Hiking in the El Malpais' Natural Features Area
Details
Please don't sign up unless you are sure you will attend.
Painted Arch, Ventana Arch, Lava Falls and Sandstone Bluffs are the 4 beautiful spots we'll visit. Elevation gain about 100' total, with total hiking distance of less than 3 miles. There are restroom facilities there. Painted Arch (see link below for pics and details). we will hike and view as much as possible at Ventana before moving on to Lava Falls craters and then Sandstone Bluffs. These are very impressive formations. Driving distance one way is about 135 miles, mostly highway. The lava crater is too dangerous for dogs, so no dogs this trip, unless dogs have boots. Or you can wait for us at the bottom. Bring: hat
(no shade), sturdy boots, lunch or snack, and plenty of water. Weather looks good...high of 85, sunny & low winds (no rain). We'll be back around 5 pm. I scouted the area last Sunday, so I may have more info this week. Meet at LOWES home improvement at I-40 & 12th street at 8:15 am to carpool, leaving promptly at 8:30. Please be generous to your drivers; they make our outings possible. I'll be close to the street in my black SUV.
And here it is (more info): Painted arch area has been closed for "revitalization", but Ventana is still open to the public. NOTE: I've changed a few facts above. I've left the link intact to show what exists in this area.
www.dougscottart.com/hobbies/SlotCanyons/PaintedArch.htm
In every walk with nature one receives more than he asks.....
John Muir
