Lava Flow Trail, Kaibab National Forest Travel Guide

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Hike through a volcanic wonderland at Sunset Crater's Lava Flow Trail, an easy loop showcasing Arizona's dramatic geological past.

Explore the dramatic landscape formed by a volcanic eruption on the Lava Flow Trail at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument near Flagstaff, Arizona. This easy hike loops through the Bonito lava flow, offering a close look at volcanic geology, with contrasting Ponderosa pines and wildflowers.

A brief summary to Lava Flow Trail

Loop Rd, Flagstaff, Arizona, 86004, US
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Monday 6 am-6 pm
Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
Thursday 6 am-6 pm
Friday 6 am-6 pm
Saturday 6 am-6 pm
Sunday 6 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lava Flow Trail.

Wear sturdy shoes, as the unpaved sections of the trail can be rough and uneven.
Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months, as there are no dining options within the park.
Visit the Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center for maps, brochures, and information about the park's history and geology.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Wupatki National Monument by taking the scenic loop drive.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Grandview Point

Kaibab Squirrel Area National Natural Landmark

Duck on a Rock Viewpoint

Mather Point

Raptor Ranch

Explore Lava Flow Trail on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Lava Flow Trail, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Flagstaff, drive north on US-89 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; the Lava Flow Trail parking area will be on your right. Entrance fees to Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument are $25 per vehicle, which includes access to Wupatki National Monument for 7 days. No additional parking fees are required. Be aware that the visitor center and trails may have limited hours or closures due to weather conditions.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service from Flagstaff. Expect to pay around $40-$60 for a one-way trip. Alternatively, consider renting a car in Flagstaff for greater flexibility in exploring the monument and surrounding area.

Discover more about Lava Flow Trail

The Lava Flow Trail, located within Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, offers an immersive experience through a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. This easy, one-mile loop trail allows visitors to explore the Bonito lava flow, a testament to the eruption that occurred between 1040 and 1100 AD. The trail provides a fascinating look at the area's volcanic geology, where hardened lava meets the surrounding environment.The trail consists of two loops: an upper paved section suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, and a lower, more primitive trail that travels around the lava flow. The paved section is approximately 0.25 miles long and provides an accessible route for all visitors. The unpaved section has metal stairs providing access to the lower trail. As you hike, interpretive displays offer insights into the volcanic features and the area's history.While hiking the Lava Flow Trail, you'll notice the stark contrast between the black lava rocks and the surrounding Ponderosa pines, Apache plumes, and wildflowers. The landscape is a reminder of the powerful forces that shaped this region, and the ongoing process of nature reclaiming the land. Although a trail to the top of Sunset Crater is no longer available due to erosion, the Lava Flow Trail provides an excellent opportunity to witness the unique beauty of a volcanic landscape.