Shoshone Field Office

Black Magic Canyon

During the last 10,000 years, the Big Wood River has carved a narrow canyon of exquisite, swirling rock sculptures into the surrounding black basalt. The four-mile section of complex carvings and potholes is one of the best and most beautiful examples of eroded river bedrock in the United States.

Location: About 14 miles north of Shoshone on Highway 75. Secondary paved and graved roads provide access to the river canyon. The formations are best accessed during summer months when the river flow is diverted for irrigation. Contact the Shoshone field office for more information on visiting Black Magic Canyon. Download Regional Map (2.6 MB PDF)

Facilities/Fees: None


Polished Basalt in Black Magic Canyon. Photography: Peter Oberlindacher, BLM


Click on map for enlarged view


 

Shoshone Field Office | 400 West F Street | Shoshone, ID 83352
208-732-7200 | Fax: 208-732-7317 | Office hours: 7:45am - 4:30pm, M-F