Sunset Crater Volcano

Flagstaff, AZ is at the epicenter of National Park goodness because, you know, the Grand Canyon, but there are also beautiful ruins at Wupatki, and down the road there’s a 900-year-old volcanic crater.

Which raises a question: What did the residents of Wupatki think when Sunset Crater Volcano erupted all those centuries ago? I’m guessing something like “WTF!” Except in their native language.

Regardless, the remains are beautiful in that stark way I happen to admire.

I’m not the first one to have the impulse to run out and slide down that hill, because there’s a sign prohibiting it. Dammit.

Despite the stark landscape there were still plenty of trees.

See?

And lichen! I’m also quite fond of lichen, because what’s not to like? (Groan.)

More mountains in the distance.

I’m heading to New Orleans this weekend, so I’ll share photos from that soon. Unless I accidentally coat the camera in powdered sugar from all the beignets I plan to eat.

If you liked this post, feel free to share it with the buttons below!