Most of us are aware that Arizona is home to several dormant volcanoes, but not everyone knows you can hike through lava that erupted from them. Located near Sunset Crater, the Lava Flow Trail takes visitors on a fascinating journey past 1,000-year-old ash, geological formations, and patches of smoothed-over ground once covered in scalding liquid rock.
This short and sweet trail is just 0.8 miles long, but it takes hikers on a captivating journey through hundreds of years of natural history. While Sunset Crater hasn’t erupted in nearly a millennium, the impact it left is still being felt today.
Alltrails/Frank Anders
All skill levels can enjoy this adventure, as it’s an easy trek. Crowds are usually minimal, so anticipate plenty of solitude and time to connect with Mother Nature.
Alltrails/Frank Anders
Hikers haven’t been allowed to climb the volcano since the 1930s, but you can walk all the way up to its base. Hardened lava lines the mountain slopes, creating a smooth, seamless landscape that sunlight seems to bounce right off of.
Alltrails/Alexis Watanabe
Along the way, you’ll encounter several unique rock formations that the scalding liquid left behind in its wake. This “spatter cone,” a mini volcano of sorts, is made entirely of ancient, ashen lava.
Alltrails/Frank Anders
When Sunset Crater started to spew, a large crack in the ground opened up. Known as a fissure, this break in the Earth’s crust is still visible today.
Alltrails/Tangie Prieskorn
Despite how much time has passed since fresh lava incinerated the landscape, plants just started growing back less than 500 years ago. Much of the ground is still barren to this day, with fertile soil buried deep beneath a thick layer of cinders.
Alltrails/Jason Sacks
Informational plaques are scattered along the trail, educating hikers about the area’s fascinating history. There are also plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning with geological wonders you can touch.
Alltrails/Frank Anders
Dark lava and surrounding lush greenery contrast starkly against one another, creating a unique, picturesque scene. Don’t forget your camera; there are countless moments to photograph!
AllTrails/Gary Tindall
For more information, visit Sunset Crater’s website.
Alltrails/Frank Anders
Alltrails/Alexis Watanabe
Alltrails/Tangie Prieskorn
Alltrails/Jason Sacks
AllTrails/Gary Tindall
Have you ever hiked the Lava Flow Trail? Are there any other trails in Arizona that lead through ancient rock formations? Here’s one of our favorites: An Arizona Indian Tribe Mysteriously Vanished And Left Behind These Ancient Rock Drawings.
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