In A Nutshell

Directions

By Plane
Major airlines serve Albuquerque, New Mexico, which is 72 miles east of the monument. Rental vehicles are available in Albuquerque and limited rentals are available in Grants, NM and Gallup, NM.

By Car
El Malpais is located south of Grants, NM. Two major state highways border the monument and conservation area and both are accessed via Interstate 40. Exit 89, east of Grants, will take you along NM 117 which forms the eastern boundary. BLM's El Malpais Ranger Station is located 9 miles south of this exit and is open Friday through Tuesday. Exit 85 at Grants will take you to the Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center, a multi-agency facility, located south of exit 85 and is open daily. Exit 81, west of Grants, will take you along NM 53 which forms the northwestern boundary. NPS's El Malpais Information Center is located 23 miles south of this exit. The Information Center is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

By Bus
Greyhound bus lines has limited service to Grants, NM.

Operating Hours, Seasons & FAQs

El Malpais National Monument and Conservation Area are always open to visitors except Sandstone Bluffs Overlook.  This area closes at dusk.

Depending on the season, access to backcountry areas may be difficult. Many of the dirt roads become impassable after summer rains or winter snowfall. Please contact one of our visitor centers for current road and trail information.  

Entry into all other caves requires a permit well in advance of your visit. Contact monument headquarters at (505)285-4641 for more information on obtaining permits.