Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is located in northern Arizona, approximately 15 miles north of Flagstaff. It encompasses an area of about 3,040 acres and was established as a national monument in 1930 by President Herbert Hoover.

The primary feature of the monument is the Sunset Crater, a cinder cone volcano that last erupted in the 11th century. The volcano received its name due to the brilliantly colored volcanic scoria that coats its slopes, resembling a sunset hue. It is estimated to have erupted over a period of several years, forming a massive cinder cone, lava flows, and nearby volcanic features.

The historical significance of Sunset Crater lies in the fact that it is one of the youngest volcanic fields in the continental United States, providing a unique and well-preserved geological record. The eruptions in the area had a significant impact on the local Native American population, the Sinagua, who lived in the region at the time. The volcanic activity forced them to abandon their settlements and relocate to other areas.

Visitors to the national monument can explore the volcanic landscape through various hiking trails, including the easy Lava Flow Trail or the more strenuous Lennox Crater Trail. These trails guide visitors through the lava fields and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding environment. Interpretive signs provide insights into the geology, ecology, and history of the area.

Nearby attractions include the Wupatki National Monument, which showcases ancient Native American pueblos and provides insight into the history of the Sinagua people. Visitors can take a trip to the Walnut Canyon National Monument, where they can explore archaeological sites, cliff dwellings, and scenic hiking trails. Flagstaff, a lively mountain town, is also close by and offers a wide range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.

Overall, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument offers an opportunity to witness the geological processes that shaped the region and provides a glimpse into the rich history of the area's native inhabitants. Visitors can enjoy hiking, scenic views, and nearby cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is located in the northern region of the U.S. state of Arizona. Situated approximately 15 miles north of Flagstaff, the monument is nestled amidst the vast and captivating landscape of the Colorado Plateau. This intriguing geological site sits at the heart of the volcanic field, marking the confluence of the San Francisco volcanic field's lava flows. As one explores this tranquil environment, they will be embraced by the panoramic beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests, offering an awe-inspiring backdrop to the striking volcanic landscapes. With its striking red cinder cones, jagged lava fields, and unique flora, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument stands as a testament to the powerful forces of nature and the ever-changing geology that shapes the Arizona landscape.

Address & Contact

6082 Sunset Crater Road
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Driving Directions
Phone: 928-526-0502
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is in April or May. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 62°F to 69°F, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation ranges from 0.6 in to 0.7 in, indicating relatively dry conditions. These months also experience a moderate number of visitors. This allows visitors to enjoy the monument without encountering large crowds.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument are: Astronomy Stargazing Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Topics

Learn about these topics at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: Night Sky Astronomy Scenic Views Volcanoes

Visitor Centers

Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center

The Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center includes a museum, WNPA park store, park film, and restroom facilities. The building features architecture from the Mission 66 era. Park rangers are present, passes are available for purchase, and Junior Ranger activities are available.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Flagstaff, AZ

Located in Flagstaff, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Flagstaff, AZ is in a national park, within a 5-minute drive of Flagstaff Mall and The Marketplace and Bushmaster Park. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3501 E Lockett Rd, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link

Sonesta ES Suites Flagstaff

When you stay at Sonesta ES Suites Flagstaff in Flagstaff, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Flagstaff Mall and The Marketplace and Sacred Peaks Health Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a computer station, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Flagstaff? This aparthotel features 426 square feet (38 square meters) of event facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1400 North Country Club Drive, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham East Flagstaff

When you stay at Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham East Flagstaff in Flagstaff, you'll be in a national park, within a 5-minute drive of Flagstaff Mall and The Marketplace and Bushmaster Park. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3601 E Lockett Rd, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link

Super 8 by Wyndham Flagstaff

Located in Flagstaff, Super 8 by Wyndham Flagstaff is within a 5-minute drive of Flagstaff Mall and The Marketplace and Bushmaster Park. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3725 Kasper Avenue, Off I-40 Exit 201, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link

Elden Trails Bed and Breakfast

Located in Flagstaff, Elden Trails Bed and Breakfast is within a 5-minute drive of Sacred Peaks Health Center and Flagstaff Mall and The Marketplace. Featured amenities include luggage storage, laundry facilities, and a library. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 6073 Snowflake Drive, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link

Hampton Inn & Suites Flagstaff East

When you stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Flagstaff East in Flagstaff, you'll be in the mountains, within a 5-minute drive of Flagstaff Mall and The Marketplace and Sacred Peaks Health Center. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Flagstaff? This hotel has 462 square feet (43 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 990 N Country Club Drive, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Flagstaff Northeast

Located in Flagstaff, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Flagstaff Northeast is in a national park, within a 15-minute drive of Walnut Canyon National Monument and Northern Arizona University. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1000 North Country Club Dr, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link

Rain Valley Road

Located in Flagstaff, this vacation home is a 3-minute drive from Sacred Peaks Health Center and 5 minutes from Flagstaff Mall and The Marketplace. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 7275 North Rain Valley Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link

Silver Saddle Mountain Retreat

Located in Flagstaff, this vacation home is a 4-minute drive from Sacred Peaks Health Center and 6 minutes from Flagstaff Mall and The Marketplace. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5980 Silver Saddle Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link

Fabulous, Fun, Fortress

Located in Flagstaff, this vacation home is in a rural location, within a 15-minute drive of Flagstaff Mall and The Marketplace and Sacred Peaks Health Center. RV/bus/truck parking is available onsite.
Address: 5285 North Copley Road, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004
Web: Link