• Sweeping panoramic views of lava flows, cinder cones, and distant mountains can be enjoyed at Sandstone Bluffs.

    El Malpais

    National Monument New Mexico

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  • All caves in El Malpais National Monument are closed to recreational use.

    This closure is due to a combination of factors including the outbreak of a fungal disease that is killing millions of bats. Read more at our Nature and Science page. More »

Outdoor Activities

Hikers trek past sandstone buttes in El Malpais.

Put the boot to the trail and experience the land of enchantment at El Malpais.

NPS

Experience a legendary land!

In El Malpais, you can take in as much or as little as time allows. Enjoy scenic driving on paved highways. Lock in the four wheel drive for backcountry roads. Wander our trails; everything from short easy walks to strenuous treks down ancient routes can be done here.

But there's more. Diverse plant and animal communities can be observed by the patient naturalist. Four seasons provide dramatic elements that change the landscape through the year.

Download our brochures to plan your next adventure!

Did You Know?

Bat on cave wall

Bats are the only mammals that fly. El Malpais National Monument is home to thirteen different species of bats. Pregnant Mexican Free-tailed bats join the resident bats during the summer months but leave once the pups are able to fly. More...