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123 E Roosevelt, PO Box 939, Grants, NM 87020-0939
Phone: 505-783-4774
Fax: 505-285-5661
Open All Year
Overview. The Spanish took one look at this striking volcanic landscape and christened it El Malpais, or "badlands." Lava flows and spatter cones dot the region, which includes one of the most extensive lava tube systems in North America. The natives of the region revere it as a sacred place, and many ruins are preserved within the monument. An ancient trading trail, built by early Pueblo Indians, runs between Zuni and Acoma regions. One of New Mexico's largest free-standing natural arches, named La Ventana ("The Window"), lies within El Malpais National Conservation Area.
What to see and do. Begin by stopping by the visitor center 23 miles south of Grants on NM 53 for information about the monument and maps of the area. Once you get to El Malpais, you can view the strange and beautiful landscape along one of the scenic drives, or go right into the badlands on foot. Keep watch for bobcats, black bears, deer, antelope, eagles, and the many other species of wildlife that inhabit these badlands. Primitive camping is allowed. Take advantage of guided hikes. Check with the visitor center for details.
The visitor center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Information is also available from a ranger station located nine miles south of I-40 on NM 117.
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Please call ahead to confirm details. We do our best to give you current information, but facts can change. Please let us know if you find something's changed.
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