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All programs are free and do not require reservations. Outdoor programs are weather dependent.
Cholla cactuses produce vibrant pink flowers.
NPS Photo
Labor Day Weekend Programs
BLM Presents: Constellation Exploration Astronomy Program
Friday, September 4
8:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Location: La Ventana Natural Arch Parking Lot, located 25 miles south of Grants on Highway 117. From exit 89 on Interstate 40, head south on Highway 117, and turn at mile marker 39.
Join the Bureau of Land Management for a night of stargazing at El Malpais National Conservation Area. During this special program, experience the beauty of the night sky as you explore constellations and other celestial wonders. A Dobsonian telescope will also be available for even better views of the stars and night sky.
If cloudy skies prevent stargazing, weather-dependent alternate programming will be held. In that event, participants will explore and observe the wildlife that come alive after dark. Black lights will be provided, but participants should bring a flashlight.
Regardless of the programming, all visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water. Registration is not required for this free, family friendly event.
Cactus Curiosities Guided Hike
Saturday, September 5
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Lava Falls Trailhead, 36 miles south of Grants on Highway 117. From exit 89 on Interstate 40, head south on Highway 117, and turn just past mile marker 28.
Get to know some members of the family Cactaceae who live at El Malpais National Monument. Discover the awesome diversity of shapes, colors, and adaptations of these charismatic icons of the Southwest. What does tuna have to do with cactuses? Come and find out.
This hike will span approximately 1.5 miles. Trails are generally exposed in El Malpais, so please plan accordingly and bring sun protection as well as plenty of water. Bring close-toed shoes to prevent injuries from prickly plants.
Zuni-Acoma Trail Guided Hike
Sunday, September 6
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Zuni-Acoma West Trailhead, 17 miles south of Grants on Highway 53. From exit 81 on Interstate 40, head south on Highway 53, and turn just past mile marker 70. *Please note the Zuni-Acoma Trail has a second trailhead located on Highway 117. Be sure to go to the west (Highway 53) trailhead.
Take a guided hike with a ranger and discover the hidden life, diversity, and resilience thriving on the Twin Craters lava flow. The first part of the hike is through grassland along a dirt trail. Eventually, the trail turns into a cairn-marked route across rubbly lava flows with loose rocks. The guided portion of the hike will cover about the first 1.5 - 2 miles of the trail and return to the parking area along the same route. Bring comfortable hiking boots, weather appropriate clothing, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat.
Come see the camels from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm each day. El Morro is located on Highway 53, about a 50-minute drive from Grants.
Take a hike on the Lava Falls Trail.
NPS Photo
Recurring Programs
Zuni-Acoma Trail Guided Hike
Offered Sundays: August 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Zuni-Acoma West Trailhead, 17 miles south of Grants on Highway 53. From exit 81 on Interstate 40, head south on Highway 53, and turn just past mile marker 70. *Please note the Zuni-Acoma Trail has a second trailhead located on Highway 117. Be sure to go to the west (Highway 53) trailhead.
Take a guided hike with a ranger and discover the hidden life, diversity, and resilience thriving on the Twin Craters lava flow. The first part of the hike is through grassland along a dirt trail. Eventually, the trail turns into a cairn-marked route across rubbly lava flows with loose rocks. The guided portion of the hike will cover about the first 1.5 - 2 miles of the trail and return to the parking area along the same route. Bring comfortable hiking boots, weather appropriate clothing, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat.
August 30: This event coincides with Junior Ranger Day! Please bring your junior rangers and junior rangers to be. In the event that children attend this hike, it will be modified to incorporate more age-appropriate, hands-on activities.
