If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to walk on a different planet or have an otherworldly experience, perhaps it’s time you head to New Mexico, where you’re guaranteed unique landscapes and experiences you can’t find anywhere else. One such experience is a visit to Tent Rocks National Monument on the Pajarito Plateau. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is one of the most visually striking landscapes in New Mexico. Just under an hour’s drive southwest of Santa Fe, this unique geological site features towering, cone-shaped rock formations that rise up to 90 feet, sculpted by volcanic eruptions and centuries of erosion.
While there are plenty of things to do in Santa Fe, there’s a whole world outside the city that’s worth exploring, too. Tent Rocks is just one of those places. From places like Tent Rocks New Mexico and the Puye Cliff Dwellings to Bandelier National Monument and Georgia O’Keeffe’s Ghost Ranch, and plenty of other places in between, there’s a wide variety of fascinating day trips worth taking in northern New Mexico. These inspiring lands are fantastic places to enjoy some hiking, not to mention a deep immersion into the cultural forces that have shaped New Mexico over the centuries. Stretch your legs, clear your head, and see a side of New Mexico that’s both wild and unforgettable.
Once you’ve explored Tent Rocks, it’s time to return to the vibrant city of Santa Fe, the perfect home base for diving deeper into all northern New Mexico has to offer. Spend time exploring downtown Santa Fe’s galleries, restaurants, and historic sites like the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum or the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. Unwind in the mineral-rich hot springs in Ojo Caliente, and then, when the day is done, return to Four Kachinas Inn, a top-rated Santa Fe bed and breakfast known for its warm hospitality, locally inspired décor, and luxurious comfort. With its ideal location in a quiet historic neighborhood near the heart of the city, our Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe is the perfect place to recharge. Book your stay today!
What You’ll See at Tent Rocks National Monument
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument isn’t just a scenic place to take some photos. It’s layered with fascinating geology, ancient history, and cultural significance. Located between Santa Fe and Albuquerque near the Cochiti Pueblo, this national monument in New Mexico offers an immersive experience into the raw forces of nature and the deep-rooted traditions of the Southwest.
The most striking feature of this national monument is, of course, the iconic cone-shaped formations, called “tent rocks.” These rock structures were created by volcanic eruptions from the Jemez volcanic field nearly 7 million years ago.
The resulting layers of ash, pumice, and tuff were then carved by wind and water into the fairy-tale-like hoodoos and slot canyons visitors see today. Kasah-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is considered a living laboratory of the forces of nature and how they interact to teach profound lessons in time through these slowly but ever-changing formations.
Hiking at Tent Rocks New Mexico
The most popular activity at Tent Rocks National Monument is hiking the Canyon Trail, a 1.5-mile (one-way) trek that winds through a narrow slot canyon and culminates in a steep climb to a mesa-top viewpoint. From there, you get jaw-dropping views of the tent rocks below and the distant snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo, Jemez, and Sandia mountains, and the Rio Grande Valley. The Cave Loop Trail is a shorter, easier 1.2-mile hike that passes a small cave and many of the signature formations without the steep ascent. It’s perfect for casual hikers or anyone looking to enjoy the scenery without the steep climbs.
Hikers can also walk the 1-mile Veterans Memorial Trail, a flat, gravel loop that is 1 mile in length. At Tent Rocks, NM, you’ll also find the Veterans’ Memorial, located at the end of a 3-mile-long gravel road. The memorial overlooks the Peralta Canyon and Jemez Mountain peaks. If you visit this New Mexico monument during the quieter hours in the early morning or late afternoon, you’ll get softer light for photos, fewer crowds, and a better chance of spotting wildlife like kestrels, mule deer, or even coyotes. Bring water, good footwear, and sun protection; this is a high desert area, and conditions can change quickly.
Connect With These Historic Lands
Culturally, Kasha-Katuwe is deeply meaningful to the nearby Cochiti Pueblo, who continue to steward the land. The area was historically used for seasonal hunting and gathering, and you can see evidence of past habitation in the landscape itself. Everything from ancient petroglyphs to prehistoric campsites has been found in the surrounding terrain, though many are unmarked out of respect for the site’s sacred status.
Check the road conditions and opening hours in advance. The monument is sometimes closed due to weather or tribal ceremonies. While dogs and drones aren’t allowed to preserve the fragile ecosystem and respect tribal customs, photography, birdwatching, and quiet reflection are more than encouraged.
Tent Rocks National Monument is a popular destination, and visiting requires a reservation. Tickets are just $5 for everyone over the age of 16. Visitors must also get a $20 Cochiti Pueblo Tribal Access Pass directly from the Pueblo before entering Tent Rocks National Monument. You’ll get more information about that pass as you make your reservation at the link above.
The Best Lodging in Santa Fe, New Mexico
After a day of hiking among the dramatic formations of Tent Rocks National Monument, there’s nothing better than returning to the comfort and warmth of Four Kachinas Inn, the top-rated Santa Fe bed and breakfast. This intimate property, just minutes from the heart of downtown Santa Fe, blends the charm of traditional Southwestern style with thoughtful modern amenities. Each guest room features handcrafted furniture, original regional artwork, and private outdoor spaces perfect for unwinding after your adventures.
When you choose our top-rated Santa Fe lodging, you’ll truly feel like you’ve found a home away from home. Our Bed and Breakfast is tucked away in a quiet historic neighborhood, just a short walk from downtown Santa Fe’s renowned art galleries, shops, and restaurants, not to mention the New Mexico State Capitol. It’s close enough for you to enjoy things like Canyon Road, the Santa Fe Plaza, fantastic meals at local restaurants, walking tours, and so much more, while still also feeling like a quiet respite where you can escape the noise and crowds.
Here, you’ll enjoy all the conveniences and comforts of home, without any of the hassle. Our exceptional hospitality sets us apart as one of the top Bed and Breakfasts in Santa Fe. Each morning of your stay, you’ll be treated to a complimentary gourmet breakfast, featuring unique and rotating menu items such as green chile egg bakes, fresh fruit, and rich, locally roasted coffee, all perfectly crafted to fuel your next adventure. Throughout your stay, you’ll enjoy an experience curated with care, local insight, and genuine hospitality.
We are passionate about helping guests discover the best of Northern New Mexico, including hidden gems and local favorites that you won’t find in most guidebooks. Whether you’re here for the otherworldly beauty of Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, the vibrant culture of Santa Fe, or a little of both, you’ll find Four Kachinas Inn to be the perfect launching point for a memorable and authentic New Mexico getaway. Book your stay today!
