El Malpais (the badlands) is a national monument south of Grants, New Mexico. The entire area is consumed by lava fields dating back to as recent as 2,000-3,000 years ago. There are several hiking paths and scenic overlooks to drive to. Two of the four outlooks are gravel roads though, so if you're on your motorcycle, just be warned.

In addition to the lava fields, there is a lot of worn sandstone, one giant piece which forms a huge arch. There are also giant sandstone cliffs that have eroded into cool shapes that you can see from the road.

If you plan on doing any hiking, just be sure to bring some good hiking shoes. The lava fields are pretty rough, so make sure they're in good shape.

Aside from all the interstate driving, once you get to 117, it's pretty empty and the roads have some nice curves. I would suggest fueling up in Acoma or the Exit 89 Shell station before heading down into the monument, as there's about 50-60 miles or riding back there.

I stopped at a scenic overlook in Laguna off the interstate and snapped a few pictures there of the old pueblo.

Ride Characteristics

Curvy Roads: Some	Gas Stations: Average	Restrooms: Average
Food: Average	Scenic Areas: Frequent	Elevation Change: Average
Off Road: Some	Traffic: Average	Animal Crossings: Average
Hotels: Some

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