There are two wayside rest stops along I-15 south of Idaho Falls that have short walkways and trails through lava beds, in addition to the usual restroom facilities. They are interesting, and make a nice break from driving. There are even picnic tables available. Info boards are dispersed along the trail. I visited the southbound side. The shorter trail is paved. If this sort of thing fascinates you, then be sure to visit Craters of the Moon National Monument, nearby along highway 26.

My mom and I drove in 20 mins the wrong direction before giving up and stumbling on to the site. We just so happen to be traveling to Idaho State in Pocatello after leaving Idaho Falls on I-15. The W Arco Hwy address, leads travelers 15 mins west from downtown Idaho Falls instead of 30 mins south on I-15 and should be changed. As other reviews said, this trail is off the Blackfoot Rest stop at Mile Marker 101. There isn’t a proper sign. The rest stop signage says Geological Site and it only gives you a mile notice. On your right hand side, you’ll be seeing the lava rock and pahoehoe and wonder if you’re getting close. You are! The stop was worth it. It was clean and you have to walk a bit off to the right to even discover the signage for Hell’s Half Acre. The educational signs along the way broke up the walk in a nice way. There is no SHADE covering so if it’s a hot one, bring light clothes, water, ice or an umbrella. We enjoyed it and so glad we found it!

A unique stop on highway 20. From the parking area, there is a 0.9 mile loop hike or a 20 mile out and back hike. These are very technically challenging hikes on the broken lava rock. But even if you are not up for one of the hikes, it is a really interesting land formation to explore.

This place is amazing! Yes, it is located at the rest area, but there are two paved trails - 1/4 and 1/2 mile - with informative signs about the geology and plant and animals. Seriously, I am not able to visit Craters of the Moon because I have a dog, but this is a very condensed version. Go on the trail. I went to the trails at the southbound rest are on I-15. There is also an area on the northbound side. Someone mentioned that there are rattlesnakes. I am sure there are, but you stay on the trail as the signs say!

This has to be one of the best hidden gems at a rest stop. Once on the trail the landscape becomes something resembling an alien planet. The lava formations are fascinating to look at.