Last updated: September 30, 2022
Place
El Malpais National Monument Visitor Center
NPS photo
Quick Facts
Location:
1900 E. Santa Fe Ave. Grants, NM 87020
Significance:
Visitor Center
Amenities
29 listed
Automated External Defibrillator (AED), Baby Changing Station, Benches/Seating, Bicycle - Rack, Braille, Captioned Media, Cellular Signal, First Aid/Medical Care Available, Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Information - Maps Available, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Picnic Table, Recycling, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Restroom - Family, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Theater/Auditorium, Toilet - Flush, Trailhead, Trash Dumpster, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Water - Bottle-Filling Station, Water - Drinking/Potable
Start your journey at the El Malpais Visitor Center located just south of I-40 at Exit 85. The visitor center is open daily throughout the summer from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Winter hours may vary. The visitor center is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Check current visitor center hours before you plan to visit.
Parking spots are available at the visitor center for RV's and oversize vehicles. Overnight parking is prohibited, and the parking lot closes nightly at 5:00 pm.
A shaded picnic area next to the front entrance is the perfect place to relax and have a picnic lunch. You can also stretch your legs on a short, 0.5-mile hiking trail that starts just off from the parking area. Pets are permitted on the trail and must be on a leash and under control at all times.
Come inside and plan your El Malpais adventure with a helpful ranger. View exhibits about northwest New Mexico and take in the wonderful views over El Malpais from the viewing window.
Our 60-seat theater offers on-request showings of the award winning film, "Remembered Earth," a 27-minute documentary that summarizes the high desert legacy of northwest New Mexico.
The Western National Parks Association bookstore offers collectables, books, gifts, and more! All purchases help support the park.
Are you visiting while the visitor center is closed? There's still plenty to do at El Malpais! All park trails and overlooks outside the visitor center area are open 24/7 with the exception of Sandstone Bluffs overlook which is open from sunrise to sunset. Start your journey into El Malpais by traveling down Highway 117 at I-40 exit 89 or Highway 53 at I-40 exit 81.