While New Mexico’s natural beauty is jaw-dropping, it can also be rugged and unforgiving. Such is the case with the Malpais Lava Flow, which occurred thousands of years ago in the area that’s now the Valley of Fires Recreation Area. The lava flow and its surrounding landscape are incredible sights to see, but the lava can be both slippery, and very sharp. To safely see this natural wonder, take the Valley of Fires Nature Trail.
The Valley of Fires Recreation area is located in south-central New Mexico, and if you’ve never explored this place, you’ll want to put it on your bucket list.
hottoddy1988/Tripadvisor The area includes some of the Malpais Lava Flow, which covers 125 square miles in the Tularosa Basin.
This landscape looks rugged and barren, but once you see it up close, you’ll find that it’s teeming with life. You’ll also be fascinated by the lava flow formations in the basin.
Jean-Claude Linossi/Alltrails
Take the one-mile-long Malpais Nature Trail to immerse yourself in the beauty of this place. Before you head out, you’ll want to have sunscreen, a hat, some comfortable walking shoes, and plenty of water.
bfisher003/Tripadvisor
The nature trail is a combination of paved surface and boardwalk, and it’s fully accessible. The Bureau of Land Management has a guide brochure that includes information about the lava flow and 14 points of interest along the way.
MandMGeiger/Alltrails Click here for the brochure.
Along the way, you’ll stroll past interesting lava formations…
Becky Yu/Alltrails
…and several rest stops. You might be surprised to see a large variety of cactus, sage, and junipers here too. One of the juniper trees here is at least 400 years old!
Jack Tatsch/Alltrails
In fact, many of the plants you’ll see here are unique to New Mexico. Some of them put their roots right down into the cracks in the lava, carving their existence in a spot you might not think is habitable for living things.
MilesTwoGo/Tripadvisor
Many animals call this basin home, and if you pay close attention, you’re certain to see some wildlife.
mg44berlin/Tripadvisor Watch for lizards scurrying across the trail, and cottontail rabbits hiding amongst the plants. Look above you to see all kinds of birds, from tiny cactus wrens to golden eagles.
Allow yourself 60-90 minutes to walk this loop trail. You’ll definitely want to have your camera along to capture this stunning scenery.
Lynn R/Tripadvisor If you want to see lots of wildlife, visit in the early morning or evening, when the weather is a little cooler and the animals move around more.
Visit the Bureau of Land Management’s website for more information. Have you visited the Valley of Fires Recreation Area? Tell our readers about your trip in the comments.
hottoddy1988/Tripadvisor
The area includes some of the Malpais Lava Flow, which covers 125 square miles in the Tularosa Basin.
Jean-Claude Linossi/Alltrails
bfisher003/Tripadvisor
MandMGeiger/Alltrails
Click here for the brochure.
Becky Yu/Alltrails
Jack Tatsch/Alltrails
MilesTwoGo/Tripadvisor
mg44berlin/Tripadvisor
Watch for lizards scurrying across the trail, and cottontail rabbits hiding amongst the plants. Look above you to see all kinds of birds, from tiny cactus wrens to golden eagles.
Lynn R/Tripadvisor
If you want to see lots of wildlife, visit in the early morning or evening, when the weather is a little cooler and the animals move around more.
If you’re looking for more beautiful places to visit in New Mexico, you’ll want to check out this hidden beach with clear waters that rival the Caribbean.
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