A trip here is well worth it,spectacular views and fantastic rock formations.2 different trails to take for different levels of hiking expertise.you need to bring plenty of water and sunscreen
Uncrowded, with spectacular rock formations. The hike is easy, but remember the elevation and sun; so dress appropriately and bring water. If you're a photographer, try to be there in the early morning or at dusk when the light & shadows enchant. This is a great place to bring children (but no dogs).
I came here on a snowy Feb. day and was a bit worried about road conditions. The road was a little snow covered at some points, the parking lot was not plowed. But it was open. The road was closed right past the first lot, though I'm not sure what is beyond that area. No regrets going. Even in the snow it was pretty cool looking. I was very glad I had boots on and was dressed warm.
Tent Rocks really rocks! We just returned from a 2 hour hike amidst these unusal and beautiful rock formations, and it was a great way to spend a warm (high 60's), February afternoon. This attraction is about 40 miles from Santa Fe on good roads all the way; if you have a senior pass for Natl. Parks and Federal Recreational Lands, you will not have to pay the entrance fee. We did both trails and saw amazing formations; if you've ever been to Cappadocia in Turkey, you'll recognize this awesome and unusual terrain immediately! Allow about 2 hours for both hikes, bring water and a camera, wear shoes with good tread, sunscreen, a hat and enjoy! There are picnic tables, so another idea would be to pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic.....Tent Rocks is well worth the ride!
Even though the thermometer showed upper thirties, the sun warmed the air so our January hike was pleasant. There was a lot of packed snow in the slot canyon area so the footing required caution but the sites were worth the effort. We didn't make it to the top, however. We did drive to the Veteran's Overlook to see a broader view of the Monument. (We would not have made it out of the shadowed roads without four-wheel drive). We found the best angles for photographing the teepee shaped rocks was at the end of the pavement as the road drops into the streambed. Park off the side of the road then walk around to get good angles. Afternoon sun would show off the shapes better than the high overhead mid-day sun.
A quick 30 mile drive out of Santa Fe and we arrived at the beautiful landscape. Check forecast before heading out. The slot canyons and overall landscape was so beautiful. Make sure and bring camera, backup memory card, and batteries! Highly recommended!
WE visited Tent Rocks on a snowy day in January but it was still very enjoyable. The hike around the rocks was fairly easy and scenic. We were the only car that took the drive on the road to the scenic overlook. The snow was falling quietly and the only thing that could be heard was th birds singing. Truly enjoyable!
A beautiful sunny 69 degree Febuary day at Tent Rocks. We first did the loop to the cave (shorter if you head right instead of left out of the parking lot for those who want an easy hike under a mile.) but really nice if you take the left route then head into the slot canyon up to the end of the riverbed and then a steep climb over rocks to the top. The 75-100ft are steep but worth the climb for the views!
This place is a must visit for anyone visiting Santa fe or Albuquerque. Its very unique and the hike to the top is not so hard, even though it calls out to be a hard hike in their website. On the way back we took the cave loop which is just 0.2 miles more and worth the visit to the cave and other rock formations. Overall a great experience and I would recommend it for everyone !
I took the easy loop route and it took about 45mins. A great hike with an amazing view of volcanic rock formations. We even saw 4 deers on the way up. This place made me think of Goreme in Turkey. I suggest this hike to everyone. Im sure the "cave" hike must be even better but I was satisfied with the "loop" hike.