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El Malpais National Monument A hiker stands on a lava bridge in Big Tubes
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As of December 6, 2010, all lava tube caves in El Malpais National Monument are CLOSED to recreational use

The cave closure brings the monument into compliance with federal law.
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Experience an Extreme Land!

This landscape was generated by volcanic forces over the past million years. Lava flowed out from dozens of eruptions to create cinder cones, lava flows, collapses, craters, trenches, caves, and other eerie formations.
 
Lava tube caves are a window into another world.

Volcanic Vistas, Pahoehoe Pathways

Whether you have an hour or several days, there's plenty to enjoy at El Malpais. Download our brochures and choose from scenic drives, panoramic overlooks, easy graded trails, or strenuous treks on cairned routes.

Things to do

Places to go

Nearby Attractions
 
Flowers will soon bloom in the high desert of El Malpais.

The Latest Announcements

Winter in El Malpais

Winter on the lava flows is a time of contrasts. Snow blankets the lava formations and softens the contours of the land. The days are often crisp, cold, and bright. Paved roads are currently open and passable, but backcountry roads are snowy or muddy, and should be allowed to dry out. Contact a visitor center for up-to-date road and trail conditions.

NEW Plant Guide now available!

Over 140 species of area plants described along with color photographs. Visit our Nature/Plants page to download your copy!
 
A ranger discusses the bats of El Malpais

Ranger Led Programs

Our summer programs are done for this year, but watch this space for special fall hikes and events as they occur. Astronomy programs at the Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center will also be posted here.
 
The fire danger is moderate.

Four Winds Fire Program

Cool fall weather reduces fire danger, but the Four Winds Fire Team is busy with plans for the next season of fire management.

Read all about it: click here to learn more about the Four Winds Fire Program.
 
 

Write to

El Malpais National Monument
123 East Roosevelt Avenue
Grants, NM 87020

E-mail Us

Phone

Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center
(505) 876-2783

Monument Headquarters
(505) 285-4641 ext. 0

Fax

(505) 876-2791

Climate

El Malpais ranges in elevation from 6500 to 8300 ft. The weather in northwestern New Mexico is unpredictable and visitors should be prepared for all conditions throughout the year.

Spring is quite variable, with stormy weather, blustery wind, and temperature extremes.

Summer can be warm to hot out on the lava fields. Monsoonal thunderstorms are a common occurrence during afternoons and lightning poses a hazard to hikers.

Fall is perhaps the mildest season in El Malpais. Cool nights give way to mild days as the leaves change color. Fall storms can bring snow and colder weather.

In the winter, snowstorms are common and nights are cold with below freezing temperatures.
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Last Updated: January 18, 2011 at 16:56 MST

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