CancelYes
El Malpais National Conservation Area in San Mateo | Map and Routes
Bare rock
4.2 (2 ratings)
El Malpais National Conservation Area in San Mateo offers an extraordinary landscape for walking and hiking enthusiasts. With its sprawling 262,151.5 acres of rugged terrain, this park is a haven ...
El Malpais National Conservation Area in San Mateo offers an extraordinary landscape for walking and hiking enthusiasts. With its sprawling 262,151.5 acres of rugged terrain, this park is a haven for those seeking outdoor activity. The park features a variety of trails, including the Continental Divide Trail and the CDT, offering options for hikers of all levels. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, El Malpais National Conservation Area provides the ideal setting for your walking and hiking adventures. In addition to its vast expanse, El Malpais National Conservation Area boasts a diverse range of routes that cater to different preferences and abilities. From the 5.9-mile Continental Divide Trail to the 54.6-mile CDT, there are options for both short outings and more ambitious expeditions. The park's well-maintained trails and stunning natural features make it a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about outdoor activity. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out, you'll find the perfect route to explore and enjoy at El Malpais National Conservation Area. For walkers and hikers looking to make the most of their outdoor excursions, El Malpais National Conservation Area in San Mateo is a true paradise. With its extensive acreage, diverse trail options, and breathtaking landscapes, this park offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. To discover more about the park's routes and get detailed information for your walking and hiking activities, be sure to download Pacer Pedometer. Get ready to embark on unforgettable journeys amidst the natural splendor of El Malpais National Conservation Area.
View MoreView MoreSan Mateo, NM 87020, USA34.8017° N , -107.9973° W
Directions
Open in App for Detail
Overview
Check-in
Routes
Walking and Hiking in El Malpais National Conservation Area
Are you ready to experience the natural beauty and adventure of El Malpais National Conservation Area in San Mateo? This stunning park offers a wide range of opportunities for walking and hiking enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. With essential amenities such as parking lots, restrooms, and picnic ...
Are you ready to experience the natural beauty and adventure of El Malpais National Conservation Area in San Mateo? This stunning park offers a wide range of opportunities for walking and hiking enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. With essential amenities such as parking lots, restrooms, and picnic sites, visitors can comfortably prepare for their outdoor activities and take in the breathtaking views. From the impressive Narrows Picnic Area to the iconic La Ventana Natural Arch and the informative exhibits at the El Malpais Visitor Center, there are plenty of exciting things to see and experience during your walking or hiking adventure. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, El Malpais National Conservation Area has something for everyone. Embrace the beauty of nature and embark on a memorable walking or hiking journey in this remarkable park.
View MoreView MoreEssential Amenities in El Malpais National Conservation Area
Things to See in El Malpais National Conservation Area
Attraction
Narrows Picnic Area
Attraction
La Ventana Natural Arch
Attraction
El Malpais Visitor Center
Viewpoint
La Ventana Arch Viewpoint
Museum
Malpais National Monument Visitor Center and Exhibits
Best Walking Routes in El Malpais National Conservation Area
#1 - CDT jkg
1
Length: 54.6 milesEst. Time: 15h48m
CDT jkg is a 54.6 mile (125,000-step) route located near Grants, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 1226.7 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#2 - Continental Divide Trail
1
Length: 5.9 milesEst. Time: 1h10m
Continental Divide Trail is a 5.9 mile (13,000-step) route located near Grants, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 13.1 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#3 - Cdt
1
Length: 28.8 milesEst. Time: 8h10m
Cdt is a 28.8 mile (66,000-step) route located near Grants, New Mexico. This route has an elevation gain of about 905.3 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
See All Routes
See All Routes
El Malpais National Conservation Area Leaderboard
RankingCheck-ins
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
FAQs About El Malpais National Conservation Area
Where is the best place to walk in El Malpais National Conservation Area?
The best place to walk in El Malpais National Conservation Area is along the Continental Divide Trail (CDT jkg), which is rated 4.0 and spans 54.6 miles. This route is highly recommended by the Pacer community for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain.
How many routes are in El Malpais National Conservation Area?
There are three routes in El Malpais National Conservation Area. These include CDT jkg, Continental Divide Trail, and Cdt. Each route offers unique experiences and challenges for walkers and hikers.
Which is the longest route in El Malpais National Conservation Area?
The longest route in El Malpais National Conservation Area is CDT jkg, which spans 54.6 miles. This route provides an extensive and rewarding hiking experience, with diverse landscapes and natural features to explore. It is highly recommended by the Pacer community for enthusiasts seeking a long-distance hiking adventure.
Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in El Malpais National Conservation Area?
Yes, there are several amenities for walkers and hikers in El Malpais National Conservation Area, including multiple parking lots, restrooms, and picnic sites. These amenities provide convenience and comfort for visitors exploring the park on foot.
How accessible is El Malpais National Conservation Area?
El Malpais National Conservation Area is accessible with designated parking lots, making it convenient for visitors to access the park. The amenities such as restrooms and picnic sites are also accessible for walkers and hikers, enhancing the overall experience.
What kind of sports can I do in El Malpais National Conservation Area?
While the park is known for its walking and hiking opportunities, visitors can also engage in activities such as nature walking, bird watching, and photography. The diverse landscapes and attractions within the park provide an ideal environment for various outdoor activities.
What is the best season to walk in El Malpais National Conservation Area?
The best season to walk in El Malpais National Conservation Area is spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities.
What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in El Malpais National Conservation Area?
El Malpais National Conservation Area experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Visitors should prepare for hot and dry conditions in summer with temperatures reaching above 90°F (32°C) and cold, windy conditions in winter with temperatures dropping below freezing.
What kind of wildlife might you encounter in El Malpais National Conservation Area?
Visitors to El Malpais National Conservation Area may encounter wildlife such as mule deer, elk, coyotes, bobcats, and a variety of bird species. It's important to be respectful of the wildlife and maintain a safe distance while observing them in their natural habitat.
Last updated: Dec 1, 2024