Capulin Volcano

The Capulin Volcano last erupted more than 60,000 years ago. From a vent in the earth, pressurized magma exploded into the air, raining lava rock, fire and ash onto the local population of mammoth, bison and short-faced bears. The cinder cone that remains now rises 1,000 feet above the valley floor. The park's visitor center holds exhibits about the volcano and the geologic and human history of the region. Capulin is one of several volcanic peaks in the area, and the only one that still has a visible crater. The rich soil supports a thriving ecosystem of plants and animals, including wild turkey, mule deer and black bear.