Located just north of Flagstaff on U.S. Highway 89, Sunset Crater is a great side trip when you visit the Flagstaff area. It’s an ancient volcanic crater, complete with lava flow and other volcanic residue, and you can take a wonderful, easy hike around the base of the crater that will introduce you to the plants, animals, and diversity of the area. This Lava Flow Trail is self-guided and only a mile long, so it’s perfect for just about everyone. Look for the tree that was hit by lightening along the trail!

Right next door to Sunset Crater is Wupatki National Monument, a wonderfully preserved look into Native Americans of the desert southwest and their culture.  There’s another short hiking trail here that allows you to see the size of this pueblo and the many activities that went on when Natives lived here over 800 years ago.

Both of these parks are so close to Flagstaff, you can spend the day outside and spend the night nearby. There are no concessions at the parks, so bring your own food and drink. Find out more here.