El Malpais National Monument

National Monument · NM

El Malpais National Monument

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

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Photos

Yellow sandstone cliff at sunset with dark lava field in background — Sandstone Bluffs Overlook offers a beautiful view over the vast volcanic landscape of El Malpais.

Hiking in Summer — Enjoy a stroll along the El Calderon Trail to view beautiful wildflowers in summer.

Summer at Sandstone Bluffs Overlook — A vast expanse of lava fields as seen from Sandstone Bluffs Overlook

Summer view from El Calderon cinder cone — A hike to the top of El Calderon cinder cone offers one a view of the entire monument.

Lava Tube caving at El Malpais — Explore lava tube caving at El Malpais National Monument

Activities

Arts and Culture
Auto and ATV
Scenic Driving
Astronomy
Camping
Backcountry Camping
Caving
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Hiking
Hunting and Gathering
Gathering and Foraging
Junior Ranger Program
Wildlife Watching
Park Film
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store