Many people – even native Arizonans – are surprised to hear that our state was once rife with angry volcanoes, but even fewer folks know there’s a hiking trail that leads straight to several caves formed by ancient lava flows from past eruptions. This is one adventure you’ll definitely want to take the family out for this summer.
Hidden deep in the Coconino National Forest is a trail that winds through a landscape that dates back several millennia.
AllTrails/Josh Mays Old Caves Crater Trail winds through gorgeous Ponderosa Pines, leading to the base of an extinct cinder cone volcano.
Clocking in at 4.2 miles, Old Caves Crater Trail is rated as moderately difficult. It’s an uphill loop that takes about 1.5 hours from start to finish.
AllTrails/Nikki Robertson
Just before the summit, you’ll come to a fork in the road. Take a right and head down the dirt road for a short distance to reach these incredible caves.
Alltrails/Ashlyn Daniels
Formed by an ancient lava flow, the deep red rocks are a stark contrast against the lush surrounding greenery.
TripAdvisor/zubill Step inside and take a look around, closing your eyes and picturing how drastically different the terrain looked eons ago.
It’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other hikers along the pathway, allowing you more solitude to truly revel in the scenery.
AllTrails/Kim Jackson
Keep ascending gradually and you’ll soon arrive at the summit.
Alltrails/Josh Mays Enjoy an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the mountainous landscape. The stillness is so profound that you could hear a pin drop.
To access the Old Caves Crater Trail, head north on I-89 until coming upon Silver Saddle Road. Turn right, and then look for the trailhead on your left just a couple yards down the street.
AllTrails/Josh Mays
Old Caves Crater Trail winds through gorgeous Ponderosa Pines, leading to the base of an extinct cinder cone volcano.
AllTrails/Nikki Robertson
Alltrails/Ashlyn Daniels
TripAdvisor/zubill
Step inside and take a look around, closing your eyes and picturing how drastically different the terrain looked eons ago.
AllTrails/Kim Jackson
Alltrails/Josh Mays
Enjoy an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the mountainous landscape. The stillness is so profound that you could hear a pin drop.
Have you ever been to the Old Caves Crater Trail? Are there any other volcano trails in Arizona that deserve a spot on everyone’s outdoor adventure bucket list? Let us know your favorites, and check out our previous article to learn about one of ours: The Incredible Arizona Hiking Trail That Takes You Past Ancient Lava Flow.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
