The Cochiti Visitor Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Check-in for the monument begins at 7:45 a.m., but the visitor center itself opens at 9:00 a.m. The monument is open Thursday through Monday from February 1 to December 14, 2025.
The entrance fee at Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is $20 per person over 16 years old, $10 for ages 2-16, and free for those under 2. You also need a Cochiti Pueblo Tribal Access Pass. Reservations are required.
From Santa Fe, take I-25 south to Cochiti Pueblo Exit 264, then NM 16 to NM 22. Immerse yourself in ancient landscapes and unique rock formations, a hidden gem of New Mexico’s natural beauty.
Parking is available at the designated Monument parking area, accessible via well-maintained paved roads. It accommodates cars, RVs, and motorcycles, but no overnight parking is allowed. Parking is free during off-season, but a shuttle is required during peak season. A BLM Ticket Reservation and Cochiti Pueblo Tribal Access Pass are mandatory.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the high desert of north-central New Mexico, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument unfolds as a surreal landscape of eroded volcanic rock formations. Towering hoodoos, cone-shaped spires reaching up to 90 feet, rise from the earth, sculpted from layers of ash, pumice, and tuff. The name Kasha-Katuwe, meaning ‘white cliffs’ in the Keresan language of the Cochiti Pueblo people, reflects the monument’s stark beauty.
A winding trail snakes through narrow slot canyons, leading to a mesa overlook where sweeping panoramic views of hoodoos stretch across the horizon, flanked by the majestic peaks of the Sangre de Cristo, Jemez, and Sandia Mountains. Below, fragrant ponderosa pines, cottonwoods, and flowering manzanita shrubs soften the rugged terrain.
After a four-year closure, the monument has reopened with new measures to safeguard this fragile and sacred landscape. Visitors now need timed-entry reservations and a Cochiti Pueblo Tribal Access Pass, ensuring a more intimate and respectful experience. The area is a testament to nature’s raw power and artistry, with delicately layered sand, gravel, volcanic ash, and tuff forming the unique formations.
For those seeking an immersive experience, the national recreation trail offers a chance to observe and study the geologic processes that shape this natural wonder. The surrounding landscape, part of the Jemez volcanic field, is a living laboratory of volcanic history, with the Valles and Toledo calderas nearby.
To fully appreciate this destination, travelers should plan their visit during the spring, when the manzanita shrubs are in full bloom, or autumn, as the cottonwoods turn golden. Local outfitters and the nearby town of Cochiti Pueblo provide additional opportunities to engage with the culture and natural beauty of the area. With its reopening, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument invites affluent travelers to experience its unique character and raw beauty.
- Area (mi²)
- 8.4
- Annual visitors
- 75 000
- Established year
- 2001
Top 3 Facts about Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
The unique cone-shaped rock formations are products of volcanic eruptions 6 to 7 million years ago, leaving deposits of pumice, ash, and tuff over 1,000 feet thick. These formations vary in height from a few feet to approximately 90 feet.
In this high desert landscape, fragrant ponderosa pines, cottonwoods, and flowering manzanita shrubs adorn the terrain. The area is a habitat for various wildlife, including diverse bird species and predatory animals. The unique geology supports a variety of plant life, while the surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to this surreal ecosystem.
In the high desert, towering hoodoos, some reaching 90 feet tall, sculpted from layers of ash, pumice, and tuff, rise from the earth. A winding trail traverses narrow slot canyons, leading to a mesa overlook with panoramic views of the majestic Sangre de Cristo, Jemez, and Sandia Mountains. Below, fragrant ponderosa pines and flowering manzanita shrubs soften the rugged terrain. The area’s unique geology, formed from 6 to 7 million-year-old volcanic rock deposits, creates a surreal landscape of conical rock formations and caprocks protecting softer layers beneath.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during mild spring or fall seasons to avoid extreme weather. Arrive early to beat crowds and potential wait times. Bring ample water, hiking boots, and binoculars. Plan for a few hours to explore the scenic trails and slot canyon, with rest breaks and meals before or after, as on-site options are limited.
Pack Appropriately
Pack lightweight, UV-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Bring extra water, snacks, and a map for day trips. For longer stays, include camping gear and layers for cooler evenings. Check the season for specific weather needs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are most active. Obey speed limits and be mindful of seasonal migrations. Never touch or feed animals, and stay on designated trails to preserve the natural habitat. Respect the land as you find it.
Stay Informed
Monitor weather forecasts to avoid flash flooding and thunderstorms. Wear sturdy shoes, stay hydrated, and be cautious of rattlesnakes. For emergencies, contact park authorities at the visitor center or call BLM Law Enforcement. Respect fire restrictions and park rules.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures, 50s-70s°F, and vibrant wildflowers. Ideal for hiking, this season offers pleasant weather and stunning vistas. Visit in March to May for optimal conditions and witness the blooming flora. No specific events, but a perfect time for outdoor exploration.
Explore unique volcanic formations from March to October, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Be aware of flash floods and lightning during monsoon season. No special events are scheduled, but the stunning landscapes and trails make it a must-visit despite the heat.Bring ample water.
Visit in fall for mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp air. Enjoy the monument’s vibrant autumn hues and scenic hikes. Catch the Columbus Day celebration on October 13, a highlight of the season. Ideal time to avoid crowds and immerse in nature’s splendor.
Visit from December to February for a serene winter landscape, with temperatures in the 30s-50s°F. Though trails may be icy, the crisp air and occasional snowfall add a unique charm, but check weather and trail conditions beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest cities to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument are Albuquerque and Santa Fe, both of which are about 45 minutes away. Albuquerque is slightly closer, with the monument being about an hour from the city via car.
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Dogs are not allowed, except for identifiable service animals. Leaving a dog in the car is also not permitted due to heat concerns. Only service animals are permitted for the health and safety of all visitors.
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Parking is available, but it can be limited during high season when visitors may need to use a shuttle. There is ample parking during the off-season. The parking area can accommodate various types of vehicles, including camper vans, trailers, and motorhomes.
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Hike the Slot Canyon Trail, a 1.5-mile roundtrip path with some climbing and narrow passages, or the Cave Loop Trail, a 1.2-mile loop. Enjoy birdwatching, geologic observation, and plant identification. Take in panoramic views from the mesa overlook, featuring towering hoodoos and surrounding mountain peaks.