Hike the Narrows Rim Trail

Enjoy views of the young volcanic landscape of El Malpais from atop high sandstone cliffs.

NPS Photo

Enjoy spectacular views from this hike along Cretaceous-aged sandstone ramparts high above the young lava landscape of El Malpais National Monument. The expansive scenery of the lava flows and surrounding countryside ends with a distant view of the La Ventana Natural Arch. This moderate hike is 8 miles round trip and is dog friendly. Sweeping panoramic views over the McCartys Lava Flow can be had just a short distance (about 30 minutes or so) up this trail for those not wishing to do the entire hike. 

Details

Duration

1-6 Hours

Expect to take about 6 hours to hike the entirety of the trail out to the overlook of La Ventana Natural Arch. This hike can be shortened considerably if you just want to get a view of the lava flows. Good views take about 1/2 hour to reach from the parking area.

Activity

Hiking

The Narrows Rim Trail begins at the south end of the Narrows Picnic Area parking lot and traverses a small rock cleft. From here, it gradually ascends the ridge, providing spectacular panoramic views of the lava flows of El Malpais National Monuments. There are steep cliffs and drop offs and care should be taken around these. Most of this hike is very exposed and is often windy. Summer thunderstorms and steep cliffs can make this area dangerous. Most of this trail is fairly obvious, with some sections requiring route finding skills. The trail is about 8 miles out and back, although excellent views of the lava flows begin about 1 mile out on the trail.

Pets Allowed

Yes

Pets are allowed on this trail but must be leashed at all times. Please clean up after your pet!

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Narrows Rim Trail

To reach the Narrows Rim Trail, take exit 89 off Interstate 40 and travel south on Highway 117 about 23 miles. The trail starts at the south end of the Narrows Picnic Area in the Bureau of Land Management’s El Malpais National Conservation Area. There is a sign at the trailhead. 

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Summer thunderstorms, high winds and lightening can make this area dangerous. Winter snows can make this trail icy and hard to find.  

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

This trail is rocky and uneven. The beginning of the trail requires large steps up onto the sandstone bluff. The trail is sometimes difficult to find. Once at the top of the bluff, the trail is mostly flat.