El Malpais National Monument

El Malpais
The richly diverse volcanic landscape of El Malpais offers solitude, recreation, and adventure. Explore diverse geologic features such as lava flows, cinder cones, lava tube caves, and sandstone bluffs. A beautiful and breathtaking landscape, people have been adapting to and living in this extraordinary terrain for centuries and generations.

1900 E Santa Fe Ave
Grants, NM 87020
United States

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505-783-4226

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El Malpais
El Malpais
El Malpais
El Malpais
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Discover El Malpais National Monument

El Malpais photo

Venture into a landscape shaped by fire and time at El Malpais National Monument, where vast lava flows, towering sandstone cliffs, and hidden caves create a rugged, otherworldly terrain. Located in western New Mexico, this striking volcanic landscape has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years and remains a place of cultural significance. Hike through lava fields, peer into ancient lava tubes, or take in sweeping views from sandstone bluffs. El Malpais offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the high desert, where geology, history, and adventure converge.

Bring the parks home

From mugs to ornaments, our keepsakes make perfect gifts for all ages. Every purchase supports the parks!

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2012 Passport Stamp Set

$6.99

El Malpais/Continental Divide Hiking Stick Medallion

$7.99

El Malpais National Monument Footed Mug

$27.99

El Malpais National Monument Magnet - Big Skylight

$5.99

El Malpais National Monument Pin - Round Logo

$5.99

Visit the WNP store

Visit the WNP store inside the El Malpais National Monument Visitor Center. Shop collectibles, keepsakes, trail guides, books, mementos, and more and remember your visit to this beautiful place. 

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Sandstone Bluffs in the midday sun

Exploring Petrified Forest National Park, El Malpais National Monument, & El Morro National Monument

Discover ancient landscapes, volcanic wonders, and historic inscriptions on this three-day remote adventure through Arizona and New Mexico.

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Visit smart

Hike the Lava Flow Trails

Trails like the El Calderon Trail and Lava Falls Trail take you across ancient lava fields with stunning views.

Explore lava tubes

Some caves, like the 60 thousand-year-old Junction Cave, are open to visitors with a free permit—bring a flashlight and sturdy shoes.

Visit Sandstone Bluffs overlook

This scenic viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas of the lava fields and distant mountains.

Check road conditions

Some areas, like the remote Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway, require high-clearance vehicles and can become impassable after rain.

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Our contribution

Over $162 million

Since our founding in 1938, WNP has provided more than $162 million in aid to our partner parks to fund educational programs, initiatives, and scientific research.

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Why stop at just one?

If you love El Malpais, check out these other amazing parks.

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El Morro National Monument

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