Local Area Recreation Near Grants KOA Journey

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El Malpais National Monument

El Malpais National Monument

Discover the rugged beauty of El Malpais (pronounced el-mal-pie-ees), a striking volcanic landscape located in western New Mexico. This unique national monument offers a dramatic mix of lava flows, sandstone bluffs, hidden caves, and ancient lava tubes, all shaped by volcanic activity over thousands of years.Whether you're up for a scenic drive, a peaceful hike, or an adventurous cave exploration, El Malpais has something for every type of explorer. Visitors can enjoy well-marked trails, stunning viewpoints, and a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich geologic and cultural history. It's a must-see destination for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor adventurers alike.

Tee Off in Grants New Mexico

Tee Off in Grants New Mexico

Tee off beneath the wide-open New Mexico sky! The Coyote Del Malpais Golf Course in Grants is one of the most scenic and affordable golf destinations in the Southwest. This beautifully maintained 18-hole championship course is surrounded by ancient lava flows and panoramic views of Mount Taylor, creating a one-of-a-kind backdrop you won't find anywhere else.The course features lush fairways, water hazards, and challenging greens that offer fun for golfers of every skill level. After your round, stop by the clubhouse for refreshments and friendly local conversation. Whether you're an early-morning player chasing the sunrise or just looking for a relaxing afternoon outdoors, Coyote Del Malpais delivers the perfect blend of beauty and challenge.So grab your clubs and enjoy a round of golf that's truly “above par” in the Land of Enchantment!

Grants, NM

Adventure Awaits in Grants

Adventure Awaits in Grants

Hiking trails are just minutes away — explore the lava fields of El Malpais National Monument, trek through sandstone bluffs, or take in sweeping views from La Ventana Natural Arch, one of New Mexico's most breathtaking natural wonders.For fishing enthusiasts, Bluewater Lake State Park is a local favorite. Just a short drive from the Grants KOA, it's known for trophy-sized tiger muskies, peaceful picnics, and stunning desert sunsets reflected on the water.Catch a movie at the Cineport 6 Theatre or stroll down Historic Route 66, where you'll find vintage neon signs, murals, and locally owned diners serving up classic New Mexican flavors, Make sure to grab a coffee from the 1912 Market.For a dose of local history, visit the Mining Museum explore volcanic landscapes at Bandera Ice Cave and Lava Tubes, or take a scenic drive up Mount Taylor — a sacred mountain standing over 11,000 feet tall and visible from almost anywhere in town.Whether you're hiking, fishing, dining, or simply soaking in the desert beauty, Grants is your gateway to adventure on Historic Route 66!

Indian Culture

Indian Culture

Acoma Pueblo - Discover the traditional puebloan culture and living history of Acoma Pueblo in New Mexico. The Sky City Cultural Center provides a look into our heritage through a variety of activities and exhibits. Take a guided tour of the ancient pueblo village atop a 367-foot sacred sandstone bluff where they have lived for hundreds of years. Shop at the Gaits'i Gallery for beautiful Native American jewelry and Acoma pottery, have lunch in the Y'aak'a Café, or join them for feast day celebrations and other public events throughout the year. Chaco Canyon Heritage Site-Chaco was a hub of ceremony, trade for the prehistoric people of the Four Corners area. Chaco is remarkable for its multi-storied buildings, and distinctive architecture. These structures required considerable planning and design by the Chacoan people combining many elements of architectural design, astronomical alignments, and geometry. Chaco structures remain the largest ancient buildings of their type in North America. Zuni Pueblo - Take highway 53 from Grants west to Arizona. But stop along the way at Zuni for peek into pueblo life. The Zuni Pueblo is nestled in a scenic valley, surrounded by the enchanting mesas located in the McKinley and Cibola counties in the northwestern part of New Mexico. The Zuni are famous for their in-lay jewelry and furniture. There is a cultural and visitors center that traveling guests can find displays of Zuni crafts and offers insight into the Zuni culture. Crownpoint Monthly Navajo Rug Auction- The Crownpoint Rug Weavers Association has been auctioning rugs from all over the reservation since 1968. The Rug Auction at Crownpoint gives buyers the unique opportunity to purchase Navajo rugs directly from the weavers themselves, at prices well below retail. The auction has grown steadily in popularity, and brings buyers from all over the United States and the world.

Hiking

Hiking

Discover some of the best hiking in New Mexico right here in Grants! Explore the breathtaking La Ventana Natural Arch, one of the Southwest's largest sandstone arches, and take in sweeping desert views. For a high-altitude adventure, hike Mount Taylor, an 11,301-foot volcanic peak offering stunning forest trails and panoramic vistas. Whether you're exploring El Malpais National Monument or chasing sunsets over red-rock cliffs, hiking in Grants promises unforgettable scenery, diverse terrain, and authentic outdoor adventure along historic Route 66.

Biking

Biking

Grants, New Mexico, is a hidden gem for cyclists riding the legendary Great Divide Mountain Bike Route — offering rest, resupply, and stunning high-desert views along Historic Route 66. From the rugged Zuni Mountain Trails to the volcanic landscapes of El Malpais National Monument and the challenging climbs of Mount Taylor, this area delivers unforgettable rides for every skill level. Whether you're tackling miles of singletrack or cruising through red-rock country, biking in Grants promises adventure, beauty, and pure New Mexico freedom.

Check out our Blog post for more detailed Biking information.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Historical and Cultural Sites

Old Spanish Missions are scattered all over northwest New Mexico. Whether you are interested in the Spanish colonial missions architecture and history, or seek to trace your family's past, these places offer insight to a much older time and their function today.

NM

More exporing

More exporing

El Morro national monument is historical and scenic beauty all in the same breath taking moments. Discover who came before you to find this sacred and memorable place. Inscriptions on the bare rock face date back to the Spanish explorers and older.