Not as well know, but well worth the time...El Malpias Nat. Park near Grants, NM has lava caves, ice caves, bat caves, red rocks, stunning mountains and Native American culture. Find the visitors Centers for Ranger led hikes and information. Follow 40 from Albuquerque about 1 1/2 hours northwest. Then go on to Gallup and the old hotels where Western movies were filmed. Expect to meet wonderful foreign visitors and try out your college German, French etc.