Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument sits about 15 miles northeast of Flagstaff, where a volcanic eruption roughly a thousand years ago blanketed the surrounding landscape in ash and lava. Today the monument preserves that dramatic terrain of cinder cones, basalt flows, and the hardy pines that have slowly reclaimed it.
What to Know
- A volcanic cinder cone towering above its own lava fields
- Self-guiding trails that walk the edge of the basalt flow
- Paired with nearby Wupatki National Monument on a classic loop drive
A scenic road connects Sunset Crater with Wupatki National Monument and its ancient pueblo ruins, making a full loop drive an easy day trip from Flagstaff. Self-guiding trails such as the Lava Flow Trail let visitors walk right up to the edge of the black basalt flow.
The contrast of dark lava, red cinder, and blue sky is striking at any time of day, and the monument's high elevation keeps the air cool even in the middle of summer.
Mike Konefal
Broker Associate · Coldwell Banker Northland Realty
A Northern Arizona local for more than 26 years, Mike writes this guide to help visitors and future residents discover the best of Flagstaff, Williams, and the surrounding region.
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