Event
Lava Falls Hike
Fee:
Free.Location: LAT/LONG: 34.736658, -107.975757
This guided hike meets at the Lava Falls Trailhead located 36 miles south of I-40 on NM Highway 117. From the El Malpais Visitor Center in Grants, NM, head east on I-40 towards Albuquerque to exit 89. At exit 89, head south on 117. Continue for 36 miles to the southern tip of the park. Turn off at the signs for the Lava Falls Trail and drive approximately 3/4 mile down a gravel road to the Lava Falls Trailhead. The gravel road may not be suitable for large RVs. Pit toilets, picnic tables, and trash cans are available at the trailhead.
Dates & Times
Date:
Time:
Duration:
Type of Event
This guided hike will take approximately 1 hour. The drive from the El Malpais Visitor Center to the Lava Falls Trailhead takes approximately 50 minutes.
Description
Join El Malpais National Monument park rangers on a guided hike across New Mexico's youngest lava flow! The Lava Falls Trail at the southern tip of El Malpais traverses the McCarty's flow along a cairn-marked route. Learn about the fascinating features of this young volcanic wilderness on this 1 mile hike.
Trail Description:
Lava Falls is a little different from traditional hiking trails found in many national parks. Instead of a gravel path, we will be following cairns along a marked route. While there are no big hills or steep topography along this trail, the ground surface is very uneven. You may have to step across deep cracks in the lava and walk over unsteady boulders. Sturdy hiking shoes are required for this trail.
What to Bring:
- Plenty of water & snacks
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Sunscreen/other appropriate sun protection
- (Optional) binoculars for better viewing of distant features and wildlife
More information
Reservation or Registration: No
Image Gallery
NPS Photo / John Kuehnert