Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks

A National Monument, and new to us, the scenic Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks was designated a Monument in 2001for protection of its unique geologic landscapes. The Monument is known for its light-colored, cone-shaped tent rock formations that are the result of explosive volcanic eruptions that occurred between 6 and 7 million years ago.

https://www.blm.gov/nlcs_web/sites/nm/st/en/prog/NLCS/KKTR_NM.html

There are three trails at the Monument and we hiked all three. (You'll need to click on the pictures to enlarge them in order to fully appreciate the beauty.)

Canyon Trail -

Entrance to the Canyon Trail where we got our first glimpse of the Tent Rock formations.

Heading into the canyon.

Just as we entered the canyon, there is a large ponderosa pine with roots that have been extensively exposed by water and wind over the years.

There were several spots where there was just one-way traffic through the canyon.

Wind and water have sensuously carved out this inspiring, miniature canyon that enveloped us as we emerged from the slot canyon.

The sky appears a deeper blue that provides a dramatic backdrop for the still-forming tent rocks.

The trail climbed out of the canyon to the top where we had some great 360 degree views.

It was great seeing the Tent Rocks from the top.

Great views of this group of Tent Rocks.

Back down through the Slot Canyon.

 Cave Loop -

From the Canyon Trail we turned right onto the Cave Loop Trail - and there's the cave! This cave didn't occur naturally, but was made by humans.

Continuing along the Cave Loop Trail we entered a Tent Rock "village".

Up-close and personal with a Tent Rock.

Tent Rocks forming on the edge of the canyon walls.

Veterans' Memorial Scenic Overlook -

From the trailhead of the Canyon and Cave trails we drove, very slowly, up a 3.5-mile un-improved gravel road to a stunning overlook at the Veterans' Memorial.

The Santa Fe Range in the Sangre de Christo Mountains are the snow-covered peaks in the background. The Cerros del Rio, with the Rio Grande at the base of the ridge below.  

On the way back down to the trailhead, we had a back view of the ridge 3 pictures above.

Hundreds of Tent Rocks!

Today's combined hikes:

Length - 4.77 miles

Duration - 2 hours, 55 minutes

Elevation gain - 680 feet (68 feet on the Fitbit)