Lava’s Edge Trail
The Lava's Edge Trail is a great way to appreciate the interesting scenery of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument near Flagstaff. This area is devoted to preserving and showing off Flagstaff’s volcanic past, and this hike takes you over volcanic black rock from an eruption years prior as you hike around Lenox Crater. This hike is good for all ages.
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Route Description for Lava’s Edge Trail
The Lava's Edge Trail is a fascinating trail that leads you across the black volcanic rock left over from a volcanic eruption in years past around Lenox Crater. The Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is an area filled with craters, volcanic rock, and dormant volcanoes, and this little piece of it is a fun way to experience the unique landscape without needing to work very hard considering the lack of elevation gain on this route.
We’d recommend hiking in closed-toed shoes, as the volcanic rock can be rough and sharp. Otherwise, this is a fast and straightforward hike.
From the trailhead next to Lenox Crater, take your time as you traverse the lunar landscape leftover from a lava flow many years ago. The route takes a few winding turns before ending at Bonito Campground. From here, turn around and retrace your steps to the trailhead.
Getting to the Lava’s Edge Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Lava's Edge Trail is on Wupatki and Sunset Crater Loop Road.
Route Information
Lava’s Edge Trail Elevation Graph
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