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!

Yellow sandstone cliff at sunset with dark lava field in background

About 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!

Quick Facts

Location: NM
Designation: National Monument

Operating Hours

El Malpais National Monument is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with the following exceptions: - Sandstone Bluffs Overlook and the West Zuni-Acoma Trail parking lot are open from sunrise to sunset. - El Malpais Visitor Center and parking area is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Winter hours may vary. The visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 25th, and January 1st. - El Malpais Emergency Operations Center is currently closed to the public.

Wednesday: All Day
Monday: All Day
Thursday: All Day
Sunday: All Day
Tuesday: All Day
Friday: All Day
Saturday: All Day

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

Guided Tours & Experiences

Discover El Malpais National Monument with expert-led tours

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Find Hotels Near El Malpais National Monument

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Essential Park Gear

Recommended equipment for your visit

Plan Your Trip From a Nearby City

Find national parks near these cities, including El Malpais National Monument.

Scroll to Top