Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center

The Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center, located near Flagstaff, Arizona, offers an informative experience for those interested in volcanic geology and local history. The center provides educational exhibits about the formation of Sunset Crater and its impact on the surrounding landscape and ancient peoples. Visitors appreciate the well-designed displays and interactive elements that help explain volcanic processes. The short film shown at the center is generally considered helpful in understanding the area's geological history.

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff who are eager to answer questions and provide additional information. The center serves as a good starting point for exploring the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, with maps and guides available for hiking trails in the area.

On the downside, some visitors find the center relatively small and feel that it could benefit from more extensive exhibits or updated displays. A few reviewers mention that the entrance fee might seem a bit high for the size of the facility, although it does cover access to the entire national monument.

The surrounding area, with its cinder cone and lava flows, generally receives more praise than the visitor center itself, with many recommending the short Lava Flow Trail for a closer look at the volcanic features. Some visitors suggest that the center could provide more information about the cultural history and impact on indigenous peoples of the area.

Overall, the Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center is considered a worthwhile stop for those exploring the unique volcanic landscape of northern Arizona, offering a good balance of education and preparation for further exploration of the monument.