Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
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Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
October 2011
Just south of Santa Fe, NM is one of the most unusual canyons in the country. As you will see, some of the areas look like sets from the Star Wars movies. We arrived at the park early and for nearly all of our hike through the canyon were the only visitors in the canyon. The first image is the view from the parking lot at the trail head and it only provides a glimpse of the unique area you are about to enter.
There are two trails, a canyon floor trail called the Cave Loop Trail, and a trail to the top called the Slot Canyon Trail. We focused on the Slot Canyon Trail.
The trail prior to the slot canyon is wide and flat. As you hike into the canyon, the terrain and canyon walls get more interesting by the step.
The trail proceeds into the slot canyon.
A few portions of the slot canyon earn their name well and are fairly tight.
When you survey the upper canyon walls in the slot canyon area, you begin to get a sense that you are entering an area that is truly unique.
Kasha Katuwe National Monument
New Mexico
The unique erosion in the area has created some of the most interesting terrain I have ever seen. The trail map and guide (available on the Internet) describes how these formations were created. Kasha-Katuwe is a small area in comparison to most national parks but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in content.
The final stage of the trail involves a hike up to the top along a narrow trail that ascends about 600 feet. The view offers a panorama of the tent rocks and the surrounding area. It is clearly worth the hike.
This is a view from the top looking down into the slot canyon area. The slot canyon trail can clearly be seen on the left.
Kasha Katuwe National Monument
New Mexico
It is sometimes difficult to gauge the size of some of these formations.
The trail back through the slot canyon is just as enjoyable the second time.
Kasha-Katuwe is an amazing place and definitely deserves to be on your list of fascinating day trips from the Santa Fe / Albuquerque area.
Kasha Katuwe National Monument
New Mexico
