El Malpais National Conservation Area
Located 80 miles west of Albuquerque, the El Malpais National Conservation Area is a must-see destination for your day trip to New Mexico. The area was established in 1987 to protect and showcase numerous natural wonders surrounding the Grants Lava Flows.
El Malpais means "the badlands", so named due to the volcanic features such as lava flows, cinder cones, pressure ridges, and complex lava tube cave systems that dominate the landscape. Sandstone bluffs and mesas border the eastern side, providing access to vast wilderness. Elevation in the park ranges from 6500 to 8300 ft. The most recent lava flow emanated from McCarty's Crater within the last 2,000 to 3,000 years, so the park remains a geologically active area.
Included in the area you can admire the La Ventana Natural Arch, numerous dramatic sandstone rock formations, canyons, and cliffs. Your first stop should be the Ranger Station, where you can get information on current conditions and the various hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. Activities in the conservation area include wildlife watching, hiking, walking, cave-exploring, and much more. If you have an RV you can easily spend a night or two in the Joe Skeen Campground.
- Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5
- Area: 1,064 km²
- Admission: Free
- Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Address: NM-117, Grants, NM 87020
