Place

Double Sinks

A deep pit of volcanic rock in the middle of a grassy field with shrubs and a forested ridge in the
The collapsed lava tubes of Double Sinks reach up to 80 feet deep!

NPS Molly Mays

Quick Facts
Location:
34.96651, -108.00471

The El Calderon trail passes precipitously between two deep pits called Double Sinks. These steep collapses are about 80 feet (24 m) deep and were formed where the roofs of lava tubes collapsed. They are home to owls, squirrels, and ferns. In fact, delicate ferns can be found in hidden, shady places throughout the lava flows of El Malpais where pockets of moisture are sheltered from drying summer heat and winds.

El Malpais National Monument

Last updated: April 16, 2022