El Malpais

Ranger Programs

Spring 2025 Programs

All programs are free and do not require reservations. Outdoor programs are weather dependent.
 
People walking along a gravel trail with a ranger. They are surrounded by grass and small evergreen trees.
Go for a hike on the El Calderon Trail!

Memorial Day Weekend Programs

Friday, May 23 - Stargazing at Sandstone Bluffs

9:00 - 10:30 pm
Stargaze with rangers, look through a telescope, and learn about the importance of dark night skies. Sandstone Bluffs Overlook is located 19 miles south of Grants on Highway 117. Once at the parking area, look for the red lights. Wear warm layers and close-toed shoes. Bring a flashlight or headlamp, preferably one with a red light setting, and a bottle of water. You are welcome to bring a chair or blanket to sit on.

Saturday, May 24 - Birdwatching Hike at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

9:00 - 11:00 am
Join some bird nerds to look and listen for our feathered friends. We'll learn about bird identification while enjoying a morning outdoors. Please dress in layers and bring water and snacks. Bring a pair of binoculars if possible, otherwise, some pairs will be available to borrow. This hike will meet at the parking lot at the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) off of Highway 53, around 24 miles south of Grants. This location is normally gated and closed to the public, so please wait for a park ranger to let you in.

Sunday, May 25 - Cinder Cone Hike at El Calderon

10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Join a park ranger at the El Calderon Trailhead to learn about El Malpais' oldest lava flow! See lava tube caves, beautiful grasslands, old forests, and a cinder cone volcano along this 3-mile guided hike. El Calderon is a moderately difficult trail with an elevation gain of approximately 300 feet. Most of the trail is gravel with some short stretches of cinder and lava rock. The guided hike will be 3 miles, with an optional 4.5-mile loop available after the guided portion of the hike finishes. The El Calderon Trailhead is located off of Highway 53, around 22 miles south of Grants. Be sure to bring water, sun protection, and comfortable hiking shoes.

Ranger-led Bat Outflight Programs will begin June 20, stay tuned for details!

 

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Last updated: May 16, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1900 E. Santa Fe Ave.
Grants, NM 87020

Phone:

505 876-2783

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