Know All about Capulin Volcano

Capulin Volcano is one of the most outstanding landmarks located in the northeast corner of New Mexico. It also offers visitors excellent opportunities for observing and understanding volcanic formation.

Capulin Volcano National Monument

Capulin Volcano National Monument is a U.S. National Monument established in 1916 by Woodrow Wilson and is located in northeastern New Mexico. It protects, interprets  and stands as an example of an extinct cinder cone volcano and part of the Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field. 

Capulin Volcano Facts

Capulin Volcano was formed during the most recent period of activity in the center of the Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field. It blanketed 15.7 square miles with its lava flow and changed the landscape of New Mexico. 

How Many States Can You See from the Top of Capulin Volcano?

Capulin Volcano’s highest point provides a clear plus 360-degree view of the surrounding volcanic area, distant snow-capped mountains and from that point on the crater rim trail on a clear day, visitors can see portions of five states which are New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, and Colorado.

Elevation of Capulin Volcano

The symmetrical cinder cone rises steeply from the surrounding grassland plains to an elevation of more than 1,300 feet (400 meters) and 8,182 feet (2,494 meters)  above sea level and presents a unique landscape for visitors to explore.

Capulin Volcano Eruption

The volcanic rock last erupted between 55,000 to 62,000 years ago. The volcano went extinct after that eruption. Scientists believe that it might never erupt again and so it is a safe place to explore. 

Capulin Volcano New Mexico

There are no active volcanoes in New Mexico but it possesses many extinct volcanoes that are preserved in the state including the Capulin Volcano that cuts an imposing figure above the stark New Mexico