Did you know you can visit the site of Arizona’s most recent volcanic activity right around Flagstaff Arizona? Sunset Crater National Monument (combined with Wupatki National Monument) is a perfect day trip from Flagstaff.

Sunset Crater is a unique experience, with the opportunity to walk among the lava and learn about lava flows and interesting facts about how Sunset Crater formed around 1,000 years ago.

In this post you will get to know all about visiting Sunset Crater in Flagstaff Arizona, including hiking trails and camping.

Come explore the surreal beauty of a volcanic landscape at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument in Northern Arizona.

 

 

Sunset Crater Volcano Flagstaff

Where is Sunset Crater Volcano?

Sunset Crater is northeast of Flagstaff Arizona, allow about 40 minutes driving time from downtown Flagstaff to the park.

Take US-89 North from Flagstaff and watch for the signs on the right side of the highway.

 

 

Hours and Fees

Hours

Visitor Center is open from 9 am – 5 pm daily (except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day)

Trails are open from Sunrise to Sunset daily

Fees

The fee is for 7 days and includes both Sunset Crater and Wupatki National Monument

• $25 per vehicle
• $20 motorcycle
• $15 pedestrian/cyclist

Scroll to the bottom of this post for info on the campground  and fees for camping.

 

 

Sunset Crater Map

As you can see on the map of Sunset Crater National Monument (below) all the hiking trailheads are close together, there is only one road through the park, and the campground is across from the visitor center.

 

 

While at Sunset Crater National Monument you can get by without a map in hand because there are maps posted at each of the hiking trails.

But it’s nice to get an idea of where everything is before you go.

 

 

Cinder Hills Overlook

The Cinder Hills Overlook is a beautiful place to watch the sunset over Sunset Crater and if you are lucky you get to see the moon rise too.

I was fortunate to see the sun setting and catch the rising full moon in July.

 

 

 

When did Sunset Crater Volcano Erupt?

It is estimated that Sunset Crater erupted sometime between 1040 and 1150 CE and is the most recent volcano activity around Flagstaff Arizona.

The volcanic eruption and lava flow along with the spreading of ash for hundreds of miles changed the climate in the area. Lichens formed on the rock surfaces and began to break down the rock into soil.

Spatter cones appeared around the volcano and you can see one on the Lave Flow Trail.

 

 

Sunset Crater Volcano Hikes

There are several short hiking trails at Sunset Crater and it’s easy to do all of them in one visit. Remember that the lava rock is sharp and brittle so be careful.

 

Lava’s Edge Trail

Lava’s Edge hike is the longest trail in the park but it’s only 3.4 miles total hike. If it’s hot out and you don’t feel up to doing the full hike you can do a portion of the hike and turn back when you are ready.

There is no shade on this trail. Remember to bring a wide brimmed hat, sunscreen, water, snacks, and durable hiking shoes.

• Distance: 3.4 miles (5.8 km) round trip
• Type of hike: Out and back
• Elevation gain: 175 ft (53 m)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: Allow 2 – 2.5 hours

 

 

 

A’a Trail

A’a is a Hawaiian word for lava, a particular type of lava. A’a lava is rough and sharp.

Walking the short trail within the lava flow of the A’a path at Sunset Crater you can see how sharp the lava looks.

• Distance: .2 miles (.3 km)
• Type of hike: Loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: 15 minutes

 

 

Lenox Crater Trail

Across the road from A’a Trail and Lava’s Edge Trail you can hike through the ponderosa pine forest on the Lenox Crater Trail.

Lenox Crater Trail features beautiful views of the San Francisco Peaks, Sunset Crater, Bonito lava flow, and O’Leary Peak.

• Distance: 1.6 miles (2.5 km)
• Type of hike: Loop
• Elevation gain: 275 (85 m)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: Allow 1 hour

 

 

Bonito Vista

Bonito Vista is a paved trail that takes you out to the Bonito lava flow with beautiful views. This trail is wheelchair accessible.

• Distance: .3 miles (.5 km)
• Type of hike: Out and back
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: 20 minutes

 

 

Lava Flow Trail

Walking along the base of the Sunset Crater this interpretive trail is the best hiking trail if you can only do one hike at Sunset Crater.

• Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
• Type of hike: Loop
• Elevation gain: 72 ft (22m)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: Allow 1 hour

 

 

Sunset Crater Camping

Open from spring until mid-October, Bonito Campground is located across from the Sunset Crater visitor center in a forest of ponderosa pine trees. More info on camping at Bonito here.

• Camping fees are $26 per night for up to 8 people with 1 vehicle
• Additional vehicle is $8
• 14 day stay limit
• Day use is $8 for up to 5 people

The campground features 44 sites with picnic tables, fire rings with cooking grills, drinking water, flush toilets, and paved roads.

• Tents, motor homes and trailers under 42′ are permitted
• No reservations
• No utility hookups

 

 

Remember to watch for wildlife on the road, pronghorn often show up around dawn and dusk.

 

 

Explore more fun things to do around Flagstaff Arizona with 17 day trips near Flagstaff including the beautiful town of Sedona with amazing hiking trails like the Little Horse Trail or embrace the vibe at Sedona Peace Park.

If you love hiking be sure to check out Oak Creek Canyon hiking trail (near Sedona) especially when you want a hike with some shade! For an adventure and some history visit the Honanki Heritage Site.

Also make time for a fun road trip to Winslow Arizona then continue to the Petrified Forest National Park.

Have fun exploring and enjoy your Arizona vacation!

 

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