Adventure’s Calling: This Trail Is Ideal for Discovering Caves in Arizona

The best hikes in Arizona aren’t always about incredible scenery, although we have plenty of that to go around. If you’re anything like me, the most memorable trails cultivate a sense of adventure by allowing you to venture off the beaten path and explore. The Old Caves Crater Trail in Flagstaff, Arizona, is located not far from Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and, as its name suggests, the hike features tons of cool caves to check out. It’s dog-friendly, great for kids, and boasts jaw-dropping panoramic views from the summit.

Coming in at 3.7 miles, this loop meanders through the lush ponderosa pines of the Coconino National Forest. It takes hikers on a fascinating journey over volcanic cinder fields, leading to the base of an extinct volcano. While the volcano was only active for a few years, that was plenty of time for it to spew enough lava into the atmosphere to rain back down and form the cinder cone you’ll climb on the trail.

The elevation gain is only about 600 feet, but the trail is already relatively high up to start, so you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the verdant landscape from over 7,000 feet at the top. Near the end, the trail splits. To reach the summit, take the path on the left. Not only will you get to take in the beautiful surroundings, but you’ll also see the remnants of other extinct volcanoes in the area. 

Take a right, and this is where things really start to get interesting. If you were wondering where the trail gets its name from, you’re about to find out. Many hundreds of years ago, the Sinagua people built caves here to store building materials for their dwellings. It’s unclear exactly how many caves exist along the trail and in the surrounding area, but the number is likely high. 

Most of the caves are large enough to go inside while still being safe and shallow, so even kids can poke around and explore. As you search for the entrances and experience these ancient underground chambers, imagine how the Sinagua people must have felt when they discovered this rugged landscape, which was untouched at the time. 

You’ll also see a stunning collection of broken pottery pieces along the trail (including inside the caves!). They were likely made by the Sinagua people and were missed during excavations of the area. Please don’t take anything; instead, admire their intricate designs with your eyes only, forever etching them into your memory. 

Since the trail isn’t terribly long, feel free to backtrack and take the other fork so you can see everything. Just be sure to get an early start if it’s summertime because there isn’t much shade (aside from the parking lot). 

Visit AllTrails for more information about the Old Caves Crater Trail, including current trail conditions. If you’re like me and are prone to getting lost on hikes, consider downloading AllTrails+. The offline map access feature provides uninterrupted connection, so you can enjoy peace of mind even if you lose cell service.

Have you ever taken this trail? If so, do you think it’s one of the best hikes in Arizona? We’d love to hear your opinion.