Some of New Mexico’s best-hidden secrets are hiding right under our noses. Did you know there is one fascinating spot in the Land of Enchantment where you can get a glimpse of multiple states during a hike? Get ready for a breathtaking sight when you hike the Crater Rim Trail at New Mexico’s Capulin Volcano National Monument.
Located in far northern New Mexico, Capulin Volcano National Monument is home to an extinct cinder cone volcano that is exceptionally well-preserved.
Jason C_Photography/Google
The cinder cone itself is at least 55,000 years old, making this a fairly young volcano by geological standards.
Don & Melinda Crawford/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Its young age combined with the volcano’s isolated location has made it an ideal location for geological studies.
The trail you’ll want to explore here is the Crater Rim Trail.
Ray Hunter/AllTrails Measuring just over one mile in length, it circles around the volcano and up around the volcano’s rim.
The trail is a little steep in some areas, but it is paved, so it’s a trek that just about everyone in the family can enjoy.
Aji Kayamkulam/Google Keep in mind that the trail is almost entirely unshaded and the elevation here is exceptionally high at more than 8,100 feet above sea level. So, take your time on the hike and take in the views.
From here, you’ll be treated to a stunning sight of the surrounding area and even some landmarks in nearby states.
scgerding via Getty Images
At the summit, you’ll be able to see not only the surrounding volcanic field but also portions of Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas!
Jay Spear/Flickr
Capulin Volcano National Monument is located near the town of Capulin, which is approximately 200 miles from Santa Fe via Interstate 25.
Google Maps
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset and entrance fees are $20 per vehicle for up to seven days. For additional information about the park or trails, visit the National Park Service website or AllTrails.
Jason C_Photography/Google
Don & Melinda Crawford/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
Its young age combined with the volcano’s isolated location has made it an ideal location for geological studies.
Ray Hunter/AllTrails
Measuring just over one mile in length, it circles around the volcano and up around the volcano’s rim.
Aji Kayamkulam/Google
Keep in mind that the trail is almost entirely unshaded and the elevation here is exceptionally high at more than 8,100 feet above sea level. So, take your time on the hike and take in the views.
scgerding via Getty Images
Jay Spear/Flickr
Google Maps
Location: Google Maps Phone: 575-278-2201 Website: National Park Service / Capulin Volcano Trail information: AllTrails
Want to check out a few more fascinating trails? If you prefer trails where you’ll be hard-pressed to find another human, then read 5 Trails Where You Can Enjoy A Quiet, Remote Hike In New Mexico.
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Address: Capulin Volcano National Monument, New Mexico 88418, USA
