State Parks and National Parks

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Scientists believe this area's last active volcanic eruption took place at Sunset Crater about 940 years ago. At the cinder cone's base, a lava flow frozen in time stands in mute testimony to nature's immense power. The one-mile Lava Flow Trail offers a first-hand look. A portion of the trail is paved for wheelchair access.

The area was farmed by several prehistoric groups who converged here and shared their cultures for over 100 years. Near the Wupatki National Monument are many ancestral Pueblo dwellings.

Today, the Wupatki dwellings and the volcano are both national monuments and are connected by a paved loop road.

Hiking and climbing on Sunset Crater are prohibited. Backcountry camping and hiking, except in ranger-led programs, are prohibited.

However, hiking opportunities abound in the national forest lands surrounding the monuments. Coconino National Forest operates a small campground near the Sunset Crater Volcano visitor center from late spring to early fall.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of National Park Service. Courtesy of National Park Service. Courtesy of Flagstaff Convention and Visitors Bureau.