Follow Ancient Footpaths on the Zuni-Acoma Trail
El Malpais National Monument
Hike across a historic trail that connects the pueblos of Acoma and Zuni. This strenuous 7.5 mile hike is an El Malpais classic hike.
Hike a historic trail across the lava flows of El Malpais. The Zuni-Acoma trail is an ancient trail used by Puebloans, Navajo, Spanish and American explorers, and other travelers to journey between the pueblos of Zuni and Acoma. It is a very strenuous 7.5 mile one-way hike (a car shuttle is recommended) and follows a cairned route most of the way. This classic El Malpais hike is part of the 3,100 mile long Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. You can sample short parts of the Zuni-Acoma trail from either trailhead if you aren’t up for the entire hike. Due to its strenuous nature, this hike best done in the cooler months and is not recommended for pets due to the jagged rock of the lava flow. The Zuni-Acoma trail is accessible from either Highway 117 or Highway 53. The Highway 53 Trailhead has vault toilets and picnic tables.
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2-8 Hours
Hiking one way across the entire trail may take 8 hours or more due to its rugged nature. Out and back hikes may take as long as you feel comfortable hiking.
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Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Day, Dawn, Dusk
This Zuni-Acoma trail crosses several major lava flows. The trail is a route across the lava marked by cairns. The lava surface is very sharp and uneven. In many places, the route crosses deep crevasses that must be stepped across.
Yes — Pets are not recommended on this hike due to the sharp, jagged lava rock making up most of the trail.
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