A volcano erupted in the winter of 1064-1065. Molten rock sprayed high into the air out of a crack in the ground. The remains of this violent activity is protected here. Sunset Crater and its lava flows are part of the San Francisco Volcanic Field, an expanse of more than 400 volcanoes. The San Francisco Peaks, the high mountains eight miles west of the Monument, dominate the volcanic field. Sunset Crater National Monument was established on May 26, 1930.

• The scenic drive and trails are open all year, from sunrise to sunset.
• The Visitor Center is open all year, except December 25.
• Hours: 
  • November through April: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. MST
  • May through October: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. MSt

• From Flagstaff, take US 89 north for 12 miles. Turn right at the sign for sunset Crater Volcano-Wupatki National Monuments. Drive 2 miles to the Sunset Crater Visitor Center.
• Get directions from MapQuest.
• NPS Directions.

• Expect variable weather conditions. Short afternoon thunderstorms are common in July through September. Expect high winds during March and April. In winter months, heavy snowfall is not uncommon.
• NPS Weather Conditions.
• See area weather chart.
• See Canyon Country Weather for more information.
• Sunrise/Sunset

• Sunset Crater Volcano is closed to hiking.
• The loop road through the Monument is narrow and winding, with soft shoulders. Stop only at designated pullouts. The speed limits are reduced for the safety of pedestrians and wildlife. Due to high elevation the road surfaces can freeze quickly in winter.
• See National Park Service Restrictions and Regulations.
• See American Antiquities Act of 1906.
• See Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979.
• See Pets in the Parks and Backcountry.
• See Encountering Wild Animals.

• Use caution on unpaved roads because vehicles can become stuck in soft cinders (in dry weather) or mud (during flash floods).
• Watch for deep, narrow cracks in the Earth and razor-sharp lava when hiking.
• Use caution on unpaved roads because vehicles can become stuck in soft cinders in dry weather or mud during flash floods.
• Lava is sharp, brittle, and unstable. A fall on cinder or lava is not a pleasant experience.
• See Backcountry Considerations.
• See Backcountry Emergencies.
• NPS News Updates.