El Malpais National Monument
Sky Score 64/100≈ Bortle 2
El Malpais National Monument is a protected area in New Mexico with a measured darkness of 88/100 (≈ Bortle 2) — among the very darkest measurable skies in the American Southwest — the Milky Way casts visible shadows on moonless nights. The best month to come is typically May, when about 75% of the night sky is clear.
Tonight's outlook: 58/100. The moon is 7% lit and above the horizon 13% of the night; typical August clear-sky odds here are 58%. Updated daily.
Best time to stargaze at El Malpais National Monument
| Month | Clear night skies | Sky Score (new moon) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 57% | 58/100 |
| February | 64% | 63/100 |
| March | 64% | 62/100 |
| April | 72% | 69/100 |
| May ★ | 75% | 70/100 |
| June | 68% | 65/100 |
| July | 54% | 56/100 |
| August | 58% | 58/100 |
| September | 74% | 70/100 |
| October | 74% | 70/100 |
| November | 72% | 68/100 |
| December | 62% | 61/100 |
Scores assume a moonless night — check the moon before you drive (methodology).
Where to stay near El Malpais National Monument
No lodging within 80 km — this is true wilderness. Plan to camp, or base yourself in the nearest gateway town and drive out for the night.
Nearby spots in New Mexico
- La Ventana Arch Viewpoint — 8.1 km · Sky Score 64/100
- El Calderon viewpoint — 11.1 km · Sky Score 63/100
- Sandstone Bluff Overlook — 15.6 km · Sky Score 61/100
- Canyons Wilderness Study Area — 20.6 km · Sky Score 67/100
- El Morro National Monument — 38.9 km · Sky Score 64/100