El Malpais - Western National Parks Association

El Malpais

National Monument

Welcome!

The richly diverse volcanic landscape of El Malpais (el-mal-pie-EES) offers solitude, recreation, and adventure. Explore diverse geologic features such as lava flows, cinder cones, lava tube caves, and sandstone bluffs. While some may see a desolate environment, people have been adapting to and living in this extraordinary terrain for generations. Discover the land of fire and ice!

Banner Image

Explore More National Parks

David Kroese, author of “The Centennial: A Journey Through America’s National Park System,” reveals the hidden gems of the National Park System with Western National Parks Association’s regional program manager, Caroline Lochner. “The Centennial: A Journey Through America’s National Park System” details David’s compelling explorations of 387 national parks in 360 days. The story continues through December 2017, when he becomes one of fewer than fifty people known to have visited all 417 national parks. Experience the inherent marvels within America’s unique landscape and fascinating history, revealed in engaging context, poetic descriptions, and heartfelt appreciation. This book is available for purchase from http://store.wnpa.org.

Stories from El Malpais

Pathways to Understanding: Archaeological Survey of the Zuni-Acoma Trail
Are Caves a Source of Bat Microbiota? A Comparison of Microbial Communities in Caves and Cave Roosting Bats in El Malpais National Monument
Climate and Vegetation Reconstructions Using Ice Cores in Lava Tubes at El Malpais National Monument
Since our founding in 1938

WNPA has provided more than

$136 million

in aid to our partner parks to fund educational programs, initiatives, and scientific research

Kids in Parks

National parks are places where kids can dream up great adventures! Taking in amazing scenery. Testing out new skills. Exploring places kids may have only heard about. But most importantly, creating new memories with friends and family.

Our public lands are our public commons. They belong to all of us as part of our natural and cultural heritage. They remind us of a larger world that has existed long before the arrival of humans and will survive long after we are gone. –Terry Tempest Williams, Author & Conservationist

Shop Online

Bring the Parks Home

When you can’t get to a national park for a visit, experience it from the comfort of your home. WNPA’s online store is packed with ranger-approved park collectibles, books, toys, and clothing. Shop for a special item.