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Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, Cochiti Pueblo, NM

Photo: VitaleBaby, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped and resized.

Sport & OutdoorOutdoor AdventureLocal Gem

Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

Via NM-16 from I-25 Exit 264, check in at Cochiti Visitor Center · Cochiti Pueblo, NM

Why you should go…

Kasha-Katuwe means white cliffs in Keresan, and the name fits the pale cones of pumice and tuff left by volcanic eruptions 6 to 7 million years ago. Two trails start at the parking area: the easy 1.2-mile Cave Loop and the 1.5-mile Canyon Trail, which climbs 630 feet through a slot canyon. Entry is by advance reservation only through Recreation.gov, and you check in at the Cochiti Visitor Center first. Dogs are not allowed.

  • #national monument
  • #slot canyon
  • #hiking
  • #tent rocks
  • #geology

Good to know

General sport & outdoor guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Weather calls the shots

    Check the forecast the morning of and keep an indoor backup in your pocket for the day it turns.

  • Shoes, water, sun cover

    The three things that decide whether you last the whole outing or cut it short after an hour.

  • Parking and launches fill early

    On a nice weekend, lots and trailheads are often full by mid-morning.

  • Daylight shrinks in shoulder season

    Spring and fall visits need an earlier start than the same trip in July.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

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    30 mi awayMore like this

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    31 mi awayMore like this