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Meteor Crater: Arizona's Cosmic Scar

Explore the awe-inspiring Meteor Crater in Arizona, the best-preserved meteorite impact site on Earth, and discover its fascinating космический history.

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Meteor Crater, also known as Barringer Crater, is a remarkably well-preserved meteorite impact site in northern Arizona. Formed approximately 50,000 years ago, the crater offers visitors a glimpse into the power of cosmic collisions and the opportunity to explore interactive exhibits at the Barringer Space Museum.

A brief summary to Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the rim trails, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is limited shade and the Arizona sun can be intense.
  • Check the visitor center hours in advance, as they vary seasonally.
  • Consider booking tickets online to save time and potentially a small amount on the entrance fee.
  • Take advantage of the guided rim tours for in-depth information about the crater's formation and history.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Meteor Crater is located just off Interstate 40, about 37 miles east of Flagstaff and 18 miles west of Winslow. Take Exit 233 and follow the signs to the crater. There is ample free parking available at the visitor center. From Flagstaff, the drive takes approximately 45 minutes. Winslow is closer, with a drive of about 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Meteor Crater, you can take the Amtrak train from Flagstaff to Winslow. From the Winslow Amtrak station, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare to the crater, which is about 18 miles away. The taxi fare from Winslow to Meteor Crater will likely cost between $60-$80. The train ride is approximately 1 hour, and the taxi ride is about 20 minutes.

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Discover more about Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Meteor Crater, a striking testament to the power of celestial impacts, lies in the Arizona desert, a short drive from both Flagstaff and Winslow. This immense crater, nearly a mile wide and over 500 feet deep, was created roughly 50,000 years ago when a nickel-iron meteorite slammed into the Earth at tremendous speed. The force of the impact was equivalent to 10 megatons of TNT, displacing millions of tons of rock and creating the landscape seen today. Unlike many other impact craters that have been eroded over millennia, Meteor Crater remains remarkably well-preserved due to the arid climate of Arizona. Visitors can explore the rim of the crater, taking in panoramic views and learning about the science behind the impact. The on-site Barringer Space Museum features interactive exhibits detailing the crater's formation, the meteorite itself, and the crater's significance in space research. Notably, the crater was used as a training ground for Apollo astronauts, preparing them for the lunar surface. The Meteor Crater Visitor Center offers an array of amenities, including an 80-seat widescreen theater showing the film "Impact! The Mystery of Meteor Crater," indoor crater viewing areas, and access to the Crater Trail. Visitors can also experience the "Collision!" 4D Experience Room, browse the gift and mineral shop, and enjoy a meal at the Blasted Bistro. Guided rim tours provide additional insights into the crater's history, geology, and impact science.

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