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.
Field facts
| Region | Cibola County, NM |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 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) |
Nearby locations
Nearby amenities
- Rec areaChain of Craters Backcountry Byway6.6 km away
- Rec areaEl Malpais Wilderness Study Area8.9 km away
- Rec areaEl Malpais National Monument12.2 km away
- Rec areaWest Malpais Wilderness Area15.7 km away
- Rec areaChain of Craters Wilderness Study Area16 km away
- TrailheadHole In The Wall Trailhead18.2 km away
Public recreation data — BLM & Recreation.gov (RIDB). Verify current access, fees, and seasonal closures before traveling.
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