Hike Capulin Volcano in New Mexico
Capulin Volcano in New Mexico is one of the more perfect cinder cone volcanoes in America. Part of a large volcanic field, Capulin is a younger volcano at roughly 60,000 years old. You can drive to the top of the volcano where you walk the 1-mile footpath around the rim and take in the fantastic views.
Cinder cones, like Capulin Volcano, are the most common type of volcano in the world and in the National Park System. They are formed when magma, located tens of miles below the Earth’s surface, is forced upward through the crust. The pressure from the gas propels the magma through a vent in the Earth’s surface and explodes out in clouds of gas and volcanic material. As the material falls back to Earth it forms a cone and shapes the volcano.
Many volcanos will remain without trees or forested habitat. Capulin is very different in that regard. It has developed a forested habitat on its entire surface which is rich with wildflowers and wildlife. What was born from violence has become a quiet serenity of nature and beauty that is shared by over 67,000 visitors a year.
Our experience at Capulin Volcano was very enjoyable. After stopping by the visitors center for our stickers and stamp we drove up the winding road and into the belly of the beast. At the top, a park ranger will help direct parking (if needed) and then you’re free to explore. The first thing you’ll notice is the amazing view from the parking lot. In addition to the beautiful landscape, you’ll be able to see the old volcanic field that has stood the test of time. As you peer into the volcano you’ll see long, deep slopes that are covered with vegetation from top to bottom.
The walking path is narrow but paved and clear. As you walk around the crater you’ll run across different signs that tell different stories about the history of the surrounding area and volcano itself. From lightening strikes to landscapes, the hike is very educational and enjoyable. Be sure to find the resident convergent lady beetles hiding on the volcano. Each summer at Capulin Volcano, a new generation of lady beetles migrate and take up residence at the highest points of the volcano. After feeding all summer, they hibernate through the winter on the volcano. The park ranger challenged us to find them and we did just that.
Overall, the hike at Capulin Volcano doesn’t take much time and is an entertaining little hike that is good for the whole family. It’s an excellent 1.4 miles trek to burn some extra calories and learn something about volcanoes that maybe you didn’t know.
Cost of Adventure
- Per vehicle: $20 (for 7 days)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Total distance: 1.4 miles
- Calories burned: 100 – 300
- Time suggested: 1 hour
- Family friendly: YES
- Park size: 793 acres
Challenge Yourself
Scaling a magnificent volcano should be enough of a challenge to take on. However, here at Capulin Volcano we’ll take it a couple steps further. The 1-mile loop up and around the rim is just part of the challenge. Be sure to travel the .4-mile round trip to the vent at the bottom of the crater. Only then will you have completed the exploration of Capulin Volcano.
Find Great Photo Ops
Any time you get a chance to explore a volcano, there will be plenty of great photo opportunities. At Capulin Volcano you will get great shots from inside of the volcano as well as breathtaking views from the surrounding landscape.
Complete the Scavenger Hunt
The scavenger hunt here at Capulin Volcano will take a little searching on your away around the rim; however, it can only be completed by trekking both the one-mile rim hike and descending .2 miles into the volcano’s crater. Good luck, cheaters.
