Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument


At this surreal geologic enclave, volcanic ash from the ancient Jemez Mountain volcanoes has eroded into tipi-like formations and slender, steep-sided canyons. Two trails lead through the park: the 1.2-mile Cave Loop Trail is short, but only scrapes the surface of this extraordinary terrain. Budget 1½ to two hours, and head instead along the more demanding Canyon Trail, a 3-mile round-trip on which you’ll climb through a slot canyon to reach the uplands and enjoy fantastic panoramas. Dogs are not permitted.

It's located between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. To get here, take I-25 exit 259 to Hwy 22, and then follow the road north for 20 miles, passing Cochiti Pueblo and Cochiti Dam.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Kewa Pueblo

8.73 MILES

Long known as Santo Domingo Pueblo, but more commonly called Kewa Pueblo, this conservative, non-gaming community, poised halfway between Albuquerque and…

2. Bandelier National Monument

11.99 MILES

Bandelier's 1.2-mile Main Loop Trail in Frijoles Canyon offers an excellent introduction to the main ruins and history of the park. The trail first passes…

3. Alcove House

12.13 MILES

Perched 450ft above the canyon floor, this lofty ceremonial cave is reached by climbing four ladders. At the top you'll find a reconstructed kiva. There's…

4. San Felipe Pueblo

14.43 MILES

Although the conservative San Felipe Pueblo does not encourage visitors for most of the year, outsiders are welcome at the spectacular San Felipe Feast…

5. Ponderosa Valley Winery

15.99 MILES

Stop in at Ponderosa Valley Winery for a glass or bottle of late-harvest Riesling or Pinot Noir. Free tastings.

6. Valles Caldera National Preserve

16.01 MILES

Ever wondered what the crater of a dormant supervolcano looks like 1.25 million years after it first blows? At Valles Caldera, the prehistoric explosion…

7. Rancho de las Golondrinas

16.62 MILES

Built as a fortified residence along the Camino Real, the 'Ranch of the Swallows' is nearly as old as Santa Fe itself. Now it’s a 200-acre living museum,…