Idaho’s landscapes can be described in many different ways, from rich and rugged to stark and vast. However, you’ll never, ever hear our beautiful Idaho described as “boring”. That’s because the Gem State is always surprising us with its bizarre and unique natural wonders. The incredible lava rock sculptures in Southern Idaho’s Black Magic Canyon is just one of those destinations in our state that looks like it could belong on a different planet. The twisting and winding rock formations will leave you in awe of their otherworldly beauty, so make it your goal to see this place for yourself on your next Idaho adventure!
Hiding near the small town of Shoshone is a weird natural wonder that may have you questioning what planet you’re on. Black Magic Canyon is just as enchanting as it sounds and it’s a sight you’ll simply have to see to believe.
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Getting to Black Magic Canyon can be a cumbersome experience. Many Idahoans don’t even realize this bizarre canyon exists because it’s so tucked away. Also, it’s only hike-able for approximately half the year since Big Wood Canal Company often diverts water through the canyon starting in March and going through September.
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Because of this, all hikers must verify the canyon isn’t submerged in water and to confirm they won’t be diverting water through the canyon that day. Refusal to do so could result in a dangerous confrontation with a flash flood, so be safe and make the call.
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Once you’ve gone through the appropriate measures, you can then make your way to Black Magic Canyon. It’s located off of Highway 75 just north of Shoshone. The hiking area can be found off of Magic Road. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to reach the trailhead.
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Once you’ve gotten to the trailhead, you can start hiking down to the canyon. This area is pretty remote and there aren’t any signs or markers to lead the way. However, you should be able to spot a route down to the creek where you’ll first spot the wacky basalt landscape inside of the canyon.
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The canyon is truly unlike anything you’ve seen before. Carved by the Big Wood River over the last 10,000 years, it is filled top to bottom with 800,000-year-old basalt lava flows. The sight is similar to that of Utah’s famous slot canyons, only with stark black rock instead of sandstone.
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The jagged yet smooth basalt rock is an incredible contrast to the surrounding high desert scenery, and we just can’t get enough of it. Make seeing Black Magic Canyon a priority because this is a landscape you won’t soon forget.
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Our beautiful Idaho is always surprising us with its vast and varied landscapes! For more incredible destinations like this one, check out our list of The 7 Greatest Natural Wonders In Idaho.
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Address: Black Magic Canyon of Big Wood River, State Hwy 75, Shoshone, ID 83352, USA
