Road Closure Planned for Sunset Crater Volcano September 21 through October 21

Road Closure Planned for Sunset Crater Volcano September 21 through October 21

For Immediate Release: August 24, 2026

Contact: [email protected]

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - Beginning September 21, Forest Road 545 will close to all vehicle traffic starting near the intersection with Highway 89A to the park entrance kiosk near Bonito Campground. The closure is necessary to complete culvert installation and is anticipated to last through October 21. During this closure, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, including the Visitor Center and trails, will remain open and accessible via Forest Road 545 through Wupatki National Monument. The Forest Road 776 detour is an unpaved road, and high clearance vehicles are recommended. Forest Road 776 is not suitable for RVs and trailers.

"Forest Road 545 is an important travel corridor for visitors and local residents, connecting Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki national monuments," said Flagstaff Area National Monuments Acting Superintendent Penny Wagner. "Maintaining the roadway to ensure public access is critical. This project will address flooding impacts to the road and drainage issues following the Tunnel Fire and we appreciate the public's patience as crews complete the work."

Visitors planning a trip to Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument during the road closure should plan extra driving time to visit the park. It is a 19-mile, or 30-minute drive between the visitor centers at Wupatki and Sunset Crater Volcano. The road is expected to reopen to vehicle traffic on October 22.

-NPS-

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