Growing up, I was always told to stop looking down when I hike. I can’t help it. My eyes naturally and automatically fixate on the ground in front of me so as to scan the safety of the area I’m treading on. This habit of mine was broken, however, when I visited Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument.
Weaving my way through the slot canyon trail’s narrow path, my eyes willingly leave their comfort zone to absorb the natural curvature of the rocks surrounding me. I wonder if I’ve ever seen a case of erosion so elegant – as if the millions of years of wind and water were aided by a paintbrush.
The volcanic rock and ash that make up the unique landscape were formed by a volcanic explosion that occurred 6.7 million years ago, from the nearby Jemez Volcanic Field. The tent rocks, or erosional cones that are also called “hoodoos,” are geological features similar to those found in Cappadocia, Turkey. Most of the hoodoos have something called a capstone at the top of the formation, which acts as a barrier from further erosion for the rest of the cone. The population of these hoodoos are greater once out of the slot canyon trail, as you make your way up to the top of the mesa.
This ascent requires some strategic maneuvering. While most of trail is a relatively easy, sun-soaked path upward, there are certain sections that involve utilizing the geological wonders around you, such as using foot and hand holds to hoist yourself up onto higher parts of the trail. This section presented some of my favorite challenges, since it added some adventure to the beautiful natural surroundings.
After about 30 minutes of hiking and mild scrambling, I reach the top. Sitting on a rock under the shade of a juniper tree, I’m able to take in a panoramic landscape that is so quintessentially New Mexican: endless blue skies and mountain ranges as far as the eye can see.
Plan an adventure to Tent Rocks with Santa Fe Walkabouts. Take a magical walk through the slot canyon and witness the amazing art work that Mother Nature created.
