- Highlights and Trails at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
- Photos of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument in Flagstaff, Arizona
- Know Before You Go
- Where to Stay Near Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
- Related Tours
- Attractions Near Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument on Route 66
- Plan Your Route 66 Road Trip
- Reviews & Ratings
Highlights and Trails at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Visitor Center
The visitor center has exhibits on the volcanic eruption, the area’s geology, and its significance to Native American tribes. Pick up maps, talk to rangers, and get an overview of the volcanic activity that shaped the landscape.
Lava Flow Trail
The Lava Flow Trail is a popular stop. This one-mile loop takes you through a lava field with up-close views of hardened black lava and the cinder cone. Signs along the trail explain how the lava flows and cinder cones formed.
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) loop
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Bonito Vista Trail
This short, paved trail offers views of the Bonito Lava Flow, Sunset Crater Volcano, and surrounding cinder fields. It’s an accessible, easy option for a quick look at the landscape.
Distance: 0.3 mile (0.5 km) round-trip
Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy, Accessible
Lenox Crater Trail
For those up for more of a challenge, the Lenox Crater Trail is a moderate-to-strenuous hike leading to the top of Lenox Crater. The 1.6-mile round-trip trail provides wide-ranging views of the San Francisco Peaks, Sunset Crater, and other volcanic features.
Distance: 1.6 miles (2.6 km) round-trip
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
A’a Trail
Named after the rugged, jagged A’a lava, this 0.2-mile trail gives visitors a close look at sharp volcanic rock formations. Signs along the path describe the different lava types found here.
Distance: 0.25 mile (0.3 km) round-trip
Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Lava’s Edge Trail
This longer hike takes you along the edge of the Bonito Lava Flow, winding through ponderosa pines, loose cinders, and rough basalt terrain.
Distance: 3.4 miles (5.5 km) round-trip
Time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Photos of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument in Flagstaff, Arizona
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument in Flagstaff, Arizona, here are some things to know before you go.
What is Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument?
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument preserves one of the youngest volcanoes in the continental United States and the dramatic landscape created by its eruption. Around 1085 AD, Sunset Crater erupted, covering the surrounding area with lava, cinders, and volcanic ash. Today, visitors can explore lava fields, cinder cones, and scenic trails while learning how the eruption transformed both the environment and the lives of the Indigenous people who lived nearby.
Where is Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument located?
The monument is located about 15 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona, along the scenic Sunset Crater–Wupatki Loop Road. Many visitors combine a trip to Sunset Crater with nearby Wupatki National Monument.
What are the hours?
The Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is generally open 24/7, daily, while visitor facilities typically operate from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Seasonal changes and weather conditions may affect access.
How much is admission?
Entrance fees are $25.00 per passenger vehicle, $20.00 per motorcycle, or $15.00 per cyclist or pedestrian. The fee includes entrance to Sunset Crater and Wupatki National Monument for 7 days.
Where to Stay Near Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest on your road trip with a stay at one of these Flagstaff, Arizona hotels near Route 66.
Americana Motor Hotel
Built in 1962 and renovated and reopened in 2023, the Americana Motor Hotel is the perfect mix of vintage charm and modern convenience. Rooms are decorated in a retro-futuristic design and offer plush beds, walk-in showers, 4K TVs, and premium WiFi. At the Route 66 hotel you’ll find convenient self-parking, a year-round heated pool, telescopes, board games, yard games, and EV chargers.
Hotel Monte Vista
Built in 1926, Hotel Monte Vista is a classic hotel in a prime location in downtown Flagstaff. The restored guest rooms include free WiFi and cable TV and attached bars offer entertainment and drinks. For those traveling on a budget, Hotel Monte Vista also offers Traveler’s Rooms with shared bathrooms and showers. This hotel is allegedly haunted, so keep an eye out for ghosts. On-site parking is available, though limited.
Related Tours
Visiting Flagstaff, Arizona on your Route 66 road trip? Enhance your visit with a tour!
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Sunset Crater and Wupatki National Monument made a fun day trip from Flagstaff. Took a nice drive and did a couple of easy hikes to see all the scenery here. If you’re planning on doing any of the other national parks or monuments near Route 66 it is worth it to get the America the Beautiful pass because they accept it here!