Sandstone Bluffs

Sandstone Bluffs Overlook is the best drive-up view in El Malpais. A rim of sandstone rising up to 400 feet above the lava, with the black McCartys flow, one of the youngest lava flows in the United States, spread out below toward the horizon.

What to Do

Park at the overlook and walk along the bluff rim for different views of the lava field below. Picnic tables and a toilet are on site if you want to linger. The view stretches for miles across the flow, bordered by distant mesas and volcanic cones. You can also follow primitive trails down into the valley, where old homesteads, petroglyphs, and several large natural arches are scattered. That’s a much longer, self-guided undertaking, not part of a typical overlook visit.

How Much Time to Spend

Fifteen minutes is enough for the view. Give it closer to 45 minutes if you’re photographing a sunset or want to walk sections of the rim.

Getting There

The overlook is about 10 miles south of I-40 off NM 117, part of the Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway. The turnoff is well marked. Follow a graded gravel road roughly 1.5 miles to the parking area. The gravel road is passable in an ordinary car and the bluffs pair naturally with a stop at La Ventana Arch a few miles south.

This is an easy stop with incredible views and fun rock scrambling. If you’re already on NM 117, there’s no reason to pass it!