El Malpais National Monument
El Malpais National Monument is a rough and tumble stop just off of I-40 filled with volcanic domes, lava tubes, sandstone walls, arches, caves, archaeological ruins, hikes, lava fields, campgrounds, & more!
La Ventana Natural Arch, just off the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (117) in the Narrows is a massive arch that’s easily viewed from the roadside stop.
Lava tubes, natural bridges, and volcanic caves are easily walked to in the Big Tubes area where you can explore 10,000 year old lava flows. There’s even an ice cave with year round ice!
The Sandstone Bluffs Overlook is another great stop on your way to volcano adventures. Also be sure to spot the many peaks that trail off into the distances. The Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway takes your car through these 30 craters from 200,000 years ago.
There’s also a great camping spot at Joe Skeen Campground complete with 10 sites, toilets, and totally awesome sunsets.
