Chain of Craters Back Country Byway
Local Visitor Information
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Explore Resources
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Byway Overview
The Chain of Craters Backcountry Byway is a 33-mile backcountry byway located in El Malpais National Conservation Area (NCA) and National Monument in northwestern New Mexico. The byway, which is County Road 42, passes almost exclusively through public lands. County Road 42 forms the western boundary of the West Malpais Wilderness and connects NM 53 and NM 117. For information regarding what you will see or the public lands you will have access to along the byway, see BLM's El Malpais NCA recreation website.
Quick Facts
- Designation
- BLM
- Location
- NM
- Total Length
- 33 miles
Visitor Information & Byway Partners
Contact Details
For personalized travel assistance and local recommendations, please reach out to our regional visitor center.
505-795-1401