About
Length3 mi
ShapeLoop
DifficultyEasy
Typical time1 hr 35 min
TrailheadParking Lot at the Visitor Center
ParkingThe Nature Trail and the Lava Flow Trail can be accessed from the parking lot at the visitor center. The Boca Trail can also be accessed from this parking area by hiking up to and through the picnic area on the Lava Flow Trail. Alternately, the Boca Trail and Lava Flow Trail can be accessed from the picnic area when Volcano Road is open.
SurfacePaved
Best seasonWinter brings with it snow and ice as well as wind, so be prepared for cold weather and slippery areas on the trails. Occasionally the visitor center will close due to weather, and the restrooms an...
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
AccessibilityService animals are allowed on all trails at Capulin Volcano. The Nature Trail is a fully accessible, tenth of a mile, flat, 5 foot wide smooth concrete path that can be accessed by a ramp from the end of the patio in front of the visitor center. The Lava Flow Trail is a rough, 1 mile, 1 to 10 feet wide, uneven trail covered in dirt, cinder, and large lava rocks with steep uneven steps in places. The Boca Trail is a rough, 2 mile, sometimes steep, 1 to 3...
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🏞️ Lake🦌 Wildlife

Take a walk over and around the lava flows Capulin Volcano produced. With over 3 miles of trail at the base of the volcano, there's plenty of opportunities to enjoy the volcanic geology of this unique cinder cone. The Nature Trail is a figure eight sidewalk trail that is accessible to all. Stop along the way at descriptors discussing plant life, geology, and wildlife in this short walk around a volcanic "squeeze up." The Lava Flow Trail is an unimproved, 1 mile loop that crosses a couple of the volcano's lava flows while providing great views of the surrounding volcanic topography. The Boca Trail isan unimproved, 2 mile loop through the Boca area, which is the vent area at the base from which the volcano's lava flows originated. The trail provides close up views of numerous geologic features including collapsed lava tubes.

Tips
The hiking trails are open from dawn to dusk. While pets are allowed on the Nature Trail as long as they are on a leash, only service animals are allowed on the Lava Flow Trail and Boca Trail. All ages are welcome to hike these trails. Be prepared for the changes in elevation (the trails are around 7,300 feet or 2,225 meters above sea level and are rocky in places). Always bring water with you when hiking.
Location

Parking Lot at the Visitor Center

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