Welcome to the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument trail hike, where nature and geology come together to create a stunning and otherworldly landscape. Located in northern Arizona, near Flagstaff, this unique monument is named after the Sunset Crater, a volcanic cone that dominates the area. But Sunset Crater is not just a pretty face—its formation and geological significance make it a truly fascinating place to explore.
So, let’s explore the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument trail hike.
What is the Sunset Crater National Monument and Trail?
Sunset Crater is a cinder-cone-type extinct volcano located north of Flagstaff adjacent to the Wupatki National Monument of AZ Highway 98A. It is the youngest in a string of volcanoes related to the nearby San Francisco Peaks. It has an elevation of 8042 feet. There are several trails that traverse the grounds and allows you to see and explore the area.
History of Sunset Crater?
A thousand years ago, around the year 1085 CE, the ground shook with earthquakes for days or weeks before the volcanic eruption began. The ground split open along a great fissure nearly 6 miles (11 km) long, and lava erupted out of it to heights of 850 feet or more.
The eruption spewed out molten lava and ash, which blanketed the surrounding area and created a beautiful, yet eerie, landscape. The lava flows stretched for miles, freezing in time and leaving us with a mesmerizing sight to behold.
But it’s not all about the cone-shaped crater—Sunset Crater National Monument showcases a variety of unique geological features. From lava fields and cinder cones to lava tubes and spatter cones, the monument is a geologist’s dream come true. So, it’s like Mother Nature decided to have a little party and left behind all these incredible formations for us to admire.
The eruption that occurred at Sunset Crater in 1085 would have been quite familiar to Native Hawaiians. It was a “curtain of fire” type of eruption that is relatively common among Hawaiian volcanoes,
The eruption and formation of Sunset Crater Volcano incinerated the surrounding landscape, covering almost 900 square miles with lava and ash. The volcano has several names given to it by Indigenous people, including Palatsmo (Red Hill, Hopi), Ha Gudni Káá (Where It Burned, Dilzhe’e Apache), and Dził Bilátah Łitsoí (Yellow-Tipped Mountain, Diné).
Flora and Fauna in Sunset Crater National Monument
For decades after the eruption, little to nothing grew on the lava flows. In northern Arizona’s dry, cold climates, rock weathers slowly, and soil formation occurs over many centuries.
Despite its harsh environment, Sunset Crater National Monument is surprisingly home to a diverse range of plant species. Ponderosa pines, Douglas firs, and aspen trees dot the landscape, providing shade and a haven for birds and small critters. The vibrant wildflowers that bloom in spring add a splash of color to this volcanic wonderland.
As for wildlife, you might be thinking, “What kind of animal would willingly live in a place called Sunset Crater?” Well, you’d be surprised! Mule deer, elk, and even black bears call this place home. If you’re lucky, you might spot them roaming around, enjoying the unique beauty of this volcanic ecosystem.
The Naming of the National Monument
The English name Sunset Volcano was given to the cinder cone by John Wesley Powell in 1885. He wrote: “The contrast in the colors is so great that on viewing the mountain from a distance the red cinders seem to be on fire.”
In 1930 President Hoover established Sunset Crater National Monument and the National Park Service took on responsibility for the geologic and human history of the site. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) assisted in construction of some roads and visitor facilities during the 1930s, and others were constructed during the Mission 66 years.
How to Get to the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument?
From Flagstaff: Take U.S. 89 north for 12 miles / 19km, then turn right on the Sunset Crater-Wupatki Loop road and continue 2 miles / 3km to the visitor center. Drive time from Flagstaff to Sunset Crater Volcano is about 30 minutes. Therefore, it’s such a short drive out of Flagstaff, there’s no excuse for not going!
Scenic Loop Drive: Sunset Crater Volcano is located along a 35-mile scenic loop road that takes you from the ponderosa pine forests surrounding Sunset Crater, through juniper grasslands and views of the Painted Desert, to the open red rock landscape of the Wupatki Basin and Wupatki National Monument. Drive time along the Loop Road is about 1 hour.
As mentioned earlier, plan to explore the Wupatki and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monuments together as they are very close.
What to Expect on the Trails?
There are several trails from .25 mile to 3.4 miles averaging 15 minutes to 2.5 hours. Unfortunately, the 2 trails leading to the Crater were closed due to fire when we visited the site. You can see up close the lava flows throughout the trails.
It appears a grass fire had somewhat recently moved through this territory. We could see the damage caused by the fire as we drove up to the site from the Wupatki National Monument which is the adjacent historical national monument. Thus, don’t be confused with fire burn versus volcanic landscape.
There is no entrance fee to explore the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument so worth the visit.
