National Conservation Area · NM

Dogs in El Malpais National Conservation Area

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Dog-friendly

Leashed dogs are welcome in this New Mexico conservation area of sandstone bluffs and lava fields. Keep pets on a 6-foot leash with current tags and pack out waste.

The El Calderon trail and the short visitor center bluff trail are good leashed-dog hikes. Most other routes cross jagged lava that is hard on paws even with booties, so plan around the sandstone areas.

Where dogs are allowed

The El Calderon trail and the short visitor center bluff trail are good leashed-dog hikes. Most other routes cross jagged lava that is hard on paws even with booties, so plan around the sandstone areas.

Seasonal closures

Sharp lava rock is the main hazard for paws year-round. Summer sun on the black rock gets very hot, so hike early and carry water.

Leash rule

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, trailheads, and picnic sites. On most of the open BLM land there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times, and local field offices can set stricter rules.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
Bureau of Land Management
View the BLM page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Conservation Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to El Malpais National Conservation Area?

Leashed dogs are welcome in this New Mexico conservation area of sandstone bluffs and lava fields. Keep pets on a 6-foot leash with current tags and pack out waste. The El Calderon trail and the short visitor center bluff trail are good leashed-dog hikes. Most other routes cross jagged lava that is hard on paws even with booties, so plan around the sandstone areas.

What is the leash rule at El Malpais National Conservation Area?

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, trailheads, and picnic sites. On most of the open BLM land there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times, and local field offices can set stricter rules.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at El Malpais National Conservation Area?

Sharp lava rock is the main hazard for paws year-round. Summer sun on the black rock gets very hot, so hike early and carry water.

Are service animals allowed at El Malpais National Conservation Area?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.