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All programs are free and do not require reservations. Outdoor programs are weather dependent.
Go for a hike on the El Calderon Trail!
El Calderon Guided Hike
Sunday, August 3 at 10:00 am
Join a park ranger at the El Calderon Trailhead to learn about El Malpais' oldest lava flow! Discover how volcanic features developed, the many forms of life found on lava flows, and how both humans and animals have benefitted from this geology. See lava tube caves, beautiful grasslands, old forests, and a cinder cone volcano along this 3-mile guided hike.
El Calderon is a moderately difficult trail with an elevation gain of approximately 300 feet. Most of the trail is gravel with some short stretches of cinder and lava rock. The guided hike will be 3 miles, with an optional 4.5-mile loop available after the guided portion of the hike finishes. Be sure to bring water, snacks, sun protection, and comfortable hiking shoes.
The El Calderon Trailhead is located off of Highway 53, around 22 miles south of Grants. This program is free and weather dependent.
Ranger-led Bat Outflight Programs
Upcoming Dates
August 1 & 2 at 7:15 pm
August 8 & 9 at 7:00 pm
Join a park ranger on a guided hike to see bats emerge from the Bat Cave at El Calderon. Bat Outflight hikes will kick off on June 20 & 21 at 7:30 pm each evening. All bat programs meet at the El Calderon parking area off NM Highway 53, about 20 miles south of Grants.
Hikes will begin around 45-60 minutes prior to sunset. Start times may vary slightly from week to week as the sunset time changes. This program includes hiking an easy, 2-mile round-trip trail that is graveled and wide in most spots but does get narrow as it follows a deep drop off near a lava tube cave. Please bring plenty of water, snacks, and a source of light that is not a phone, preferably a red light. It will be dark when returning to the parking area. Wear layered clothing as weather can change unpredictably, especially after the sun goes down. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Hikes are weather dependent.
