Doney Mountain Trail
Table of contents
Doney Mountain Trail is a short hike in the far northeastern corner of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. This route is one that tends to look even better in real life than the pictures, so make sure to spend some time gazing out over the scrubby desert landscape where craters and volcanoes and lava flows show off its volcanic past. This hike is easy enough to serve as a warm-up for a longer day of exploration in the park. Expect light traffic.
Route Description for Doney Mountain Trail
Doney Mountain Trail is a short hike that packs a punch in the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument near Flagstaff. This hike is a quick win, but don’t underestimate the views for how short it is–it’s a hike that looks way better in person than the photos (and the photos are nice!). Use this as a short adventure or combine it with other trails in the park for even more fun.
There’s a $25 fee to access the park (subject to change), so we recommend planning a few hikes or visits to a few different viewpoints. There are volcanoes, ruins, and more to see not far from Doney Mountain!
From the trailhead, you’ll take the trail on the right (there are two that leave from here) and hike a short distance to where the trail splits. There are viewpoints at the end of both arms of the trail, so we suggest going left first to get to the closer of the two viewpoints, then going right for a viewpoint of the desert and mountain peaks. When you’re ready, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
Insider Hints for Doney Mountain Trail
- To get your admission fee’s worth in the park, we recommend doing this hike, the Lava Flow Trail, and Lenox Crater Trail.
Getting to the Doney Mountain Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for Doney Mountain Trail is on Doney Mountains Access Road.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
March-November
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Out and back
Doney Mountain Trail Elevation Graph
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