General information about the National Monument

The National Monument protects part of the Zuni-Bandera volcanic field. The name El Malpais (bad land) becomes clear when you consider that practically the whole park consists of a huge lava flow.

Visitor number 2000
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Visitor number 2010
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Number of visitors

Best time to visit: Spring and fall.
Our visits:
So far 1 visit: September 2011

Visitor number 2020
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Visitor number 2023
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Altitude above sea level: El Malpais NM
6949 ft

Entrance fees and opening hours

*The Anual Pass is so to speak the "flat rate" for all Parks managed by the National Park Service. The pass costs a one-time fee of $80 and can be purchased at the entrance to each National Park, National Monument, etc. The pass is valid for 13 months.

Sandstone Bluffs Overlook
La Ventana Natural Arch

El Malpais NM

Description: El Malpais NM protects part of the Zuni-Bandera volcanic field. The name El Malpais (bad land) becomes clear when you consider that practically the whole park consists of a huge lava flow. The NM also has some lava caves that can be hiked and climbed. For this you need a permit, which you have to pick up at the Visitor Center. Everything about the hikes in the park can be found here. There are also a couple of trails, one of which crosses the lava field. There are no roads through the lava field. The park roads pass by the field with some viewpoints.

Another highlight in the park is the La Ventana Natural Arch. It is a huge stone arch with a span of 135ft. It is the second largest in New Mexico.

Our rating: It was quite interesting to take a visit this place. We always find it very impressive to look at such forces of nature. We liked to look over the huge lava field and we can definitely recommend a visit here.

3/5
View from La Ventana Arch
Sandstone Bluffs Overlook
La Ventana Natural Arch