Amazing scenery. Spectacular views and highly recommend. Definitely worth a visit. Had a wonderful time exploring this park. Daydream821715的完整评论
2024年5月12日
Did the tail in El Calderon. Trail was NOT well marked at times when you get to back (near the cinder cone). On way back, walked on dirt road. Some scenery but overall, not a lot to see based on l… jeff77664的完整评论
2024年4月17日
The road to many hikes is off exit 89 off Interstate 40. We hiked on Narrows Trail, which was beautiful. We also recommend a stop at Visitor Center off exit 85. Excellent short video that explains t… Ed S的完整评论
It's not a clear cut answer from visiting the website(s) and you should probably call. El Malpais is divided between NPS and BLM so there may be different rules in the two areas.
My girlfriend and I will be road-tripping from NM to AZ next week and hitting NPS sites along the way. We've currently only got a couple hours budgeted to El Malpais NM. Any recommendations on what to do for 3 hours? Should we adjust our plans to stay longer? Really want to make sure we experience the true beauty of the park. Thanks!
答:
In my opinion, with only 3 hours, I would do the following. First, take Exit 85 of Route 40 to the Northwest New Mexico visitors center. Review the exhibits, talk with a ranger and get a …
In my opinion, with only 3 hours, I would do the following. First, take Exit 85 of Route 40 to the Northwest New Mexico visitors center. Review the exhibits, talk with a ranger and get a map of the Monument to determine where you would like to drive and hike. After leaving the visitors center, get back onto Route 40 and drive to exit 89, where you begin a drive through this part of the Monument. The goal is to drive to Sandstone Bluffs Overlook, La Ventana Natural Arch, and Lava Falls. The first stop is Sandstone Bluffs Overlook which gives you an incredible view of the bluffs and the distant scenery. We walked around the area for awhile to soak in the views and take pictures. If you have food, there are picnic tables and restrooms. The second stop is La Ventana Natural Arch. It is impressive from the road. There is a cement walkway up to the Arch but you have to climb through the fence and climb up to get a picture with blue sky under the Arch. You have to be in good physical shape to make the climb but it is worth the effort. The third stop is the Lava Falls area where you can go on a short hike. However, the lava is uneven so be very careful. Also, the trail is marked by lava stones stacked so you have to pay attention. Again, the scenery is outstanding and it is amazing to see how many plants grow up through the lava rock. This can be done in 3 hours, if you do not spend too much time at each location. You might have to cut your lava hike short, depending upon your physical condition.
Although these features are within the monument's legislated boundary, they are privately owned and operated. Visit www.icecaves.com for more information on this area.