There are park alerts in effect.
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Cave permits now available for selected park caves
FREE mandatory cave permits are now available to visit specific caves in El Malpais. Permits can be obtained at the El Malpais Information Center on NM Highway 53 or at the Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center at I-40/Exit 85. More »
Plan Your Visit
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A Wild and Wonderful Land El Malpais National Monument and National Conservation Area encompass over 350,000 acres. Whether you have an hour or a week, this area offers experiences that range from scenic drives and self-guided trails to remote wilderness exploration. Whatever your choice, come prepared! You can download our brochures and plan your trip. Or stop at one of our visitor centers where staff can help you decide where to go next. 
A hiker takes in the views from a ridge near El Calderon on the Continental Divide Trail in El Malpais.
NPS Photo by Sue Olin
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Did You Know?
Two distinct kinds of lava can be found in the varied flows of El Malpais. Lava is known by names from the Hawaiian Islands. Aa lava is clumpy and forms numerous irregular chunks, while pahoehoe lava cools to form smooth surfaces often covered with ropy textures. More...