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El Malpais National MonumentThe wide open landscape near Cerro Encierro
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El Malpais National Monument
Things To Know Before You Come
 
A vehicle is stuck in the thick mud of County Road 42

NPS

Don't let this happen to you! Plan ahead and bring the right equipment and gear for your travels.

Touring El Malpais does require some preparation. Bring the right vehicle; if you plan on exploring the more remote sections of the park, a properly equipped four-wheel-drive vehicle with high clearance is suggested.

Your safety is your responsibility here as well. Given the long distances and difficult terrain, it can be a while before help can reach you. Bring the gear you'll need to have an enjoyable and safe trek.

La Vieja rock stand by itself in El Malpais  

Did You Know?
La Vieja seems to have the visage of an elderly woman carved into it. From certain vantage points in El Malpais, La Vieja appears to stand in the lava flows, and may be responsible for the legends of a mission church out on the malpais.
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Last Updated: September 25, 2009 at 17:43 EST