Acoma-Zuni West Trailhead

"Parking for plenty of vehicles. Bathroom available and picnic table. Trail starts by going over some lava rocks but then mostly dirt road. Not too difficult"

"Hiked here a couple of years ago. Was great! Here's some info from nps.gov: Are you looking for a challenge? If so, the Zuni-Acoma Trail could be the hike for you! This trail is about 7.5 miles, one-way, and crosses a lot of jagged lava flow areas as it goes from Highway 53 to Highway 117."

"I firmly believe this is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. The entirety of the trail will take you to worlds you've never imagined - sandy desert, cactus patches, alternate universes composed of miles of black rock formed from cooled lava, and all the way to forests and prairies. It's a strenuous hike if you're going all the way - pack hiking boots, more water than you think you'll need, and a strong sense of direction. Oh, and watch your footing, and never step away from a cairn without having the next one in sight. All in all, have your wits about you. It's not called the badlands for nothing. If you can heed all that advice, go and see this place. It is truly awe-inspiring."

"Hiked about 2 miles out from trailhead. Well maintained with some loose lava sections. Part of it is also the Continental Divide Trail."

"This is one of the most unique hiking experiences I've ever had. "Otherworldly" is not an exaggeration. I really enjoyed comparing this lava field to the much older Valles Caldera (New Mexico) and the much younger Chain of Craters (Hawaii). You'll want really good shoes because the trail surface is rarely level, often rough and sometimes sharp. Take precautions for heat, lack of water and general safety. The trail is marked by cairns (ahu in Hawaiian) and as often as not, the cairns are the only evidence of the trail. Be careful not to get lost as many volcanic features can look like cairns. This trail will take longer to hike than similar length trails."