Note: Tent Rocks National Monument is currently closed to the public
There’s a reason New Mexico is called “The Land of Enchantment,” and it has everything to do with the awe-inspiring sights you’ll find around every corner. That includes the stunning Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument. Here, you’ll find a standout geological experience, which makes for a fantastic day trip outside of downtown Santa Fe.
Tent Rocks National Monument features hallmark cone-shaped rock formations, known as hoodoos, which have been sculpted over millennia by the forces of erosion. These towering structures, some of which reach heights of up to 90 feet, create a landscape in the high deserts of Northern New Mexico that feels almost otherworldly. Visitors are drawn to this area for its distinctive geological formations and the insights it offers into the region’s volcanic history and the ongoing natural processes that shape our planet.
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is a fantastic place to enjoy desert hiking. Take your time meandering through narrow canyons, ascending to panoramic views, and observing the intricacies of the monument’s unique geology up close. Exploring this unique area is just one of the many things waiting for you in the Santa Fe area. There’s an exciting array of cultural and natural attractions to explore here, so make the most of it by staying with us at our top-rated Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast. Book your room today!
Your Guide to Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
Once you’ve filled yourself up with a delicious breakfast at our Inn, you’ll want to gear up for a stunning adventure at Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument. It’s about 45 minutes southwest of our Bed and Breakfast, and we recommend getting an earlier start to your day to visit this special place – especially in the heat of the summer.
Tent Rocks National Monument is truly a fascinating natural attraction. It’s close enough to downtown Santa Fe for a day trip and is one of our favorite places to enjoy hiking. The landscape here was etched out of volcanic ash near the Cochiti Pueblo millions of years ago. These Hoodoos serve as a spiritual wonder to the Pueblo people and offer a laboratory for ongoing study for scientists.
As wonderful as it is, Tent Rocks National Monument has been closed for more than three years, at first in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and now over ongoing concerns for over-visitation and conservation. We remain hopeful that it will again open to the public in 2024.
The Bureau of Land Management and the Pueblo de Cochiti will be transitioning to a day-use reservation system once the monument does reopen, so you’ll want to make sure you plan your visit well in advance to ensure you get a chance to go.
If you do get the chance to visit Tent Rocks this year, you can expect an afternoon of wonder as you explore the monument’s unique landscape and geological features. Here’s a list of things you can do at Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument:
- Hike the Trails: Venture along the Cave Loop Trail for a relatively easy hike or tackle the Slot Canyon Trail for a more challenging trek that rewards with spectacular views of the Sangre de Cristo, Jemez, and Sandia mountains, and the Rio Grande Valley.
- Photography: Capture the striking beauty of the hoodoos and the varied landscapes, which offer endless photographic opportunities.
- Bird Watching: Keep an eye out for the diverse bird species that inhabit the area, adding a touch of wildlife observation to your visit.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty, with designated areas providing a perfect spot to relax and soak in the surroundings.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the grandeur of natural wonders, this protected National Monument promises an adventure filled with wonder. Always check the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument page on the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management website for special hours, closings, and other details before your arrival.
Where to Stay While Visiting New Mexico
Of course, whether you get the opportunity to visit Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument or not, there’s always a reason to see the stunning landscapes and diverse cultures of northern New Mexico. You’ll never run out of things to do in Santa Fe or other small communities in northern New Mexico.
Whether you’re planning adventures big or small, there’s no better place to serve as your home base than our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of hiking and an excellent place to walk into downtown Santa Fe for dinner, shopping, museums and galleries, and more.
Our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast offers authentic accommodations featuring local furnishing and artistic decor, perfectly complementing your stay in our city. Wake up every morning to a delicious breakfast before walking to the heart of the town to see and experience one of the oldest cities in the country! Start planning your trip today by booking one of our rooms.
