Wupatki National Monument, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument – Arizona

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When we moved to Arizona from Michigan in 2006, one of the things that struck me as we explored Arizona was the vast number of archaeological sites that remain as the result of the region’s arid climate.

The harsh Michigan climate destroyed ancient civilization sites in short order, but here at Wupatki, I find myself walking in a structure built by one of the Ancient Pueblo Peoples perhaps dating around 500 AD.

The Wupatki National Monument is roughly an hours drive northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona.  And, on the way, you should also stop at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

Here is a photograph I shot of the Sunset Crater Volcano.

This area would make a fun day trip from Phoenix.  Get an early start, have breakfast in Flagstaff, and then head to both of these monuments for some easy hiking, eye-popping beauty, and a better understanding of the rich history found in Arizona.

To learn more about what to do in the Flagstaff area, visit the Flagstaff Convention and Visitors Bureau by CLICKING HERE.

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