Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, Cochiti Pueblo

I love exploring the outdoors and grew up traveling to the national parks and state parks in Utah and surrounding states. This is a great hike. We saw many older people doing the hike and were so impressed! I thought it was a hike around a rim of a canyon from the pictures we've seen, but you go through the slots in the canyon, walk along the base, then go up the mountain. They have some steps, but some places can be a bit strenuous and you'll have to climb over rocks. Bring plenty of water when you go. It took us about 3 hours with kids, but they all did great! It was 106 degrees out when we went, but the breeze and shady spots made it bearable. I believe there rangers hike up to the top before 4pm and start hiking down at 4 and make everyone hike back with them even if they haven't made it to the top, for safety reasons. Great hike, get out and explore!

This place is really amazing and not far from major hubs in NM. The slot canyons are incredible! The hike to the top after the slot canyons is neat for an overview but may be challenging for some. If you don’t feel like climbing after the slot canyons - don’t. The canyons are really the star of the show anyways. Really fascinating landscape. Pretty accessible. Good signage. The canyons offer plenty of shade but so make sure to wear sturdy footwear and pack plenty of water. Highly recommend some type of hydration bladder backpack. Also make sure you take your camera!

This place is a gem. Used to be totally under the radar but the word is out. Worth the visit but you’ll wanna go early. The hike is fairly strenuous with some pretty good climbs if you’re not used to it. So kids and casual hikers be ready.

Left Albuquerque at 10:30 and had to wait in line to get in at noon. 15 minute wait in the middle of May was not bad. They only allow a certain amount of people in so be there early if you don't want to wait. Nice parking also for long campers, paved road. It had rained the previous day so there were some areas that were slippery due to mud. Some parts are narrow enough that you need to wait for your turn as there are people leaving as well. Very windy and you will leave with sand in your hair. 😊. Absolutely gorgeous place and breathtaking views from top. The last part is steep and we saw several people with scrapes on their knees and toes as they had stumbled. Have good hiking shoes and you will do great.

Yikes! This place is NOT a good day trip distance from somewhere like Dallas or Fort Collins. When we came here it was a little crowded. There is not a good place to fill your water bottle before your hike so be sure to bring water with you! (You can purchase some good water at most gas stations or supermarkets). The hike is not too bad, but it’s HOT. We were sweating a lot while we climbed. The rocks look a little bit like tents, but I think they look more like other things. (like rockets or monks). Be careful not to get dehydrated and watch out for velvet ants, snakes, and scorpions!