Ancient volcano named ‘most underrated’ spot in Arizona
Apr 8, 2016, 3:29 PM
(Flickr Photo/ Credit: John Menard)
(Flickr Photo/ Credit: John Menard)
PHOENIX — Flagstaff-area Sunset Crater was named “the most underrated place” in Arizona by Thrillist.com, a food and travel site.
Sunset Crater Volcano is designated a National Monument offering several hiking trails and a visitor’s center. Unfortunately, the path to the summit was closed by the National Parks Service due to hiker damage.
Still, breathtaking vistas can be seen due to the higher vantage point, including a sweeping view of the north side of the San Francisco peaks.
(Flickr Photo)
“Almost 1,000 years ago, the soft high desert meadows were demolished by lava, and the past millennium of growth has created one of the most diverse landscapes in America,” said Thrillist.
Sunset Crater is located 20 miles northeast of Flagstaff, a short 30-minute drive up Highway 89.
Sunset Volcano’s last eruption was some time in the late 11th century and created the 1,120-foot high crater that we see today. According to the National Park Service, the ensuing lava flows forced some Sinaguan settlers to evacuate the area.
The lava and ash that spewed from the volcano wiped out all vegetation in the surrounding area, but now wildflowers and ponderosa pines are slowly retaking ground.
(Facebook Photo)
Visit the park services’ site to find the best times to visit “the most underrated place in Arizona.”
