Capulin Volcano National Monument

Capulin Volcano National Monument

Parks › New Mexico
CONTENTS

Capulin Volcano National Monument

Mammoths, giant bison, and short-faced bears were witness to the first tremblings of the earth and firework-like explosions of molten rock thousands of feet into the air. Approximately 60,000 years ago, the rain of cooling cinders and four lava flows formed Capulin Volcano, a nearly perfectly-shaped cinder cone, rising more than 1000 feet above the surrounding landscape. Although long extinct, Capulin Volcano is dramatic evidence of the volcanic processes that shaped northeastern New Mexico. Today the pine forested volcano provide habitat for mule deer, wild turkey, and black bear. A 2-mile road spiraling to the top of the volcano and paved trails into the crater and around its rim provide access to explore the volcano and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

IN DEPTH

Geology Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field The cinder cone we know as Capulin Volcano serves as the centerpiece for an amazing display of volcanic features in and around the national monument. It...read more

Who's Who at the Park Cooperating Association The monument operates a bookstore in the visitor center to provide information about subjects related to the park. Books about volcanoes, geology, history, and animals are available...read more

History History & Culture MONUMENT HISTORYOn January 16, 1891, Capulin Mountain was "…withdrawn from settlement, entry or other disposition under any of the public land laws, until such time as...read more

Preservation Centennial Initiative 2016 On the August 25, 2006, the 90th anniversary of the National Park Service, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne launched the National Park Centennial Initiative to...read more

Just For Kids For Kids Children 6-12 years old may participate in the Junior Ranger Program. The activity book may be downloaded from the Junior Ranger page of this website. Upon completion,...read more

Frequently Asked Questions How do you pronounce Capulin? The Spanish pronunciation is Ka-poo-leen, but most people say Cap-u-lin. When did it last erupt? The volcanic rock is currently dated at between 56,000...read more

Animals Mammals Large mammals such as deer and bear will travel through the park, using areas for food and shelter. Because the park is small and contains no permanent water...read more

At A Glance Park Statistics AcreageGross Area Acres for FY 2004 - 793Gross Area Acres for FY 2003 - 793Gross Area Acres for FY 2002 - 793VisitationTotal Recreation Visits for FY 2004-...read more

Park Regulations & Safety Your Safety The Volcano Road, which leads to the rim, is approximately two miles long. Snow, ice accumulation, and/or severe thunderstorms can also close the Volcano Road. Current road...read more

Lodging & Dining Lodging Lodging and camping are not available in the Monument. Capulin, NM, 3 miles from the park, has an RV and tent campground with some cabins for rent....read more

PARK PHOTOS

Capulin Volcano : Capulin Volcano, 1262
Capulin Volcano, 1262
National Park Service
Capulin Volcano : Capulin Volcano, 1263
Capulin Volcano, 1263
National Park Service
Capulin Volcano : Capulin Volcano, 1264
Capulin Volcano, 1264
National Park Service