Lunar Crater Volcanic Loop
NASA's lunar training ground in Nevada's volcanic badlands
The Lunar Crater Volcanic Loop explores Nevada’s youngest volcanic field, where NASA once trained Apollo astronauts for moon landings in landscapes so alien they fooled scientists into thinking they were extraterrestrial. This 35-mile circuit winds through the Reveille Range’s black lava flows, passing the massive Lunar Crater maar and dozens of red cinder cones that erupted just 38,000 years ago. The route connects multiple lava tube systems, including the quarter-mile-long Lunar Crater Lava Tube, accessible via a short hike from the main track.
Moderate difficulty with sandy volcanic ash sections requiring momentum and careful tire placement. High-clearance 4WD essential for the rougher lava rock sections near the crater rim. Carry plenty of water and watch for sudden weather changes — this high desert sits at 6,000 feet elevation. The best time is spring or fall when temperatures are manageable. You’ll drive through genuine lunar training grounds where Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong prepared for their historic mission, making this as much space history as geological exploration.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 35 mi / 56.3 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6200 ft |
| Best season | April-May, September-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Alamo, Nevada |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle this trail without a lift?
Yes, a stock high-clearance 4WD is the stated minimum and will get you through. The surface is mixed volcanic rock and dirt two-track — nothing requires a lift, but low-range and decent all-terrain tires are non-negotiable on the rougher lava field sections.
Is this trail accessible in summer?
Technically passable, but the Nevada desert heat in June through August regularly pushes 100°F+ out here with zero shade. April–May and September–October are the windows locals actually use — anything outside that and you're gambling with your cooling system and your comfort.
Do I need a permit to run this loop or camp out here?
No permit required — it's BLM land and dispersed camping is legal and free. Standard Leave No Trace rules apply, and stay aware of the proximity to the Nevada Test Site boundary; don't wander into restricted areas.
What's the hardest section of the loop and what should I actually expect?
The roughest stretches are through the lava field approaches near the crater itself — sharp volcanic rock chews tires and the two-track gets loose and uneven. It's not a white-knuckle moment, but one wrong line can mean a sidewall puncture, so run a slower pace and keep eyes on the terrain, not the scenery.
How far is the nearest gas station and is there any water on the trail?
Alamo, Nevada is your last fuel stop — roughly 50+ miles from the trailhead, so top off before you leave town. There is zero water on this loop; carry a minimum of 1 gallon per person per day plus extra for the radiator, and don't count on finding any out there.
Trail track
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