New Mexico is renowned for its incredible hikes, but there is a historic area in particular that takes visitors back in time thousands of years through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Called the Gateway to the Plains, this pass journeys through the juniper, piñon, and ponderosa pine woodlands and past remnants of Indian pueblos of resilient people who once lived there. Here’s why you’ll want time travel through Glorieta Pass and its trails near Santa Fe:
The Pecos Valley is rich with a vibrant and varied history.
The name Pecos first appeared in Spanish records in the late 1500s. The name derives from the Keresan word pe'kush and is translated to mean "place where there is water." Historians believe Spanish thought the word sounded like "Pecos," and that became the name that was used to refer to the area. This photo shows the Pass as viewed from the ramada.
Between the mountains and the mesa Glorieta lies the Glorieta Pass.
The pass has been used by Pueblo and Plains Indians, Spanish conquerers, missionaries, armies, settlers, and today, visitors. The history is rich and varied. The Pecos River running through the area provided water for those passing through.
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The remains of an old Spanish mission church provide a clue into the past.
The water and varied terrain is attractive to wildlife, including varieties of bobcats, bears, deer, sheep, and of course a wide variety of birds and other smaller critters.
Rattlesnakes are also a common sight, especially during the spring and summer months.
They live here too, and rangers ask for visitors to simply avoid them and then report their location to park staff.
Have your visited Pecos National Park, and if so, what was your experience? Did you take any of the tours while there? For related content, here are the 12 best places in New Mexico to explore on foot.
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