Black Magic Canyon is a unique geological formation located in southern Idaho. This stunning canyon is known for its mysterious and enchanting beauty, which is why it has been given the name "Black Magic." The canyon is located near the town of Shoshone in Lincoln County and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It is easily accessible by car and offers visitors the chance to explore its intriguing rock formations. These tall, narrow cliffs are made up of layered volcanic rock, which has been eroded by wind and water over millions of years. As visitors enter the canyon, they are immediately struck by its dark, almost black appearance.
Follow along on our adventure then go out on your own!
During the summer months, the Big Wood is diverted into the Magic Reservoir, drying out the riverbed and turning the canyon into the curious explorer s paradise. I say canyon because it isn t a canyon in the traditional sense, it is more of a large trench with varying depths that range from 10 feet to about 50 feet deep.
As visitors enter the canyon, they are immediately struck by its dark, almost black appearance. The dark color is due to the abundance of iron oxide minerals in the rocks, giving the canyon its unique name. The contrasting colors, with the black rocks against the vibrant blue sky, create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere that adds to the allure of this natural wonder.
What’s Hidden In This Idaho Canyon Is Unexpected But Awesome
Super-rad musician, scholar, photographer, and travel writer. The PNW and Mountain West = home, but can be found wherever there's adventure.
Idaho is full of extraordinary wonders, unearthly volcanic formations, and breathtaking features carved by the incredible power of ancient floods and lava flows. But of all the treasured and unique places our state has to offer, there is one extraordinary, secret world tucked away in the desert that very few non-locals know about… and it only reveals itself at certain times during the year.
Unlike our renowned Hells Canyon, Black Magic Canyon isn’t a name you’ll hear often in tourist circles, but this black basalt volcanic trail is beyond epic to say the least, and completely unexpected. On your next road trip through Southeast Idaho, be sure to check out Idaho’s own secret canyon – a rugged, otherworldly Atlantis right here in the Gem State!
From the surface, this small slice of Idaho doesn't look like much. But descend down into it…And you'll find an eerie, three-mile work of volcanic art that can only be described as absolutely spectacular.
Advertisement AdvertisementInformally known as the Black Magic Canyon, this deep riverbed in Southern Idaho houses a mesmerizing natural sculpture garden -- the only known one of its kind in the world.
Here, the Big Wood River cuts through 800,000-year-old basalt, plunging more than 50 feet and exposing multiple lava flow strata.
But the prehistoric river wasn't originally here. Volcanic eruptions from every direction displaced the old river into its new route.
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In those thousands of years, the powerful current of the Big Wood River slowly but artistically chiseled away at the volcanic canyon, boring holes and rounding the edges of the ebony stone into a stunning spectacle.
It's a wonderland like nowhere else on earth, and a photographer's dream.Hundreds of natural, abstract sculptures pique the curiosity and imagination of every visitor who descends into the basalt channel.
Advertisement This marvelous canyon is also full of natural tunnels. And unique, otherworldly formations.During the summer months, the Big Wood is diverted into the Magic Reservoir, drying out the riverbed and turning the canyon into the curious explorer's paradise.
But hiking this channel is not for the faint of heart.Winding, twisting walls and impossibly sized scramble boulders all create a life-sized obstacle course that requires sure footing and determination.
Before you attempt to explore Black Magic Canyon, be sure to call the Big Wood Canal Co. ahead and ask about water release dates. Being caught in this canyon during an unplanned dam release could be deadly. Take caution!
Be sure to add this (literal) hidden gem hike to your summer bucket list, and make some time to capture a few awesome photos of the rock sculptures while you’re there. But this Idaho treasure is pristine in all its natural glory… so explore responsibly! For directions to Black Magic Canyon, check out this BLM map.
For more incredible Idaho adventures and hikes, check out this scenic trail in Wallace or this fascinating historic road trip.
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Here, the Big Wood River cuts through 800,000-year-old basalt, plunging more than 50 feet and exposing multiple lava flow strata.
Walking through the canyon is like entering a different world. The towering walls seem to close in on visitors, creating a sense of mystery and wonder. Along the way, there are plenty of photo opportunities as the sunlight filters through narrow gaps in the rocks, creating beautiful patterns and shadows. One of the highlights of Black Magic Canyon is the fascinating rock formations that can be found throughout the area. These formations have been shaped by the forces of nature, resulting in intricate and sometimes bizarre shapes. Visitors can spend hours exploring the various formations, from mushroom-like rocks to towering spires. Black Magic Canyon is also known for its petroglyphs, ancient rock carvings made by Native Americans. These carvings provide a glimpse into the past and are of great cultural significance. Visitors can spot these carvings on the walls of the canyon, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone looking for a unique and captivating experience, Black Magic Canyon is definitely worth a visit. This hidden gem in southern Idaho offers a chance to step into a world of mystery and enchantment, where nature's forces have created a breathtaking and awe-inspiring landscape..
Reviews for "Witnessing the Otherworldly Charm of Black Magic Canyon in Idaho"
1. John - 2 stars - I recently visited Black Magic Canyon in Idaho and I have to say, it was a complete disappointment. The name itself holds a lot of promise and intrigue, but there is nothing magical about this place. The canyon is overcrowded with tourists and the natural formations are underwhelming. The signage is also very limited, making it difficult to navigate and understand the significance of different parts of the canyon. I wouldn't recommend wasting your time visiting this overhyped attraction.
2. Sarah - 1 star - I had high expectations for Black Magic Canyon in Idaho, but I was sorely disappointed. The canyon was incredibly dirty and poorly maintained. There was trash everywhere, graffiti on the rocks, and even broken glass scattered around. It completely ruined the natural beauty of the place. Additionally, there were no clear walking paths or designated trails, so it was difficult to explore without stepping on delicate vegetation or risking getting lost. Overall, the lack of cleanliness and organization made for a very unpleasant experience.
3. Alex - 2 stars - I was really looking forward to visiting Black Magic Canyon in Idaho, but it just didn't live up to the hype. The rock formations were interesting, but they weren't as impressive as I had imagined. The canyon itself is quite small and there isn't much variety in the formations, so it gets repetitive after a while. The lack of amenities such as restrooms or shaded areas made the visit even more uncomfortable. I would recommend visiting other natural attractions in Idaho instead, as there are definitely better options out there.