Why is Sunset Crater Volcano fee collection cashless?
Reducing cash collected in fee operations allows a park unit to be a better steward of our visitors’ dollars. It allows Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument to:
- Reduce the amount of time park staff spend managing cash (i.e. reduce our administrative burden)
- Improve accountability, reduces the chance of errors, and allows the park to maximize funding available for visitor services and critical projects
- Reduce transaction times
- Cashless fee collection helps us stay safe, secure, and effective and allows our rangers to spend more time with visitors.
What if I only have cash?
Visitors who prefer to use cash can purchase a $25 7-Day Vehicle Entrance Pass (good at Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki), $45 Flagstaff Area National Monuments Annual Pass, or $80 America the Beautiful Interagency Pass from our non-profit park partner, Western National Parks Association, at the Sunset Crater Volcano Visitor Center.
Can I use contactless payments (e.g., Apple Pay or my pre-paid Wallet phone app)?
Yes, you can use Apple Pay and other contactless payment systems to pay entrance fees.
Can I use a personal check or cashier’s check?
No. Only credit, debit, and other forms of electronic payment will be accepted for payment of entrance fees.
Can I purchase a pass before I get to the park?
Yes. Visitors can go to recreation.gov to purchase a Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument 7-Day Vehicle Entrance Pass, 7-Day Motorcycle Entrance pass, or 7-Day Pedestrian/Cyclist Pass, which are all also valid at Wupatki, or Annual Flagstaff Area National Monuments Pass.
Can I show a digital copy of my pre-paid entrance pass at park entrance stations?
Yes. Since there is no cell service at the entrance station, passes must be downloaded ahead of time.
Can I still use cash for bookstore purchases at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument?
Yes, our park partner, Western National Parks Association, accepts cash for bookstore purchases..
What are entrances fees used for?
Entrance fees are an important source of revenue used to improve the visitor experience at National Park Service sites, including road and facility repairs and maintenance, trail improvements, accessibility improvements, visitor and resource protection services, and more.
How much does it cost to enter Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument?
The cost for a one-to-seven day vehicle entry is $25, which is also valid at Wupatki. An annual pass, good for one year from the month of purchase, costs $45. More information on passes and fees can be found on the park’s website.
How are commercial tours affected?
Commercial tour operators must pay for fees with a credit card.
