El Malpais National Monument Visitor Center - Visitor center in Grants - 1900 E Santa Fe Ave, USA

Fabulous visitor center! The Ranger on duty was very kind and helpful about trails in the area. There are some great maps of the area and other NPS sites. Also some great views from the back window. The bookstore at this visitor center has a great selection of books and gifts. Very well done.

Had a wonderful afternoon here. Loved the sandhill overlook and the Arch rock. We tried to do the lava falls hike but not marked well and I didn't want to get lost. If coming from the east I would recommend getting off at the highway before visitor center, driving that and then back to visitor center. Tried to camp but campground was full so get there early, we were there around 5:00 on a Friday night. Overall I had a wonderful experience, the rangers were nice and helpful.

Very friendly staff and knowledgeable, we arrived late on Saturday about 30 minutes to the center closing time. But the park rangers still explain the park since we just accidentally stumbled this one. They also gave us tips about how to visit the park with limited time especially daylight is getting short. If you have time, spend two days to fully explore this geologic wonder. Very different than Hawaii Big Island lava formation, worth your time to compare both if you have opportunities to visit both park.

El Malpais National Monument is a vast and rugged landscape of lava flows, cinder cones, and sandstone bluffs. It is located in western New Mexico, near the town of Grants. The park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including coyotes, bobcats, and mule deer. It is also a popular destination for hiking, camping, and rock climbing. The park was established in 1987 to protect the area's unique volcanic features. The Zuni, Acoma, and Laguna Pueblos have lived in the area for centuries, and their cultures are deeply rooted in the land. The park offers a variety of opportunities to learn about the history and culture of the region. One of the most popular activities at El Malpais is hiking. There are a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to strenuous. The park also has a number of backcountry camping areas. If you are looking for a more challenging experience, you can try rock climbing or backpacking. El Malpais is a beautiful and remote place. It is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. If you are looking for a place to hike, camp, or rock climb, El Malpais National Monument is a great option. Here are some additional information about El Malpais National Monument: Size: 114,276 acres (462.46 km2) Location: Cibola County, New Mexico Establishment: December 31, 1987 Management: National Park Service Activities: Hiking, camping, rock climbing, stargazing, birdwatching, photography

Beautiful scenery, views, and architecture. Well laid out building so you have panoramic views. There is a short 1/2 mike hike just past the RV parking. Rangers were very helpful as this is a HUGE park. Nice little shop with badges for the kids. Maps given out here. Good parking for autos as well as RVs with nice turn area in case your towing.

I really think this National Monument should have National Park status, it has everything: caverns, limestone bluffs, natural arches, lava flows, cinder mounts, mountains, and trails everywhere. The limestone bluffs and natural arch are unmissable. The roads are good and the visitor center in Grants is impeccable.

El Malpais National Monument visitor center is replete with interesting information about the area that makes up the park. This area is beautifully preserved and part of the national park service. There are many trails to hike and several camping sites that dot the area with beautiful scenic views. Be alert for natural plants and wildlife as you make your way into the park. The visitor center has well serviced bathrooms and friendly knowledgeable staff. There is also a small selection of souvenirs, books and maps.

It's a beautiful volcanic lava spot. It has clean facilities and a covered picnic pavilion to eat at. Also, it has hiking trails.