Sunset Crater National Monument: The “Cinders” name is not reserved for my husband’s grilling skills

Pete likes being part of the action—socializing, not necessarily cooking. So, after a few episodes of “Oops, this one got away from me” excuses, he earned the affectionate name “Cinders” by our friends and family. Fortunately the focus on “cinders” has moved away from Pete and to an area in northern Arizona. 

Sunset Crater National Monument
Sunset Crater National Monument

The Cinder Hills Overlook and Sunset Crater National Monument near Flagstaff is a great place to visit and escape the heat of the Valley of the Sun in the summer. The walk is easy, views are interesting of lava flow and cinders and it’s a fun event for the entire family. Make sure to drive the loop to get the full experience of the fissure, volcanic eruptions and the Sunset Crater. There is a small entry fee so don’t forget your wallet.

Cinder Hills Overlook sign
Cinder Hills Overlook sign

Here are a couple of things you should expect to see and how to get there…

More on The Cinder Hills Overlook and Sunset Crater National Monument near Flagstaff…

Lava Flow Trail sign at Sunset Crater National Monument
Lava Flow Trail sign at Sunset Crater National Monument
Paved trail at Sunset Crater National Monument
Paved trail at Sunset Crater National Monument
Volcanic landscape at Sunset Crater National Monument
Volcanic landscape at Sunset Crater National Monument
Pine trees in Sunset Crater National Monument
Pine trees in Sunset Crater National Monument
Wildflowers at Sunset Crater National Monument
Wildflowers at Sunset Crater National Monument
Wildflower field at Sunset Crater National Monument
Wildflower field at Sunset Crater National Monument

Enjoy your next trip camping in Arizona!

If you want to go: From Phoenix, head north on I-17 to Flagstaff. Merge onto I-40 heading eastbound (toward Alburquerque). Watch for the signs. Head north on US-89 to the Sunset Crater National Monument: 6400 N US Highway 89.

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What do you think?

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4 Comments

  1. I forgot to tell you that I am planning to visit here sometime this summer!

  2. This is great, thanks for sharing!

    1. Kim Hanna says:

      Thanks Rick! You have a few more months to visit before the snow starts falling in northern AZ. I suggest this trip for you and your camping friends!