Trails
Trail Details
Lava Flow Trail
Accessible for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers! Explore the Lava Flow Trail and see numerous volcanic features while walking at the base of Sunset Crater Volcano. Pets are welcome on the paved portion of this trail. There is a pet station with waste bags at the trailhead.
- Distance: 1 mi (1.6 km) loop
- Time: 1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy. The accessible upper 0.25 mi (0.5 km) loop has a paved, concrete surface.
Bonito Vista Trail
Accessible for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers! Walk across a field of cinders on this paved trail for an expansive view of the Bonito Lava Flow and surrounding volcanoes.
- Distance: 0.3 mi (0.5 km) round-trip
- Time: 20 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy, Accessible
Lenox Crater Trail CLOSED DUE TO FIRE DAMAGE
Lenox Trail is a walk in a ponderosa pine forest while viewing Sunset Crater Volcano, the Bonito Lava Flow, O’Leary Peak, and from the summit, sweeping views of the San Francisco Peaks.
- Distance: 1.6 mi (2.6 km) round-trip
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
A’a Trail
Observe jagged blocks of rough, basaltic a’a lava, formed as the Bonito Lava Flow cooled.
- Distance: 0.25 mi (0.3 km) round-trip
- Time: 15 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Lava’s Edge Trail
Walk under ponderosa pines, over loose cinders and rough basalt along the jagged edge of the Bonito Lava Flow.
Note: Pets are allowed on the U.S. Forest Service section of this trail only, 2 mi (3.2 km) round-trip. Ask rangers at the visitor center for details.
- Distance: 3.4 mi (5.5 km) round-trip
- Time: 2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Bonito Vista Trail Pictures
Erin and I walked the short hike on the fully-paved Bonito Vista Trail which brings you on a 0.3-mile round trip trail over a volcanic field with lava flows near the base of the Sunset Crater Volcano. The paved path is an easy hike that enables visitors in wheelchairs.
Cinder Hills Overlook
The Cinder Hills Overlook is a cul-de-sac parking lot at the top of a small hill on the eastern edge of Sunset Crater National Monument. It’s worth the stop and get some pictures of the Sunset Crater and other volcanic mountains nearby.
Camping and Picnic Facilities
If you’re looking to extend your stay at Sunset Crater National Monument, you’re in luck! The Bonito Campground offers a picturesque setting for overnight camping. With forty-four campsites equipped with picnic tables and grills, you can enjoy a night under the stars while relishing the sounds of nature.
For those who prefer a day trip, there are also several picnic areas scattered throughout the monument. Take a break from exploring and enjoy a scenic lunch surrounded by the stunning volcanic landscape.
Conclusion
Sunset Crater National Monument is a true gem in the American Southwest. From its awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes to its rich cultural and geological history, there’s something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.
Explore the trails, learn about the area’s rich history, and take in the breathtaking views which are all part of the adventure that awaits visitors. Sunset Crater National Monument truly showcases the resilience of nature and the enduring connection between humans and their environment.
The Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument trail hike, combined with a stop at the nearby Wupatki National Monument, is well worth the visit. Both National Monuments are right next to each other so that works out well from a timing standpoint.
Nearby Attractions
Also consider the Walnut Canyon National Monument which is a bit closer to Flagstaff. North of the north Wupatki exit onto Hwy-89, as you get closer to Cameron, you will drive by the Anasazi Inn at Gray Mountain which has graffiti and murals put in place as part of the Paint the Desert Project. Stop here and check out the beautiful murals on the buildings. In Cameron, you will also pass the historical Cameron Suspension Bridge built in 1911.
If you like this content, I know you will really enjoy the Wupatki National Monument video, the Walnut Canyon National Monument, the Anasazi Inn at Gray Mountain, and all the other Epic Arizona Trip videos to help you plan your next Epic trip with your significant others. Put a comment down below if you have any experiences at the Sunset Crater National Monument.
FAQ
1. Can I hike to the top of Sunset Crater?
No, hiking to the summit of Sunset Crater is not permitted to preserve the fragile volcanic landscape. However, several designated trails in the area offer stunning views of the crater and surrounding scenery.
2. Are pets allowed in Sunset Crater National Monument?
Pets are welcome in designated areas of the monument but must be kept on a leash at all times. It is important to follow pet regulations to ensure the safety of both the animals and the delicate ecosystem.
3. Can I camp or picnic at Sunset Crater National Monument?
Yes, there are camping and picnic facilities available within the monument. Bonito Campground offers tent and RV camping options, while picnic areas provide a scenic spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. It is advisable to check for availability and make reservations in advance, particularly during peak visitation periods.
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