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Review:
El Malpais National Monument is a gorgeous national monument in western New Mexico, named for the Spanish term malpaís, which translates to "badlands." The park, which is located along the Trails of the Ancients Byway, showcases features of the Zuni-Bandera volcanic field, one of the American Southwest's largest volcanic fields. Since 1987, the region has been overseen by the National Park Service, under joint supervision with the nearby El Morro National Monument. Visitors can explore the park's unique lava tube and cavern features, which are accessible with free caving permits offered from the park's visitor center. A stunning overlook vista at Sandstone Bluffs also offers beautiful panoramic views of the region's lava flows. Two visitor centers at the park showcase natural history exhibits and showings of documentary films on the region's ecology.
El Malpais National Monument, 11000 Ice Cave Rd, Grants, NM 87020, Phone: 505-876-2783
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