Getting Around

A Route 66 traveler visits El Malpais.

NPS photo by Rick Best

Exploring the region by vehicle can be done on paved highways or rugged backcountry dirt roads.

Travelers leaving the pavement are advised to get up-to-date road information and weather reports from the visitor center before heading out.

The El Calderon Trailhead road and Sandstone Bluffs road are generally passable to all vehicles. Four-wheel-drive and high clearance are recommended for other park backcountry roads, such as when driving to the Big Tubes area.

 

Highway 53 Attractions:

• Zuni Canyon Road (USDA Forest Service)

• Zuni-Acoma Trailhead

• Bonita Canyon (USDA Forest Service)

• El Calderon Area Trailhead

• Continental Divide Trail (CDT)

• Bandera Volcano and Ice Cave (Private Business)

• County Road 42, Chain of Craters Scenic Byway north entrance

Highway 117 Attractions:

• El Malpais Ranger Station (BLM)

• Sandstone Bluffs

• Acoma-Zuni Trailhead

• Continental Divide Trail (CDT)

• La Ventana Arch (BLM)

• South Narrows picnic area (BLM)

• Lava Falls Trailhead

• County Road 42, Chain of Craters Scenic Byway south entrance

 

Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway

County Road 42 is also known as the "Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway." This road travels along the western boundary of the park in the National Conservation Area. The byway's name comes from a visible line of cinder cones volcanoes along the drive.

This road provides access to the Big Tubes area and a segment of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail from both the north and south. It is lightly maintained road and can become impassable after heavy rain or snow. A four-wheel drive, high-clearance vehicle is recommended if using this route.

Always ask a ranger about road conditions before your trip. 

 

Other Things to Do