Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
Between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, is a National Monument called Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks. The Canyon Trail takes you into beautiful slot canyons made of white volcanic tuff. The volcanic tuff was produced from volcanic eruptions 6 to 7 million years ago to form a layer that is over 1000 feet thick. Over time the volcanic tuff were shaped into cones, like tents, and can reach heights of 90 feet.
At the top of Tent Rocks in Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks NM, NM
The hike is quite a strenuous, with some rock scrambling and quick elevation changes. Our youngest, who was 3 1/2 years old at the time did the hike with some help. The almost 4 mile trail is definitely worth the view, to and from the top. Hold on tight to your kids as there are big drops.
Tent Rock, View from Below, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks NM, NM
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument sits on BLM land, but entry into the park is managed by a private company. Hours are fairly limited, and may change without notice.
Along the trail in Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks NM, NM
| Features: | Wander about in a landscape covered in white volcanic tuff of 6 to 7 million years ago, eroded over many years to form tent-like tops, hence its namesake |
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| Our Hike: | Almost 4 mile hike between towers of cone shaped white rocks, and ending at the top for a view from above of the conical shaped rocks. Many drops along the trail. |
| Fee: | $5 or free with Annual National Parks Pass |
| Directions: | From Albuquerque, head north on I-25 and take the exit for Santo Domingo/Cochiti Lake Recreation Area (Exit 259) off I-25 onto NM 22. Follow the signs on NM 22 to Cochiti Pueblo and Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument. From Santa Fe, head south on I-25 and take the Cochiti Pueblo Exit 264 off I-25 onto NM 16. Turn right off NM 16 onto NM 22, and follow the signs to Cochiti Pueblo and the National Monument. |
| Website: | Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument |