El Malpais National Conservation Area

"Beautiful beyond belief and so much to see in this area. The sandstone bluffs came highly recommended by the locals and certainly didn't disappoint! The heights we're dizzying and the view was magnificent. The history of the area and it's significance of the indigenous population of several tribes was interesting to experience and explore. Highly recommend making this a priority and must see."

"This place is a total beauty. Quiet and off i40. The drive around is nice and pleasant. Lots to see and insure you give yourself atleast a day to check it out. Highly encourage you to check this place out and as always keep clean and have a fun peaceful time."

"Rock formations are breathtaking! Lava beds all over the place. This is a must see place to see when in the area. There is a picnic area halfway through the route. We saw deer, elk and a rare Mexican Gray wolf. What a treat! These pictures were taken in the beginning of Spring, mid April. We will be back to this place and explore its beauty."

"A very interesting place. The lava flow from this shield volcano was quite high. I liked being able to walk on the lava and see all the interesting plants and trees that have taken root in it. Their are many types of flowering plants. You can see the regrowth of the trees nearby that had been damaged. I wish the trail had markers to follow. I didn't see any. The information marker says the trail is 1.1 miles. Have good tennishoes or hiking boots for the trail. It can be a little rough. Their is a restroom by the parking lot with a pit toilet. Their are two picnic tables with grills. Their is no shade. The road in is a little steep but I saw trucks with long campers, etc. The road is gravel which seems to be only one lane. I passed a small car. I wish it were bigger. Note: Really long campers may have some difficulty turning around in the parking lot. The length is maybe the size of a really long camper and truck but the width is the size of a medium to small camper and truck."

"Lovely sandstone formations - the arch is amazing. They apparently don't want people hiking on the old trail that runs through the brush below the cliff face - no trail markings, and the metal railing barrier sends the message (though it's easy enough to slip between the bars). I was disappointed that the ranger station down the road a few miles was closed. It's only open on weekends."