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La Ventana Natural Arch

4.8
(340)
•
4.5
(98)
4.8
(340)
•
4.5
(98)
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Geologic Formations
Why you should go
    1
  1. Experience the awe-inspiring sight of a giant natural stone arch towering above you
  2. 2
  3. Enjoy a leisurely walk on a well-marked path with picnic areas along the way
  4. 3
  5. Bring your dog along for this pet-friendly attraction

Highlighted reviews

Slide 1 of 3
What a beautiful park and the arch was stunning! We didn’t even know about this location until we needed to find a place to pull over for the night lo and behold a beautiful national park was on our way. This is a gorgeous place for sure. The hike was ultra easy and the view very nice!
Clean, covered picnic areas and vault restrooms. The arch is visible from the parking area. Path is .5 mile, relatively flat, and graveled. The arch is beautiful! Worth taking a scenic off the highway to see it. The visitors center has limited days it is open so check online 1st.
Beautiful natural arch that you need to see in many different lighting and weather conditions to properly appreciate. The parking is ample and the viewing trail is short and easy. Would have given 5 stars but the bathrooms are pretty nasty even for pit toilets as it doesn't seem like they are ever cleaned or maintained other than occasionally restocking the toilet paper. These being the only public restrooms between Quemado and the gas station at I-40, they get considerable use and are often pretty disgusting, especially since they are used by folks who don't understand pit toilets and don't do the proper procedures to keep the smell down (1. ALWAYS CLOSE THE LID 2. Keep the door closed.)
What a beautiful park and the arch was stunning! We didn’t even know about this location until we needed to find a place to pull over for the night lo and behold a beautiful national park was on our way. This is a gorgeous place for sure. The hike was ultra easy and the view very nice!
Clean, covered picnic areas and vault restrooms. The arch is visible from the parking area. Path is .5 mile, relatively flat, and graveled. The arch is beautiful! Worth taking a scenic off the highway to see it. The visitors center has limited days it is open so check online 1st.
Beautiful natural arch that you need to see in many different lighting and weather conditions to properly appreciate. The parking is ample and the viewing trail is short and easy. Would have given 5 stars but the bathrooms are pretty nasty even for pit toilets as it doesn't seem like they are ever cleaned or maintained other than occasionally restocking the toilet paper. These being the only public restrooms between Quemado and the gas station at I-40, they get considerable use and are often pretty disgusting, especially since they are used by folks who don't understand pit toilets and don't do the proper procedures to keep the smell down (1. ALWAYS CLOSE THE LID 2. Keep the door closed.)
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Know before you go

  • Visit during off-peak hours like early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight for better pictures
  • Pack a picnic as there are designated areas with covered tables available
  • If visiting on days when visitor center is closed, ensure you have all necessary supplies beforehand as amenities may be limited
  • Be mindful of proper pit toilet etiquette by closing lids and doors to maintain cleanliness
Map
Address
El Malpais Ranger Station (BLM),, NM-117, Grants, NM 87020, USA
Website
https://www.blm.gov/visit/el-malpais-nca
El Malpais Ranger Station (BLM),, NM-117, Grants, NM 87020, USA
https://www.blm.gov/visit/el-malpais-nca

Reviews

La Ventana Natural Arch is a stunning natural formation that captivates visitors with its grandeur and accessibility. Reviewers highlight the concrete paved path leading to the arch, picnic areas, clean bathroom facilities, and wheelchair accessibility. Visitors appreciate the short walk to witness this giant arch made of natural stone towering above them. While some lament not being able to hike under the arch due to guardrails, they still find the place beautiful and enjoyable for picnics or taking in breathtaking views.
Review score
4.8
out of 5
Exceptional
340 reviews
From Google
Review score
4.5
out of 5
Wonderful
98 reviews
From Tripadvisor
5 stars
281
4 stars
51
3 stars
6
2 stars
1
1 star
1
5/5Aleksandr V
•
Mar 26, 2025 from
Google
What a beautiful park and the arch was stunning! We didn’t even know about this location until we needed to find a place to pull over for the night lo and behold a beautiful national park was on our way. This is a gorgeous place for sure. The hike was ultra easy and the view very nice!
5/5Danyelle W
•
Jun 11, 2025 from
Google
Clean, covered picnic areas and vault restrooms. The arch is visible from the parking area. Path is .5 mile, relatively flat, and graveled. The arch is beautiful! Worth taking a scenic off the highway to see it. The visitors center has limited days it is open so check online 1st.
4/5MIriam N
•
Apr 5, 2025 from
Google
Beautiful natural arch that you need to see in many different lighting and weather conditions to properly appreciate. The parking is ample and the viewing trail is short and easy. Would have given 5 stars but the bathrooms are pretty nasty even for pit toilets as it doesn't seem like they are ever cleaned or maintained other than occasionally restocking the toilet paper. These being the only public restrooms between Quemado and the gas station at I-40, they get considerable use and are often pretty disgusting, especially since they are used by folks who don't understand pit toilets and don't do the proper procedures to keep the smell down (1. ALWAYS CLOSE THE LID 2. Keep the door closed.)
4/5Michelle W
•
Sep 17, 2025 from
Google
Easy gravel trail with occasional shade. No place to sit if you need that. Impressive arch and monumental rock formations. We took our dogs, please take bags and clean up after your pet, too many piles of dog poop along the path left by irresponsible pet owners.
5/5Tim C
•
Mar 31, 2023 from
Google
Love the views here! I wish we could hike up under the arch, like we used to many years ago. But they have a guard rail, and they don't want foot traffic past it. But still it's a great little walk back to the arch from the parking area. Beautiful place!
All Google Maps reviews
All Tripadvisor reviews
Map
Address
El Malpais Ranger Station (BLM),, NM-117, Grants, NM 87020, USA
Website
https://www.blm.gov/visit/el-malpais-nca
El Malpais Ranger Station (BLM),, NM-117, Grants, NM 87020, USA
https://www.blm.gov/visit/el-malpais-nca
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Browser extension
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How to embed a map on your travel blog
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Google data disclosure
Trip planners by destination
Explore cities and countries
Road trips by destination
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Popular search terms by destination
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Maps of cities and national parks
Destinations at different times of the year
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Get the app
Get the iOS app from the App StoreGet the Android app from Google Play
Made with ❤ in SF & more
© 2025 Travelchime Inc.