There are endless ways to explore Santa Fe’s outdoor scene. From the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to Bandelier National Monument, there is a vast variety of landscapes, flora, and fauna dispersed throughout the Northern New Mexico mountains. For a more in-depth look into some of the aviary habitats and ecosystems in the area, you can explore the beautiful grounds of the Randall Davey Audubon Center! It’s less than a 15-minute drive from the El Farolito Inn and is near to the Dale Ball Trail network! If you want to discover more exciting outdoor activities, request access to our free Santa Fe Vacation Guide! It’s full of insider tips and knowledge so you can explore the City Different like a local!
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What to Expect at the Randall Davey Audubon Center
Explore the Beautiful Hiking Trails and Gardens
Take a walk on the wild side when you take a day to explore the Randall Davey Audubon Center! There are plenty of beautiful landscapes and Northern New Mexico habitats on display throughout the trail system. You’ll see Ponderosa Pine forests, babbling brooks, and an array of desert and mountain brush. Visitors can go on self-guided hikes between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, but if you’re looking for a guided tour, there is a free bird walk at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday led by a local expert!
Discover Over 190 Species of Birds
There are about 190 different species of birds ranging from common to rare in the various ecosystems around the sanctuary. The Randall Davey Audubon Center has over 135 acres of diverse habitats that offer opportunities for native birds to thrive in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Thousands of acres of land in the Santa Fe National Forest and the Santa Fe River Watershed surround the sanctuary and provide a habitat buffer. This entire landscape offers a safe residence for animals, plants, and other nature that you can observe up close and personal when you visit. Some of the more popular birds you may come across include the Dark-eyed Junco, Townsend’s Solitaire, Steller’s Jay, and White-Breasted Nuthatch. Here’s a list of other birds you might see during your time at the Audubon center!
Tour the Randall Davey Home
If you want to discover some history in addition to your nature walk, visit on Friday. Every Friday at 2 p.m., there is a docent-led tour of the historic Randall Davey House and Studio. Santa Fe’s only nature center possesses a rich artistic past and allows guests to take a journey back in time to explore the house and studio. It is still in its original state from the mid-1900s, featuring all of the original furnishings, mural paintings, and the prohibition-era hidden bar!
Choose Your Room at El Farolito
El Farolito Inn offers you a unique stay in a beautiful, authentically furnished room! All of our rooms feature bright and vibrant colors that complement the traditional Santa Fe adobe-style architecture. Wake up to a delicious breakfast before you head out and explore the rich history, culture, and heritage of one of the oldest cities in the United States. Our Inn is only a 10-minute walk from the heart of town, where you’ll find Santa Fe Plaza, the Palace of the Governors, and other historical sites. You can also venture outside of the city to Pecos National Historical Park, Meow Wolf, or one of our favorite hiking trails near Santa Fe!
Start planning your New Mexico getaway today by booking your room at El Farolito! We look forward to welcoming you to our charming and historic oasis!
