Sunset Crater is a cinder cone volcano located in northern Arizona. The crater is located within Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument was created to protect Sunset Crater, the youngest in a string of volcanoes within the San Francisco Volcanic Field.
This unique landscape features a volcanic cone that was formed by a series of eruptions over 900 years ago. The cone rises out of the surrounding landscape like a giant sentinel, its reddish-brown rocks contrasting beautifully with the blue Arizona sky. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by car, taking in the numerous trails, scenic lookout points, and interpretive exhibits along the way.
There are also fascinating archaeological sites nearby, including ancient Pueblo ruins and artifacts scattered throughout the region. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or a history buff, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone.
In the summer of 2022, the Tunnel fire completely swept through the Monument and destroyed almost everything except the Visitor Center.
Hiking in Sunset Crater
Lava Flow Trail Accessible for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers! Explore the Bonito Lava Flow and numerous volcanic features while walking at the base of Sunset Crater Volcano. Pets are welcome on the paved portion of this trail. There is a pet station with waste bags at the trailhead.
Distance: 1 mile loop
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy. The accessible upper 0.25 mile loop has a paved, concrete surface.
Bonito Vista Trail is Accessible for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers! Walk across a field of cinders on this paved trail for an expansive view of the Bonito Lava Flow and surrounding volcanoes.
Distance: 0.3 mile round-trip
Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Lenox Crater Trail – CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO FIRE DAMAGE Walk in a ponderosa pine forest while viewing Sunset Crater Volcano, the Bonito Lava Flow, O’Leary Peak, and from the summit, sweeping views of the San Francisco Peaks.
Distance: 1.6 miles round-trip
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
A’a Trail – Observe jagged blocks of rough, basaltic a’a lava, formed as the Bonito Lava Flow cooled.
Distance: 0.25 mile round-trip
Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Lava’s Edge Trail – Walk under ponderosa pines, over loose cinders and rough basalt along the jagged edge of the Bonito Lava Flow.
Distance: 0.25 mile round-trip
Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
