Tent Rocks National Monument in New Mexico is located just northwest of Albuquerque and southwest of Santa Fe. It is surrounded by Pueblo De Cochiti land but it is officially run by the Bureau of Land Management. Even though it is run by the Bureau of Land Management, the chief of the Pueblo De Cochiti tribe may close it at any time.
There is a small fee to enter or if you have the America the Beautiful Pass it is free. It is worth the cost and the short drive to get there, even though it may seem out of your way. The main parking lot is good for small cars, so if you have a truck or van make your way to the overflow lot for larger vehicles.
Hiking Tent Rocks National Monument
I absolutely LOVED this hike. There are no animals allowed on the trails, but it is great for a family or any person who loves hiking. The trail is a 3.5 mile loop with 968' in elevation gain in a short amount of time. The rest is smooth sailing.
Your hike starts on the Slot Canyon Trail.
Then just as the name of the trail states, you get to hike through a slot canyon!
Then hike through some hoodoos.
Then the climb comes. On a hot day, it's really hot so bring some water and take your time.
Once you make it to the top, enjoy your accomplishment and marvel at the views.
On your way back down, you will run into a turn off for Cave Loop Trail. This will add just a short distance to the hike and will take you back to the parking lot. It's worth the extra steps.
They ask that you do not climb or play around the cave, but to enjoy from the trail. Remember this is sacred land and history, so please respect the requests.
You can walk around some more tents before you make it to the parking lot. Again, don't climb or deface the rock.
I hope you enjoy this area as much as we did or at least add it to your list of places to see in New Mexico or on your next road trip!
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