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El Malpais National MonumentA panoramic view from Sandstone Bluffs
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El Malpais National Monument
Plan Your Visit
A trail sign at Big Tubes

NPS

Where will you go at El Malpais? A hiker looks over the options at Big Tubes.

A Wild and Wonderful Land

El Malpais National Monument and National Conservation Area encompass over 350,000 acres. Whether you have an hour or a week, this area offers experiences that range from scenic drives and self-guided trails to remote wilderness exploration.

Whatever your choice, come prepared! You can download our brochures and plan your trip. Or stop at one of our visitor centers where staff can help you decide where to go next.
 

 

 

 

 

 

A lava moonscape in El Malpais  

Did You Know?
When people say that El Malpais lava country looks like a "moonscape" they aren't far from the truth. Much of the moon is covered with basalt lava flows which form the "maria" or lunar seas. Astronauts trained on lava flows in preparation for walking on the moon.
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Last Updated: September 11, 2009 at 18:14 EST