Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument near Flagstaff, Arizona, preserves a dramatic volcanic landscape created by eruptions around 1085 CE. Visitors can explore lava flows, cinder fields, ponderosa pine forest and views of the San Francisco Peaks along several designated hiking trails while learning how the eruption transformed the landscape and affected the people who lived here nearly 1,000 years ago.
- How Sunset Crater Formed
- About Sunset Crater
- Hiking Trails
- Visitor Center
- Directions & Hours
- Sunset Crater Map
- FAQ
How Sunset Crater Volcano Formed
Around 1085 CE, a series of eruptions transformed the landscape northeast of present-day Flagstaff. Earthquakes, lava fountains, falling cinders and lava flows accompanied the eruption, burying portions of the surrounding terrain and affecting the people who lived in the region. When the eruptions ended, Sunset Crater Volcano and its surrounding lava and cinder fields remained as dramatic evidence of the volcanic forces that shaped northern Arizona.
Sunset Crater is the youngest volcano in the San Francisco Volcanic Field. Today the national monument protects the cinder cone, lava flows and approximately 3,040 acres of volcanic landscape while preserving important natural and cultural resources associated with the area.
Visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument lies northeast of Flagstaff within the San Francisco Volcanic Field and protects approximately 3,040 acres of cinder-covered terrain, lava flows and recovering forest. The contrasting black lava, reddish cinders, ponderosa pines and seasonal wildflowers create one of northern Arizona’s most distinctive landscapes.
Visitors can explore the volcanic environment from designated trails and viewpoints while learning about the geology, ecology and cultural history of the region. Sunset Crater Volcano is also closely connected with nearby Wupatki National Monument, making the two monuments a natural combination for a northern Arizona day trip.
Hiking Trails At Sunset Crater Volcano
Lava Flow Trail
The Lava Flow Trail is a 1-mile loop at the base of Sunset Crater Volcano that leads through the Bonito Lava Flow and past a variety of volcanic features. The National Park Service rates the trail as easy and recommends allowing about one hour. The accessible upper 0.25-mile loop has a paved concrete surface suitable for wheelchairs, walkers and strollers.
Visitors may hike only on designated trails. The volcanic landscape is fragile, and loose cinders and sharp, unstable lava can also present hazards when leaving established routes.
Other Sunset Crater Hiking Trails
- Bonito Vista Trail: An easy, accessible 0.3-mile round-trip paved trail with views across the Bonito Lava Flow and surrounding volcanic landscape.
- Lenox Crater Trail: A moderately strenuous 1.6-mile round-trip hike through ponderosa pine forest with views of Sunset Crater, the lava flow and San Francisco Peaks.
- A’a Trail: A short 0.25-mile round-trip walk featuring jagged basaltic a’a lava created as the Bonito Lava Flow cooled.
- Lava’s Edge Trail: A moderate 3.4-mile round-trip trail following the edge of the Bonito Lava Flow through ponderosa pine and rough volcanic terrain.
Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center
The Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center is a good first stop for maps, current conditions and orientation to the monument. Facilities include a museum, park film, park store, restrooms and visitor information. Rangers are generally available to answer questions, and Junior Ranger activities are available for younger visitors.
Because operating hours and weather-related closures can change, check the National Park Service website for current visitor center hours and alerts before your trip.
Directions & Hours
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona. From U.S. Highway 89, turn east onto Sunset Crater-Wupatki Loop Road between mile markers 430 and 431, then continue about 2 miles to the visitor center.
The monument, scenic road and trails are generally open 24 hours a day, although snow, fire conditions or severe weather can cause temporary closures. The visitor center is normally open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with holiday and weather-related exceptions. Check current National Park Service alerts and operating hours before traveling.
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument Map
Sunset Crater Visitor Tips
- Stay on designated trails to protect fragile volcanic and archaeological resources.
- Wear sturdy footwear because volcanic cinders and lava surfaces can be loose, rough and sharp.
- Bring water and sun protection even during cooler seasons.
- Prepare for rapidly changing weather at elevations above 7,000 feet.
- Check current National Park Service alerts for snow, fire restrictions, road work or temporary closures before traveling.
- Allow additional time to continue along the scenic loop toward nearby Wupatki National Monument.
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument FAQ
Where is Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument?
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona, within the San Francisco Volcanic Field. The visitor center is reached from U.S. Highway 89 by taking Sunset Crater-Wupatki Loop Road.
When did Sunset Crater Volcano erupt?
The eruption that formed Sunset Crater Volcano occurred around 1085 CE. The eruption produced extensive cinder deposits and lava flows and dramatically changed the surrounding landscape.
Can you hike to the top of Sunset Crater Volcano?
No. Visitors must remain on designated trails to protect the fragile volcanic landscape and cultural resources. Several trails provide excellent views of Sunset Crater and its surrounding lava flows without climbing the cinder cone.
What is the most popular trail at Sunset Crater?
The Lava Flow Trail is one of the monument’s best-known hikes. It is a 1-mile loop through volcanic terrain at the base of Sunset Crater, with an accessible paved 0.25-mile upper loop.
How long should I allow for Sunset Crater Volcano?
A short visit can include the visitor center, viewpoints and Lava Flow Trail, while visitors who want to hike additional trails or continue to Wupatki National Monument should allow several hours.
Is Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument open year-round?
Yes. The monument, scenic road and trails are generally open throughout the year and are normally accessible 24 hours a day, although snow, fire conditions or severe weather can occasionally cause closures. Visitor center hours are more limited.
Is Sunset Crater Volcano near Wupatki National Monument?
Yes. Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki National Monument are connected by the Sunset Crater-Wupatki Loop Road, making them convenient to visit together.
What should I bring when visiting Sunset Crater?
Bring water, sun protection, sturdy walking shoes and clothing appropriate for changing high-elevation weather. Check current road, weather and park conditions before leaving Flagstaff.
More Information & Related Attractions
- Official Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
- Wupatki National Monument
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- San Francisco Peaks
- Flagstaff Arizona
Where To Stay Near Sunset Crater
Flagstaff is the most convenient base for visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, with a wide selection of hotels, restaurants and other traveler services. Visitors looking for smaller accommodations can also explore Flagstaff bed and breakfasts.
