A two mile road to the top of Capulin Volcano in New Mexico
Usa, north-america
4.18 km
2,405 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trip time! Let's head to northeastern New Mexico and check out Capulin Volcano, chilling in the High Plains. This isn't just any volcano – it's an extinct cinder cone and super accessible. Plus, it's part of the massive Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field, which last blew its top over 60,000 years ago!
The road to the top, Capulin Volcano Road, is a smooth 2.6-mile paved ribbon that winds its way up. It was built way back in 1925 and it's a pretty wild ride!
Be warned: this climb is STEEP. We're talking a maximum gradient of 9% in spots! You start at around 7,188 feet above sea level and end up at 7,890 feet, gaining about 700 feet in just over two and a half miles. That's an average gradient of 5.11%, so hold on tight.
Before you go, double-check for any vehicle restrictions or closures – thunderstorms can shut things down. Also, keep in mind that long RVs, buses, and trailers (over 26 feet) aren't allowed. And the hours change depending on the season, usually 8:00/8:30 am to 4:00/5:00 pm.
Once you're in the Capulin Volcano National Monument, get ready for a scenic drive with tight turns and, yep, sheer drop-offs. But it’s worth it! You'll spiral around the volcano to a parking lot right at the rim. Biking and walking are allowed, but only when the road's closed to cars after hours. Get ready for some killer views!
Where is it?
A two mile road to the top of Capulin Volcano in New Mexico is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 41.4991, -100.2715
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 4.18 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,405 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 41.4991, -100.2715
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