El Malpais National Monument Travel Guide

Plan your visit to El Malpais National Monument with our comprehensive guide. Discover culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scenes, and more.


El Malpais National Monument is a natural marvel located in Northwest New Mexico, sitting on over 110,000 acres of protected land managed by the National Park Service. The name, translated from Spanish, means “The Bad Lands,” and while the landscape may seem harsh, it is home to stunning geologic features, a diverse range of flora and fauna, and a rich cultural history. Plan your next trip to El Malpais National Monument with our comprehensive guide, covering everything from must-see sights to hiking routes and where to stay.

Introduction to El Malpais National Monument

El Malpais National Monument is situated in the high desert country of northwestern New Mexico. The area is known for its striking volcanic rock formations, lava tubes, and sandstone bluffs. The park offers visitors a glimpse into the geological history of the region and also provides opportunities to learn about the cultures that have called this area home for thousands of years.

List of Places to Visit in El Malpais National Monument

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • El Malpais Visitor Center and Museum: This is a great place to start your visit to the monument, providing a historical overview of the local cultures and geologic features. You can also pick up helpful information and maps for your adventure ahead.
  • La Ventana Natural Arch: This impressive natural arch was created when softer sandstone eroded away from under a harder cap of rock. At over 130 feet high and 40 feet wide, it’s a sight to behold.
  • El Morro National Monument: Although not in El Malpais, it’s worth checking out this nearby national monument that features inscriptions from early Spanish explorers and Native Americans, dating back to the 1600s.

Natural Attractions of El Malpais National Monument: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway: Drive through the monument on this scenic route showcasing the stark beauty of the landscape. Lookout points provide opportunities to stop and marvel at the rugged terrain.
  • Lava Falls Trail: This strenuous 8.5-mile out-and-back hike features dramatic views of the surrounding lava flows and hulking volcanic cones. The trailhead is located at the El Malpais Visitor Center.
  • Cave Area Trail System: Explore lava tubes and a sandstone cave on a short hike perfect for families. The trail system can be accessed from a parking lot off of Highway 53.

Hiking/Biking Routes of El Malpais National Monument

The park offers a plethora of hiking and biking trails ranging from easy to challenging, which have routes that will take you through fields of lava rocks and up to fire-breathing craters. The trails include:

  • El Calderon Trail: A 2.2-mile trail offering fantastic views of the monument’s youngest volcanic eruption, El Calderon. This trail ranges from easy to moderate difficulty.
  • Rim Trail: A 1.5-mile loop hike along the rim of the Narrows. This trail is easy and offers stunning views of the sandstone bluffs and the start of the Narrows.
  • Zuni-Acoma Trail: A challenging 7-mile hike that leads to a historic Zuni Pueblo ruin. You’ll ascend over 1,000 feet and climb down through rugged terrain. Terrain and hike are not suitable for children

Best Things to Do in El Malpais National Monument: Activities and Tours

  • Backpacking: Backpacking is allowed within backcountry areas of the monument. Backpackers should follow Leave No Trace principles and register with the monument visitor center.
  • Geocaching: If you love treasure hunting, the monument has several geocaches hidden along its trails.
  • Stargazing: El Malpais is the perfect spot to observe stars and the Milky Way galaxy with an unobstructed view of the sky away from the light pollution of the city.
  • Photography: With vistas of rolling lava fields and stunning sandstone formations, you’ll find plenty of Instagram-worthy shots throughout the park.
  • Ranger Programs: Join a ranger-led program to learn more about the park’s geology, nature, and culture. Check the park website for program schedules.

Week-Long Itinerary for El Malpais National Monument

Take a week to fully explore all that the monument has to offer. Here is a sample itinerary:

  • Day 1: Visit the El Malpais Visitor Center and Museum, then head out on a short hike through the Cave Area Trail System.
  • Day 2: Drive the Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway to see some of the park’s top attractions.
  • Day 3: Hike El Calderon Trail in the morning and take a ranger-led program in the afternoon.
  • Day 4: Go backpacking in the backcountry areas of the monument.
  • Day 5: Take a guided tour of the local Zuni Pueblo.
  • Day 6: Try geocaching on one of the park’s trails.
  • Day 7: Relax with some stargazing at night.

