Problem

The Craters of the Moon National Monument faced significant accessibility and infrastructure challenges, impacting the visitor experience. The North Crater Flow Trail’s narrow, steep, and uneven asphalt surface posed difficulties for individuals with mobility challenges.

 The Lava Campground, built in the 1950s, also needed modern updates to meet contemporary visitor expectations and improve accessibility.

• • The North Crater Flow Trail had an asphalt surface that was narrow, steep, and had an excessive cross slope.
  • These conditions made the trail difficult to navigate, especially for individuals with mobility challenges.
  • The Lava Campground, constructed in the 1950s, required updates to meet modern visitor needs and improve accessibility.

Solution

HECO Engineers civil engineers implemented targeted solutions to enhance accessibility and modernize facilities at the monument. For the North Crater Flow Trail, they replaced the asphalt with stained concrete, corrected gradients, and added features like passing areas and wildlife crossings. 

The Lava Campground saw improvements such as widened roadways, asphalted parking areas, and additional accessible campsites.

 Trail Improvement:

• • Removed the rough asphalt surface and replaced it with stained concrete.
  • Ensured a clear width of 3 feet plus curbs on both sides.
  • Corrected gradients and cross slopes for better accessibility.
  • Incorporated passing areas at resting bench locations.
  • Included pika crossings with bottomless culverts for local wildlife.

Campground Rehabilitation:

• • Widened and repaved the roadway and improved turning radii.
  • Surfaced campsite parking areas with asphalt.
  • Designated additional accessible campsites with routes to comfort stations, pay stations, and hydrants.
  • Added pull-thru and large vehicle sites to accommodate diverse camping preferences.

Results

The comprehensive improvements by HECO Engineers significantly enhanced the visitor experience at the Craters of the Moon National Monument. The upgraded trail and campground facilities provided better accessibility, safety, and modern conveniences, increasing visitor satisfaction and reducing maintenance needs.

• • Enhanced accessibility and safety on the North Crater Flow Trail.
  • Modernized campground facilities to meet current visitor expectations.
  • Improved visitor experience through better infrastructure and accessibility features.
  • Reduced maintenance needs and dust dispersal in the campground area.

Enhancing Visitor Experience at Craters of the Moon

HECO Engineers’ work at the Craters of the Moon National Monument resulted in substantial improvements to both the North Crater Flow Trail and Lava Campground. By addressing accessibility challenges and modernizing facilities, HECO Engineers significantly enhanced the visitor experience.

If you have a similar project, contact HECO Engineers today.