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Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: A Volcanic Landscape

Discover Arizona's volcanic past at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: a landscape shaped by fire and time.

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Explore the fascinating landscape shaped by the eruption of Sunset Crater Volcano around 1085 AD. Witness cinder cones, lava flows, and learn about the area's geological history and the impact on the early inhabitants.

A brief summary to Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain when hiking the trails.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as the area can be hot and exposed, especially during the summer months.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Wupatki National Monument via the scenic loop road.
  • Check the visitor center's hours and program schedule for ranger-led tours and events.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Flagstaff, take US-89 north for approximately 12 miles. Turn right onto the Sunset Crater-Wupatki Loop Road (FR 545) between mile markers 430 and 431. Continue for 2 miles to reach the visitor center. Entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, which covers access to both Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki National Monuments for 1-7 days. Parking is available near the visitor center and trails.

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Discover more about Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument offers a unique glimpse into a landscape dramatically reshaped by volcanic activity. Around 1085 AD, Sunset Crater erupted, blanketing the surrounding area in cinders and lava. This eruption significantly impacted the lives of the Sinagua people who inhabited the region, leading to both displacement and, eventually, new opportunities for agriculture due to the ash deposits. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this eruption through several short trails that wind through the volcanic landscape. Although hiking to the summit of Sunset Crater is prohibited to protect its fragile environment, the trails at its base provide stunning views of the cinder cone and the surrounding San Francisco Peaks. The reddish cinders at the top of the cone give the crater its name, reminiscent of a perpetual sunset. The monument also offers a visitor center with exhibits about the area's geology and cultural history. Rangers are available to provide information and guidance. Sunset Crater is connected to Wupatki National Monument by a scenic 35-mile loop road, making it easy to explore both areas in a single trip. The monument provides a compelling look at the power of volcanic forces and the resilience of life in the face of dramatic change.

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