Food and Drink Scene of El Malpais National Monument

Must-Try Dishes

When visiting El Malpais, you’ll find a unique blend of traditional Mexican, Native American, and American cuisine. Don’t miss out on these local favorites:

  • Green Chile Stew: A hearty stew featuring tender meat and green chiles, this is a classic New Mexican dish that’ll warm you on a cold day.
  • Smoked Meat: El Malpais is known for its smoked meat, made from beef or pork, which is slow-cooked over a wood fire for hours, infusing it with a rich, smoky flavor.
  • Frito Pie: A popular New Mexican dish, Frito pie is a comforting mix of Fritos, chili sauce, and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Local Beer: Microbreweries are popping up throughout the state, so keep your eyes out for local brews.
  • Tequila: Tequila is made from the blue agave plant, which is grown in the arid regions of Mexico. Sip on a refreshing tequila cocktail or try it in a shot with lime and salt.

Where to Stay in El Malpais National Monument: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The monument itself does not offer lodging, but there are some hotel options located in nearby towns such as Grants and Gallup:

  • Holiday Inn Express Grants-Milan: Affordable hotel located about 25 minutes away in Grants.
  • Coyote Del Malpais Golf Course and RV Park: This is a more rustic option for those traveling on a budget.
  • El Rancho Hotel Gallup: This historic hotel located in Gallup dates back to the 1930s and features southwestern-style furnishings.

What to Buy in El Malpais National Monument: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Native American Arts and Crafts: The Zuni and Acoma Pueblos are renowned for their intricate, handcrafted pieces. Pick up a piece of pottery, jewelry, or a rug as a reminder of your trip.
  • Local Spices: New Mexico’s green and red chile is famous for its distinctive flavor, so stock up on packets of ground or dried chile to take home with you.
  • Smoked Meats: Bring back a taste of El Malpais by purchasing some locally made beef or pork jerky.

Local Culture and Customs of El Malpais National Monument

The area is home to diverse communities, including the Zuni and Acoma Pueblos that have a rich cultural history. If you visit during a pueblo celebration or feast day, be mindful of appropriate behavior and dress.

Best Time to Visit El Malpais National Monument

The best time to visit El Malpais is in the spring and fall when the temperatures are cooler and the crowds are fewer. Summer months can be extremely hot, and winters can be chilly with icy roads and trails.

Do’s and Don’ts of El Malpais National Monument

Do:

  • Follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.
  • Wear sturdy shoes when hiking.
  • Carry plenty of water and food.
  • Be respectful of cultural and historic sites.

Don’t:

  • Climb on formations or cliffs.
  • Remove rocks or other natural features from the monument.
  • Start a fire outside of authorized areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in El Malpais National Monument

  • Pay attention to trail markers and bring a map and compass with you.
  • Stay on designated trails and stay away from steep edges.
  • Be aware of changing weather conditions, especially during the rainy season.

Health in El Malpais National Monument

  • Altitude sickness can be a concern, especially for those not accustomed to high altitudes.
  • Bring plenty of water and sun protection, including hats and sunscreen.
  • Watch out for poisonous plants like poison ivy, oak, and sumac.

Getting to El Malpais National Monument: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near El Malpais National Monument

The closest airport to El Malpais is the Albuquerque International Sunport, about a two-hour drive away. Rental cars are available at the airport.

Bus Stations Near El Malpais National Monument

Greyhound offers bus service to Gallup, about an hour’s drive from the monument.

Other Options

The monument can be accessed via the I-40 or Highway 53.

How to Get Around in El Malpais National Monument

A personal vehicle is the best option for getting around the monument. The Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway is accessible via car, and hiking trails can be accessed by car or on foot.

Where to Go Next from El Malpais National Monument: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bandera Volcano and Ice Caves: Located about an hour away, this privately owned hiking park features a dormant volcano and underground ice caverns.
  • Chaco Culture National Historical Park: A two-hour drive will take you to this UNESCO World Heritage site featuring well-preserved ruins of ancient Puebloan settlements.
  • White Sands National Park: Journey four hours south and visit this stunning national park featuring the largest gypsum sand dunes in the world.

Conclusion

El Malpais National Monument is a natural wonder waiting to be explored. Plan your trip using this comprehensive guide, and you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable adventure through the rugged beauty of the park’s volcanic landscape, diverse cultures, and rich history.

La Ventana arch in El Malpais National Monument La Ventana arch in El Malpais National Monument