Santa Fe Guide

Hike & Explore

Mountains, trails, and river.

The Sangre de Cristo mountains are your backyard. From a gentle morning walk to a full-day Taos rafting trip — the outdoors here are extraordinary.

Camino Encantado Trail

Trailhead from Four Seasons Encantado, directly across the street from the villa. 1.5 miles round trip — perfect for a morning walk with mountain views.

Atalaya Mountain Trail

Start from St. John's parking lot — follow signs to the summit. Approximately 1.9-mile loop with 305 ft elevation gain. Classic Santa Fe hike.

Dorothy Stewart Trail

1.9-mile loop (about 1.4 miles longer if starting from St. John's parking lot), 305 ft elevation gain. A lovely foothills trail.

Santa Fe National Forest Borrego Trail

Easy 3-mile loop at 8,200–8,800 ft elevation. Trailhead just beyond Hyde Park on the left, marked with a sign. Beautiful high-altitude forest.

Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks

Cone-shaped volcanic formations rising from a narrow slot canyon — unlike anything else in New Mexico. Two short trails near Cochiti Pueblo, about 45 minutes southwest of Santa Fe. Timed entry required; reserve in advance.

Bandelier National Monument

Explore ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings and beautiful canyon landscapes. The Falls Trail is an easy 4.8-mile round trip. An unforgettable experience.

Ski Santa Fe

A fun, local ski mountain just 16 miles from the Plaza. Great for a half-day on the slopes without the crowds of Taos or Colorado.

Santa Fe Rafting Company

Fun rafting trips all around the Santa Fe and Taos areas. Half- or full-day options on the Rio Grande Gorge.

Rio Grande Gorge & Bridge

One hour north near Taos — walk across the gorge bridge and look 600 feet straight down to the Rio Grande. Pack a picnic for the drive.

Taos & The High Road

Take the High Road through Chimayo, Truchas, and Las Trampas — one of the most scenic drives in New Mexico. Santuario de Chimayo is a must-stop.

Abiquiú & Ghost Ranch

Approx. 50 miles north on US 84. O'Keeffe home/studio tour requires reservations; 9 marked trails at Ghost Ranch. Otherworldly red rock scenery.

Sky Railway

Santa Fe's adventure train — themed excursions through the high desert. A unique and memorable experience, especially for families.

Meow Wolf House of Eternal Return

Immersive maximalist art experience — great for all ages. One of the most unique attractions in the Southwest. Book tickets in advance.

Randall Davey Audubon Center

Saturday 8:30am bird walks, nice hiking trail, loaner binoculars at the visitor center. A peaceful morning activity.

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

The world's largest hot air balloon festival, held each October — hundreds of balloons fill the sky at once. An hour south of Santa Fe.