Arizonans need not travel to Hawaii or Iceland to get a look at bizarre volcanic geological formations. Many fine specimens can be found along the Doney Trail in Wupatki National Monument north of Flagstaff.
The trail leads to two of four cinder cone volcano summits that sit on a north-south line of the Doney Fault which is visible from the top of peak number two.
A short walk over black cinders leads to a saddle with a bench and a lone one-seed juniper tree standing sentry over big views of the Painted Desert.
- LENGTH: 0.7-mile round trip
- RATING: moderate
- ELEVATION: 5,300 – 5,500 feet
- BEST SEASON: May – October
- FACILITIES: restroom, picnic table
- THE RULES: As with all archeological sites, it is illegal to take or damage anything. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Pets are not allowed on any park trails or in buildings.
GETTING THERE:
- From Flagstaff, travel north on U.S. 89 to milepost 444.5.
- Turn right and continue 9 miles to the Doney Picnic Area turn off on the right.
- Roads are 100% paved.
