Parks / Capulin Volcano National Monument
Capulin Volcano National Monument
National Monument · NM
Part of the 8,000 square mile Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field, Capulin Volcano showcases the volcanic geology of northeastern New Mexico. The views are spectacular day or night, with views of 4 different states from the volcanic rim and one of the darkest night skies in the country. Whether it's a quick stop or a day's trip, enjoy exploring the landscape of this unique volcano!
Official NPS page →Current Alerts (3)
Bicycles and Pedestrians now allowed on Volcano Road
Capulin Volcano Highway is now a roadway shared by multiple users that include vehicles, hikers, bikers, walkers and runners. Dogs on a minimum 6-foot leash are also allowed on the roadway. Be watchful of others that are present on the highway. Follow the new traffic flow signs and keep vehicle and bicycle speeds at the posted speed limits of 20 mph in general and 10 mph in the S curves. Let’s all stay safe!
Volcano Top Access Closed to Vehicles over 26 feet long and to all Trailers
The Volcano top access is closed to all RVs, buses, attached pull trailers, or any other vehicle over 26 feet in length due to public safety concerns and limited parking. Trailer drop-off and RV/bus parking are available at the visitor center.
Credit/Debit Card Only to pay entrance fees
Capulin Volcano only accepts credit/debit cards for entrance fees. Our cooperating association Park Store accepts cash, credit/debit cards, and checks. There are limited cash only entrance passes available through our cooperating association Park Store.
Entrance Fees
The Capulin Volcano Annual Pass has a cost of $35.00 and is valid for 12 months from the month of purchase. Admits one private vehicle and all occupants to Capulin Volcano National Monument. This pass can be purchased at the visitor center. Non-transferable and non-refundable.
Upcoming Events
Sunset hike
Sep 5, 2026
Astronomy Festival
Sep 11, 2026
Moonlight Hike
Sep 19, 2026
Things to Do
Become a Junior Ranger at Capulin Volcano
Learn about volcanoes, geology, and the history of Capulin Volcano while completing the Junior Ranger Program! Once you've finished the number of activities required for your age, turn the booklet in at the visitor center to earn a Junior Ranger badge or patch.
Drive to the Top of Capulin Volcano
Drive to the top of an extinct cinder cone volcano on a historic road. Once at the top you can enjoy the views from the parking area or hike trails down into the crater of the volcano or around the rim of the crater.
Explore the Visitor Center at Capulin Volcano
Learn more about volcanoes and Capulin's eruption by exploring the exhibits in the visitor center.
Hike Trails at the Base of Capulin Volcano
The trails at the base of Capulin Volcano are less traveled and quieter than the ones on the top and offer a different view of the volcanic geology here.
View the Night Sky at Capulin Volcano
View the night sky at a volcano! Capulin Volcano National Monument is a International Dark Sky Place, which means thousands of stars are visible in the night sky. On Saturday evenings during the summer, rangers conduct dark sky programs here.
Visitor Centers
- Capulin Volcano Visitor Center
Source: National Park Service.