The National Monument occupies 3,040 acres of land with a peak elevation of 8029'. The volcano erupted in 1064 and then periodically erupted over the next 200 years. The Sinagua Indians were witness to this. The volcano eventually covered over 800 square miles with ash and created the 1,000' cinder cone surrounding the volcanoes. The lava flow includes the large Bonito Lava Flow and the nearby Kana-A Lava Flow. Sunset Crater is in the northeast corner of Coconino National Forest. You can continue another 18 miles on the road (FS 545) to Wupatki National Monument. FS 545 will eventually bring you back to Rt 89 after travelling 36 miles. Flagstaff is the largest city in the area and offers full resources and facilities. The National Monument offers very limited facilities.

Outdoor activities include hiking, camping and sightseeing. For more information, contact Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, 6400 N. Highway 89, Flagstaff, AZ 86004 or call 520-679-2365.

All pictures on this page are from the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, using film and digital cameras.

Looking at the volcano from the paved trail.
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From the unpaved loop trail, looking at the lava and growth of the Bonito Lava Flow.
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Looking back at the Lava Flow and the San Francisco Peaks from the loop trail. Humphrey's Peak, at 12,633', is the higest peak in Arizona.
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Bonito Lava Fill from the view point immediately off of the Forest Service Road.
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From the Cinder Hills overlook on the edge of the park directly off the Forest Service Road.
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Proceed to the Wupatki National Monument.
Return to the Coconino National Forest Home page.

Further information can be found at the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument GORP page,
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument USGS page or
Watch online travel videos of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument located in Flagstaff Arizona USA at TravelRapidly.com.