The El Malpais National Monument Area preserves 376.000 acres of lava beds, spatter cones, ice caves and a 17 mile lava tube system. Within the conservation area are Anasazi ruins, two wilderness areas and La Ventana, a large free-standing natural arch. Recreational opportunities include camping, hiking, bicycling and horseback riding; free back-country camping permits are available at the ranger station. Note: Use heavy footgear and extreme care when walking on the sharp lava. The Spanish did not call the region "Mal pais"- bad country unjustly. El Malpais East Ranger Station, 9 mi. south on Hwy 117.
