The Incredible Arizona Hiking Trail That Takes You Past Ancient Lava Flow
By Katie Lawrence|Published March 30, 2019
×
Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Most of us are aware that Arizona is home to several dormant volcanoes, but not everyone knows you can hike through lava that erupted from them. Located near Sunset Crater, the Lava Flow Trail takes visitors on a fascinating journey past 1,000-year-old ash, geological formations, and patches of smoothed-over ground once covered in scalding liquid rock.
This short and sweet trail is just 0.8 miles long, but it takes hikers on a captivating journey through hundreds of years of natural history. While Sunset Crater hasn't erupted in nearly a millennium, the impact it left is still being felt today.
All skill levels can enjoy this adventure, as it's an easy trek. Crowds are usually minimal, so anticipate plenty of solitude and time to connect with Mother Nature.
Hikers haven't been allowed to climb the volcano since the 1930s, but you can walk all the way up to its base. Hardened lava lines the mountain slopes, creating a smooth, seamless landscape that sunlight seems to bounce right off of.
Along the way, you'll encounter several unique rock formations that the scalding liquid left behind in its wake. This "spatter cone," a mini volcano of sorts, is made entirely of ancient, ashen lava.
Despite how much time has passed since fresh lava incinerated the landscape, plants just started growing back less than 500 years ago. Much of the ground is still barren to this day, with fertile soil buried deep beneath a thick layer of cinders.
Informational plaques are scattered along the trail, educating hikers about the area's fascinating history. There are also plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning with geological wonders you can touch.
Dark lava and surrounding lush greenery contrast starkly against one another, creating a unique, picturesque scene. Don't forget your camera; there are countless moments to photograph!
