Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Lava flows and ice caves
Local residents had a surprise 1,000 years ago. A volcano erupted in their back yard. The crater gushed cinder and lava and turned the forest into a fiery lava field. Now ponderosa pine and aspen struggle to survive in the barren habitat.
The 1-mile Lava Flow and Lenox Crater trails take you into the heart of the devastation zone. The loop drive continues through the pueblo ruins of Wupatki Nat. Monument. One entrance fee covers both national monuments. Located 12 miles north of Flagstaff off US 89. Loop drive open all year.
Camping available at the Bonito USFS Campground (spring-summer) on FR 545 just outside the entrance: 44 sites, water, flush toilets, no hookups, no reservations.
Visitor Centre (Entry Location): 6400 U.S. 89
Flagstaff 86004
(928) 526-0502
www.nps.gov
Price: $ (Entrance free with America the Beautiful passport)
Open: Road open 24/7; trails sunrise to sunset