El Malpais National Monument and National Conservation Area

La Ventana ArchSouth of Interstate 40 near the city of Grants is El Malpais National Monument and National Conservation Area. El Malpais, which translates to “badlands” in Spanish, is comprised of 376,000 acres and includes canyons, dramatic sandstone cliffs, the Chain of Craters Back Country Byway, La Ventana Natural Arch, Narrows Picnic Area, Chacoan Archeological Site, Perpetual Ice Caves, and other natural and cultural resources. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail passes through the area along with one extended trail (Zuni-Acoma Trail), three short loop trails, and several overlooks. Click below to learn more.