These Enchanting Tent Rocks will take your New Mexico Travel to an Epic High

The Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument in New Mexico is easily one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. With cone-shaped rock formations along a backdrop of pink, beige, and white-colored cliffs, this New Mexico travel gem is certainly a sight to see.

As a work of art formed nearly 6-7 million years ago, these tent rocks will take you to an entirely different place on Earth, a region you’ve most likely never seen before. Here are some interesting tidbits about its history and what the gorgeous surrounding area offers for travel:

Tent Rocks Monument. Photo: Bureau of Land Management via Flickr

Land of Oz: Towering Spires of Volcanic Rock

Years ago, the Jemez Volcanic field erupted in volcanic explosions, which left behind layers of volcanic rock and ash. Through natural courses of time and the weathering of rock, Nature created this beautiful canyon, out of which its unique name, Tent Rocks, arose. Believe it or not, these hard-cap rocks are 1,000 feet thick, the words “Kasha Katuwe” meaning “White Cliff” in Keresan. Keresan is the traditional language of the nearby Pueblo de Cochiti.

Tent Rocks Landscape. Photo: Karen Blaha via Flickr

It truly is a fascinating place to which to travel, one that deserves a good walk around. You’ll be hiking through landscapes of natural history on your New Mexico travel experience. Walking among these geologic giants leaves you feeling a bit more aware of your place in the natural world, as caretakers and observers of something larger than ourselves. Tent Rocks Monument is a New Mexico travel treat.

Tent Rocks in New Mexico. Photo: Bureau of Land Management via Flickr

Hike its Alluring Natural Landscapes

The Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument caters to all who love the outdoors, whether you’re just seeking an adventure or simply knowledge about different regions of Earth. It covers about 5,570-6760 feet of foot travel. It’s an outdoor laboratory for people to satisfy their science hearts.

If you find yourself here for an adventure, keep in mind that there are 3 trails on which you can hike, with a range from “very easy” to “difficult.” The first trail is the Veterans Memorial Trail, a 1-mile-long loop with picnic tables waiting for you at its end.

Close-Up of Tent Rocks. Photo: Tomasz Stasiuk via Flickr

The next trail is The Cave Loop, which is also considered an easy, 1.2 miles long course. The last trail is the most difficult of the three: The Canyon Trail. It’s about 1.5 miles long with a very narrow trail (almost like it can accommodate for a single-file line). Then, there’s a 630-foot incline to climb up to enjoy the panoramic views of the Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks. Though difficult to trek, the sights at its finale are definitely worth the sweat.