Geology
Cibola County, NM
Approximate location — plotted from published sources, not a site visit, and not a guarantee of access.
NPS day-use trailhead on El Malpais National Monument’s Bandera lava flow: cairned figure-8 route (~2 mi) across rough ‘a‘ā to lava bridges, collapsed tubes, Big Skylight, and Giant Ice Cave entrances. Free caving permits required to enter tubes; surface hike alone showcases classic Malpais volcanics.
| Region | Cibola County, NM |
|---|---|
| Coordinates (approx.) | 34.9446, -108.1069 |
| Trail | ~2 mi cairned figure-8 (strenuous lava) |
| Features | Lava bridges, Big Skylight, Giant Ice Cave |
| Access | CR 42 + NPS 300 (high-clearance / 4WD recommended) |
| Fee | Free monument entry; free cave permit for tube entry |
| Managing agency | National Park Service (El Malpais NM) |
Public recreation data — BLM & Recreation.gov (RIDB). Verify current access, fees, and seasonal closures before traveling.
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Plan ahead. Leave no trace. Verify current access before traveling.