Hike Narrows Rim Trail, El Malpais National Conservation Area, New Mexico

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Within the El Malpais National Conservation Area lies the Narrows. It is named for the 3-mile narrow corridor that developed when lava flowed close to the base of a 500-foot sandstone mesa. Most of the lava observed is from McCarty’s crater, and at approximately 1500 years old, it is the youngest flow in the area. The trailhead and parking area for the Narrows Rim Trail are located at the south end of the Narrows Picnic Area, which is 21 miles south of I-40 on NM 117. The trail is approximately 4 miles (8 miles round trip) along the rim of the mesa. Narrows Rim Trail gives hikers the opportunity to witness geologic processes, thousands of years apart. Stroll along the ancient mesa top and view the much younger lava flows below. This remarkable scenery of the lava beds and surrounding countryside ends with a picturesque view of La Ventana Natural Arch. Source: BLM

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