When you’re in New Mexico, discovering spectacular scenery is always an adventure just around the corner. The best part? Plenty of these outings are easy excursions for everyone.
One such example: embarking on a short trek to see La Ventana Arch in New Mexico’s El Malpais National Monument.
Jason Corneveaux/Flickr Spanish for “window,” this is just one of many wonderful and unusual landmarks to see at the park. La Ventana is the second-largest natural arch in the state and is a striking sight both from the road and up close.
The parking lot and trailhead to the natural arch is located about nine miles south of the El Malpais Ranger Station along NM-117.
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Pull into the parking lot and you’ll be met with a paved path that is wide and easy to follow.
Todd Barton/Google The trail is just under a half-mile over and back, making this an easy journey for everyone in the family.
In a short time, you’ll reach a wooden fence that marks the end of the trail.
KarmaTraveler/Google Depending on the time of year you visit, you might find the area covered in snow or wildflowers. Either way, it’s a lovely view for anyone.
Have you seen this formation before?
Diana Robinson/Flickr
La Ventana Arch is part of El Malpais National Monument located near Grants, New Mexico.
Google Maps
The monument is accessible year-round and trailheads are open daily from sunrise to sunset. Fees and reservations are not required to visit. For additional details, visit the national monument’s website.
Jason Corneveaux/Flickr
Spanish for “window,” this is just one of many wonderful and unusual landmarks to see at the park. La Ventana is the second-largest natural arch in the state and is a striking sight both from the road and up close.
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Todd Barton/Google
The trail is just under a half-mile over and back, making this an easy journey for everyone in the family.
KarmaTraveler/Google
Depending on the time of year you visit, you might find the area covered in snow or wildflowers. Either way, it’s a lovely view for anyone.
Diana Robinson/Flickr
Google Maps
Website: National Park Service / El Malpais National Monument Phone: 505-876-2783
If you want to check out an easy hike that’s just a little more challenging, then we bet you will love trekking the Soledad Canyon Loop. Located in the foothills of the Organ Mountains near Las Cruces, this trail is just 3.4 miles and has impressive canyon views. Read more in Take An Easy Loop Trail To Enter Another World At Soledad Canyon In New Mexico.
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Address: NM-117, Grants, NM 87020, USA
