a cluster of white, cone-shaped volcanic-ash formations standing in a remote valley of the South Hills south of Oakley — and one of the most genuinely off-the-radar geological destinations in southern Idaho. The formations are ash deposits from supervolcano eruptions in the Twin Falls volcanic region 8 to 10 million years ago. The North American tectonic plate has since drifted west, and the same supervolcano hotspot is now under Yellowstone National Park. These pale teepee shapes are the surviving evidence of when southern Idaho was the fiery center of an erupting hotspot. Reaching Teepee Rocks requires commitment. From Twin Falls, drive about 75 minutes east-southeast to the small town of Oakley. From Oakley, take Trapper Creek Road south for 45 to 50 minutes on a rough gravel road that winds past the Oakley Reservoir and into the South Hills back country. High-clearance or four-wheel-drive is strongly recommended; the road is impassable when wet. From the parking area at the bottom of the small valley, a 1.5-mile round-trip hike on steep, sandy terrain leads up to the formations themselves. Once you are there, the experience is exceptional. White cone-shaped formations rise from the valley floor against a backdrop of sagebrush and South Hills granite. The air is dry and silent. There are no signs, no other visitors most days, no cell signal, no services. Bring water (extra), sun protection, sturdy shoes, and patience for both the drive and the hike. The formations themselves are fragile — solid stone but easily marked or chipped. Don't climb directly on the cones, which can break or crumble. Watch for rattlesnakes in summer and the occasional coyote.
Photos
Address: Teepee Rocks, Trapper Creek Rd, south of Oakley, ID 83346 (gravel back roads through the South Hills, ~45–50 minutes south of Oakley), Oakley, Idaho
Category: adventure