El Malpais National Conservation Area

Two state highways provide access to the NCA from I-40. Exit 89 (east of Grants) takes you along NM Highway 117, providing access to the BLM Ranger Station, several developed recreation sites, and Cebolla Wilderness. Exit 81 (west of Grants) takes you along NM Highway 53, providing access to Continental Divide Trail trailheads, West Malpais Wilderness, Hole-in-the-Wall trailhead, and El Calderon (National Park Service). **BLM Ranger Station** Located 9 miles south of I-40 Exit 89 on NM Highway 117. 906 NM-117, Grants, NM 87020. The above GPS coordinates correspond to this location. (505) 280-2918 **El Malpais National Monument Visitor Center (National Park Service)** 1900 E Santa Fe Ave. Grants, New Mexico 87020. (505) 876-2783. **Continental Divide National Scenic Trail** From NM Highway 53: Drive southwest from NM Highway 53 to County Road (CR) 42. Turn south on CR 42 and continue approximately 5 miles to the trailhead. Parking is available at the trailhead, and the trail is marked with a rock cairn across from the parking area. From NM Highway 117: Drive south on Highway 117 until you reach CR 42. Continue approximately 9 miles on CR 42 to the trailhead. Parking is available at the trailhead, and the trail is marked with a rock cairn adjacent to the parking area. **Dittert Site** To reach the Dittert Site, drive south on NM Highway 117 for 22.6 miles until you reach CR 41, also known as Pietown Road. Head south on CR 41 for approximately 3.7 miles until you see the Armijo Canyon sign on the east side of the road. Turn left and continue approximately 1.5 miles to the parking area and trailhead. Weather Notice: CR 41 and the road leading to Armijo Canyon may become impassable when wet. Check weather conditions before heading out. **Hole-in-the-Wall** Drive south on NM 117 until you reach CR 42, also known as Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway. Turn onto CR 42 and proceed northwest for approximately 2.1 miles to a fork in the road. Take a right and continue north for approximately 5 miles to the trailhead. Weather Notice:**** CR 42 is a dirt road and becomes impassable when wet. Check weather conditions before heading out.

14 Days