Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, a remarkable outdoor destination managed by the Bureau of Land Management in New Mexico, presents an unparalleled opportunity to witness and study the geological forces that have sculpted our planet’s landscapes. Situated on the Pajarito Plateau in north-central New Mexico, this national monument’s elevation spans from 5,570 to 6,760 feet above sea level. Exclusively for foot travel, the monument features trails inviting visitors to engage in hiking, birdwatching, geological exploration, and plant identification amidst its unique terrain.
The iconic cone-shaped tent rock formations are geological marvels born from volcanic activity that occurred 6 to 7 million years ago. Eruptions from the Jemez volcanic field deposited layers of pumice, ash, and tuff, accumulating to over 1,000 feet in thickness. Powerful volcanic explosions ejected pyroclasts, and intensely hot gases surged down slopes in pyroclastic flows, creating the foundation of this extraordinary landscape.
Many of these slender hoodoos are crowned with boulder caps, acting as protective shields against erosion for the softer pumice and tuff beneath. However, some tent rocks have lost their capstones and are gradually eroding, revealing the dynamic nature of geological processes. These formations, while generally consistent in shape, vary dramatically in height, ranging from a few feet to an impressive 90 feet, offering a diverse visual experience throughout the monument.
Please be aware that Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is currently closed to public access.
Activities and Experiences
When open, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument provides a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts:
- Day Use Area: Explore the monument and its trails during day visits.
- Hiking: Traverse the designated foot trails to immerse yourself in the unique landscape.
- Wildlife Viewing: Observe the local wildlife and bird species that inhabit the area.
Directions to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks
To reach Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument:
From Albuquerque: Travel north on I-25 and take Exit 259 for Santo Domingo/Cochiti Lake Recreation Area onto NM 22. Follow NM 22 as signed to Cochiti Pueblo and Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument.
From Santa Fe: Head south on I-25 and take Exit 264 for Cochiti Pueblo onto NM 16. Turn right onto NM 16, then right again onto NM 22, and follow signs to Cochiti Pueblo and the National Monument.
Important Note: Using GPS coordinates may lead you through inaccessible tribal lands. Please adhere to the directions provided above and access the Monument from I-25 for the most reliable route.
We encourage you to plan your future visit to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument to experience the awe-inspiring beauty and geological significance of this natural wonder once it reopens to the public. Stay updated on the reopening status through official Bureau of Land Management channels and Recreation.gov.
