Just a short drive north and east of Flagstaff you will find two NP units - Wupatki National Monument and Sunset Crater. Both parks are on the same road - you come to Sunset Crater first.

The eruption that changed the landscape and the patterns of the people who lived here occurred more than 900 years ago. We went there twice, once at sunset and again the following morning. We did two short hikes across the interesting landscape. The snow capped mountains made a nice background to the black volcanic land around the hiking area.

The VC was closed, and we did not see other people. We might have missed a great hike or two but it was still a very worthwhile stop.

Cadillac’s Viewpoint: What is with the black, sharp and jaggedly rocks? My hoof needs a new mooseicure. Cadillac’s Elevation: 1.5 Antlers