Hiking To This Remote Geological Wonder In New Mexico Is Like Traveling To Another Planet
By Catherine Armstrong|Published July 26, 2019
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
New Mexico’s breathtaking scenery is unique and diverse. From its lush forests to its breathtaking canyon views, there’s always a new vista to appreciate. You’ll also find some incredible geological wonders here, including some rock formations that look like they could be on the planet Mars. Take this three-mile hike to see New Mexico’s Tent Rocks.
The Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument covers 5,042 acres near Santa Fe. You'll find it on the Pajareto Plateau, and it's home to some of the most unique geological features in the state - the Tent Rocks.
The soft, pumice tent rocks are the remains of a once-active volcano that was spewed lava over the area six to seven million years ago. Over time, erosion created their tent-like shape, and you can see them up close on the Tent Rocks Slot Canyon and Cave Loop Trail.
The trail is actually two trails - one branches off of the other. The entire hike makes a 3.1-mile loop, and it's considered moderately difficult. You'll experience elevation changes of about 839 feet throughout.
The first portion of the trail - the Cave Loop - is fairly easy, with mostly flat terrain. You'll make your way around the base of the cliffs and tent rocks, and will see a little cave up above.
The Slot Canyon Trail is an out-and-back spur that branches off from the loop trail, and though it's more difficult terrain, it's well worth your effort.
The trail takes you through a shady, narrow slot canyon. There are a few obstructions along the way, so you'll have a few small scrambles over some rocks blocking the path.
The Tent Rocks alone make this hike well worth your time. While some are just two feet tall, others rise 90 feet into the sky. Some still have their capstones of harder rock at the top.
