Hiking Hotspot: North Menan Butte in Rexburg, Idaho

Ever since we moved out West, Mike and I noticed many mountains have letters on the side for the town name which is pretty cool. The North Menan Butte Trail in Rexburg is referred to as “R” Mountain by locals because of the large R painted on the side of the mountain. This short, yet scenic hike is located just a short drive from both Idaho Falls and Rexburg. It’s a steep, but shore hike which I recommend for both locals and tourists up for a moderate challenge.

Mike and I finally decided to check it out one day after driving by so many times. After our first hike, we continued to come back at least once or twice a month during the spring and summer season.

North and South Menan Butte are 2 of the world’s largest volcano tuff cones. Basically, there are volcanoes formed 10,000+ years ago from basaltic magma that boiled up from the ground water. These buttes stand as the site of the sole freshwater volcano eruptions in the US, thus leading to its’ classification as a National Natural Landmark. Learn more about the history of the trail.

If you are seeking something different and exciting to do, it is quite an unusual experience to walk around an ancient volcano. I imagine history buffs would be even more impressed with this hike. This is a great heart pumping hike and much harder than I expected.

A Hard Climb that Rewards with Terrific Views

The climb uphill is pretty steep but the views are pretty fabulous at the top. If you like desert vistas (which I find so peaceful and barren at the same time), you should appreciate the view.

Getting down the mountain is lot harder than going up in my opinion. The climb down is very steep. Luckily there are a few railings to help guide you down. There are not a lot of signs on the way down, so you have a few options on which direction to take. Either way, I prefer the climb up as I am always nervous trying to hike down a mountain with the loose gravel. I feel like I have no control and I could slip at anytime. I recommend taking your time, wearing hiking shoes, and using the railings when available.

How long is the hike?

The trail length is about 3 miles round trip. In addition, there is a loop around the top that you can walk around and explore or just relax and take in the views. Most importantly, I enjoy the desolateness of this hike. It’s rare to see anyone else on the trail – we have never seen more than a handful of people at most. Honestly, this is what I love most about desert hiking – the opportunity to escape it all for a while. As someone who is on the computer a lot, I appreciate my limited time in nature even more. With all our modern congestion, hiking a peaceful nature trail is a real treat.

Overall, this is one of my top recommended trails near Idaho Falls. I love the isolated nature and desert scenery. The fabulous leg workout means you can skip the gym! I felt like I got in an amazing workout, both going up and down the hill which works on different groups of muscles. I would much rather take in the natural beauty of Southern Idaho rather than stare at a treadmill screen!

Tips for a great hike

Be aware that this is a desert hike with no shade, a few sandy areas to walk through, and no water at the start. I recommend bring with at least a bottle of water. Also be on the lookout for rattlesnakes, which are common in the area. Fortunately, we have never seen any while hiking (and I am not sure what I would do if I did come across one).

Directions to the trailhead

We had a hard time finding a direct address for this trailhead. You will want to take a left on N 3600 E/Twin Butte Road and follow for 3 miles until you see the trailhead parking lot. Check out this park map for directions from both Idaho Falls and Rexburg.