First post here but I have been reading the trail journals for some years and have had a great time doing so.
FYI for all thruhikers going through El Malpais. After reading a couple of this years journals I thought I would let you guys know that the Narrows Picnic Area has been officially closed to camping (and there is a sign clarifying this). You can still camp in the area as long as you get up on the rim itself, you just can’t camp inside the picnic area itself. They did it because (1) it was never designated to be a campground, and (2) severe flooding a few years ago made it a possible hazard to campers.
There is a new BLM campground a couple miles south of the Ranger Station on 117 if you wish to use that. FYI there is no water at that one either.
I also was reading about the concerns over the closure in the Zuni Mountains. They are administered under the same office as Mt. Taylor and the closures that apply to Mt. Taylor also apply to the Zuni Mountains. Additionally, the National Monuments in the area and the state parks have also gone into fire restrictions.
Just wanted to give you all a heads up on the changes, hope it helps some of you. :0)
cheers and good luck on your hikes!
dancingdog1