El Malpais National Monument
Trailie
Build your El Malpais itinerary
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El Malpais at a glance
- Best time
- March–May, October–November
- Trip length
- 1–2 days
- Don't miss
- Hike the El Calderon Trail
- Nearby city
- Grants, NM
Explore this park
Alerts(4)
NPS 300 Road Conditions
NPS detailsNPS 300 to Big Tubes has not been evaluated since the most recent rainstorms. A high clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.
El Calderon Trail closed for construction through September 2026
NPS detailsThe El Calderon Trail and parking area are closed from August 11, 2025, through September 19, 2026, for a major improvement project. NPS Road 100 will remain open for local traffic only, and the Continental Divide Trail will remain open for CDT thru-hikers.
Road work at El Malpais Visitor Center
Repaving of the El Malpais Visitor Center parking lot will occur in July. The visitor center will remain open, but slight delays are possible. Please follow construction signage and directions.
Visitor center bookstore closed August 26 for inventory
NPS detailsThe Western National Parks (WNP) bookstore at the El Malpais Visitor Center will be closed for annual inventory on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. The rest of the visitor center will be open as usual from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. You can shop your western national parks online at the link below. Thank you for your understanding!
Common questions
Planning El Malpais National Monument
The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics — check Alerts for live updates.
Reservation rules vary by season and activity for El Malpais. See Overview on this page for fees, timed entry, and campground details before you travel.
