Capulin VolcanoAbout Capulin Volcano
Capulin Volcano is a well-preserved cinder cone volcano and National Monument in northeastern New Mexico that sits within the Raton-Clayton volcanic field. It is notable for its classic volcanic cone and accessible rim views.
The site features a paved road to a parking area at or near the crater rim and walking trails that allow close inspection of the crater interior and panoramic views across the volcanic field. Visitors commonly walk the rim trail to observe the cone’s geology and to view expansive plains and distant mountain ranges.
Capulin is a volcanic feature formed by basaltic eruptions; its cone and surrounding deposits record local volcanic activity within the broader Raton-Clayton field. The area was designated for protection to preserve its volcanic landform and scientific value.
The volcano stands in northeastern New Mexico, within Colfax County, and is accessed from nearby small towns; the nearest regional population centers are Raton to the northeast and other communities along U.S. highways in the area.
- Accessibility: Rim parking and short paved trails make the summit accessible for most visitors, with panoramic views across the surrounding volcanic field on clear days.
What to See#
- Scenic drive to rim: A paved access road rises from the park base to the crater rim and parking area, providing easy access to the summit and viewpoints without technical hiking.
- Rim trail: A rim trail encircles the crater and offers close-up views of the cinder cone, interior slopes and the surrounding volcanic field; the trail length is approximately one mile on established paths.
Best Time to Visit Capulin Volcano
Late spring through early autumn for comfortable conditions and the clearest vistas; winter can be dramatic but more hazardous.
Weather & Climate near Capulin Volcano
Capulin Volcano's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -11°C to 28°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -11° - 6° | -8° | 12 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -9° - 8° | -6° | 14 mm | - | - | 5.3 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -6° - 11° | -3° | 22 mm | - | - | 5.6 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | -3° - 15° | 2° | 25 mm | - | - | 6.0 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 3° - 20° | 11° | 58 mm | - | - | 5.7 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 8° - 25° | 16° | 57 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 10° - 28° | 19° | 86 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 10° - 27° | 18° | 77 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 7° - 24° | 15° | 49 mm | - | - | 4.7 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 1° - 18° | 7° | 23 mm | - | - | 5.1 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -6° - 11° | -2° | 16 mm | - | - | 5.1 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -10° - 7° | -7° | 12 mm | - | - | 5.3 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Capulin Volcano
By car: From Raton take US-64/87 east toward Capulin; the park is signed from the highway and has a paved road to the rim with parking.
Tips for Visiting Capulin Volcano
- Drive the scenic loop to the summit early in the day; volcanic roads can be narrow and visibility is best in morning light.
- Walk short rim trails for unobstructed views of the volcanic cone and surrounding plains.
- Bring layers - wind at elevation can be brisk even in summer.