Interesting Facts, History & Information About Capulin Volcano

Capulin Volcano National Monument is a unique and fascinating destination located in northeastern New Mexico. This stunning park is home to a perfectly symmetrical cinder cone volcano that rises over 1,000 feet above the surrounding plains. The volcano is estimated to be over 60,000 years old and has been designated as a national monument since 1916.

In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating history and geology of Capulin Volcano, and share some interesting facts and information about this incredible natural wonder that is sure to inspire your next adventure.

Interesting facts about Capulin Volcano

1. Capulin Volcano is a symmetrical cinder cone volcano located in northeastern New Mexico, USA, which rises more than 1,000 feet above the surrounding plain.
2. The volcano is estimated to be between 58,000 and 62,000 years old, making it one of the youngest volcanoes in the region.
3. Capulin Volcano National Monument, which includes the volcano and surrounding area, was established in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson and is now managed by the National Park Service.
4. The volcano is known for its well-preserved cone shape and the hiking trail that leads to the top, offering visitors stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Rocky Mountains, the Great Plains, and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
5. The volcano last erupted about 60,000 years ago, with the resulting lava flows covering an area of approximately 16 square miles.
6. The area around Capulin Volcano has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human presence dating back to at least 10,000 years ago. The region was home to the Jicarilla Apache and other indigenous peoples.
7. Capulin Volcano has been designated a National Natural Landmark due to its scientific and educational value, and it is an important site for geological research and education.
8. The monument also contains several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center with exhibits about the volcano’s geology, history, and natural environment.
9. Capulin Volcano has been used as a location for several films, including the 1960s science fiction movie “The Andromeda Strain” and the 1980s action movie “Red Dawn.”

Capulin Volcano last eruption:

The most recent eruption of Capulin Volcano occurred approximately 60,000 years ago, during the Pleistocene Epoch. The volcano is currently dormant, meaning that it has not erupted in recorded history and there is no evidence to suggest that it will erupt again in the future. However, the park is monitored for signs of volcanic activity, and visitors are advised to follow all park regulations and stay on designated trails to avoid potential hazards associated with the volcano.

How was Capulin Volcano formed?

Capulin Volcano was formed through a series of volcanic eruptions that occurred over a period of thousands of years. The volcano is a cinder cone, which is a type of volcanic cone that is formed by explosive eruptions of ash, cinders, and other volcanic debris.

The eruption that formed Capulin Volcano began with the release of gas and ash, which created a large cloud that rose into the atmosphere. As the ash and debris settled back down to the ground, it formed a ring-shaped deposit around the volcanic vent. Over time, this deposit grew larger and larger, creating the distinctive cone shape of the volcano.

Capulin Volcano is unique in that it has a perfectly symmetrical shape, which is rare for cinder cone volcanoes. This is due to the fact that the volcano was formed in a single, relatively short period of time, resulting in a uniform shape and size.

Today, visitors to Capulin Volcano National Monument can hike to the top of the volcano to see the incredible views of the surrounding landscape and gain a better understanding of how this fascinating geological feature was formed.

What type of Volcano is Capulin?

Capulin Volcano is a cinder cone volcano, also known as a scoria cone volcano. This type of volcano is characterized by its steep, cone-shaped hill that is made up of loose, fragmented volcanic rock called scoria. Cinder cones are usually smaller in size than other types of volcanoes and are often formed from a single eruption. They typically have a bowl-shaped crater at the summit that is formed by explosive eruptions of gas and volcanic material. Capulin Volcano is one of the best examples of a cinder cone volcano in the United States and is an important geological landmark in northeastern New Mexico.

How old is Capulin Volcano?

Capulin Volcano is estimated to be between 55,000 and 60,000 years old. The volcano is located in the Raton-Clayton volcanic field, which is part of the larger Jemez volcanic field in northeastern New Mexico. Capulin Volcano is one of the youngest and best-preserved examples of a cinder cone volcano in the United States, and its relatively young age makes it an important site for the study of volcanology and geology. The volcano was designated as a national monument in 1916 and is a popular destination for hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.

Information & History of Capulin Volcano

Capulin Volcano is a dormant cinder cone volcano located in northeastern New Mexico, USA. The volcano stands at an elevation of 8,182 feet above sea level, rising more than 1,000 feet above the surrounding plains. Capulin Volcano is estimated to be between 58,000 and 62,000 years old, making it one of the youngest volcanic features in the region.

The volcano was first recognized as a significant geological feature by early explorers and pioneers in the mid-19th century. The name “Capulin” is derived from the Spanish word for “cherry,” referring to the dark red color of the volcanic rock found on the cone.

In the late 19th century, the region around Capulin Volcano was settled by ranchers and farmers, and the volcano became an important landmark for navigation and surveying. In the early 20th century, the area was recognized for its scientific and educational value, and efforts were made to preserve the volcano and its surrounding environment.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson established Capulin Volcano National Monument to protect the volcano and its unique geological features. The monument covers an area of approximately 800 acres and is managed by the National Park Service.

Today, visitors can explore the monument’s hiking trails, take in the stunning panoramic views from the summit of the volcano, and learn about the area’s geological history and natural environment at the visitor center. The monument is also an important site for geological research and education, and has been designated a National Natural Landmark.

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FAQ about Capulin Volcano

What is Capulin Volcano?

Capulin Volcano is a dormant cinder cone volcano located in northeastern New Mexico, USA.

How old is Capulin Volcano?

Capulin Volcano is estimated to be between 58,000 and 62,000 years old, making it one of the youngest volcanic features in the region.

What is Capulin Volcano National Monument?

Capulin Volcano National Monument is a protected area established in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson to preserve the volcano and its surrounding environment. It is managed by the National Park Service.

What activities are available at Capulin Volcano National Monument?

Visitors can hike the monument’s trails, take in the panoramic views from the summit of the volcano, learn about the area’s geological history and natural environment at the visitor center, and enjoy picnicking.

Can visitors climb to the top of Capulin Volcano?

Yes, visitors can climb the hiking trail to the top of Capulin Volcano, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Is Capulin Volcano still active?

No, Capulin Volcano is considered to be dormant, meaning it is not currently erupting and has not erupted in thousands of years.

What is the significance of Capulin Volcano?

Capulin Volcano is significant for its scientific and educational value, its well-preserved cone shape, and its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It has also been designated a National Natural Landmark.

Is Capulin Volcano accessible to people with disabilities?

The park offers several facilities and services to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible trails, restrooms, and parking areas.