Hoodoo You Love? Where to Go to Experience these Wild Rock Formations in New Mexico.

Hoodoos of Bisti Badlands and Tent Rocks National Park

New Mexico’s Otherworldly Wonder: Exploring the Hoodoos of Bisti Badlands and Tent Rocks National Park

New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, holds secrets beyond its iconic turquoise skies and cacti-studded landscapes. Venture off the beaten path and be transported to otherworldly terrain where ancient geology sculpts stunning rock formations – the Hoodoos of Bisti Badlands and the Tent Rocks of Tent Rocks National Monument.

Bisti Badlands: Whispers of Ancient Rivers and Dinosaurs

Also known as “De-Na-Zin: (Deh-nah-zin), which are the Navajo words for “Cranes.”

Nestled in the northwest corner of New Mexico, the Bisti Badlands unveil a surreal landscape, a stark canvas painted by millions of years of erosion. Wind and water sculpted the once lush floodplains into a labyrinth of towering pinnacles, hoodoos, and canyons. These “hoodoos,” weathered sandstone formations reminiscent of whimsical chimneys or alien sentinels, stand guard over a silent realm where dinosaur fossils whisper tales of a bygone era.

The Apache Nation considers the Bisti Badlands to be part of their ancestral territory, and they hold cultural and spiritual connections to the landscape. Please respect the signs to stay on trails, and do not take anything you did not bring with you.

Activities:

  • Hiking: Weave through a maze of hoodoos on the Bisti Badlands Trail, a 5.5-mile loop offering panoramic vistas and close encounters with these geological wonders. Remember, leave no trace and stick to designated trails to protect this fragile ecosystem.
  • Photography: Capture the stark beauty of the Bisti Badlands at sunrise or sunset, when the shadows cast dramatic silhouettes across the landscape. Remember, permits are required for commercial photography.
  • Fossil Hunting: Keep your eyes peeled for fossilized remnants of dinosaurs, fish, and plants that once called this area home. Remember, finding fossils is fun, but collecting fossils is strictly prohibited.

Tent Rocks National Monument: Nature’s Eroded Teepees

Just south of Santa Fe, nestled amidst the Jemez Mountains, Tent Rocks National Monument presents a mesmerizing spectacle. Millions of years of volcanic ash and erosion transformed the landscape into a surreal forest of towering cone-shaped hoodoos resembling ancient teepees. These “tent rocks,” named for their resemblance to some Native American dwellings, stand sentinel over a rugged, otherworldly terrain.

The Cochiti Pueblo has ancestral ties to the land now encompassed by the Tent Rocks National Monument. Their cultural traditions and oral histories hold deep knowledge of the area’s geological and ecological significance, informing their commitment to its preservation. Please respect the signs to stay on trails, and do not take anything you did not bring with you.

Activities:

  • Hiking: Lace up your boots and explore the network of trails winding through the tent rocks. The Mesa Top Trail offers stunning views, while the Slot Canyon Trail provides a thrilling walk through narrow passages between towering formations.
  • Rock Climbing: Experienced climbers can challenge themselves on the steep, smooth faces of the tent rocks. Permits are required for climbing.
  • Birding: Keep your ears and eyes peeled for diverse bird species such as hawks, owls, and even wild turkeys making their home amongst the rocks.

Planning Your Otherworldly Adventure:

Both Bisti Badlands and Tent Rocks National Monument offer a unique escape from the ordinary. Remember, these are remote areas with limited facilities. Plan ahead, pack plenty of water and snacks, and dress for the weather. Be aware of flash flood risks, especially during the rainy season.

So, leave the familiar behind and embark on a journey to two of New Mexico’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Stand beneath the silent sentinels of the Bisti Badlands, let your imagination soar under the watchful gaze of the Tent Rocks, and discover the magic that hides in plain sight in the heart of the Land of Enchantment.

Bonus Tip: Combine your otherworldly adventure with a visit to nearby Chaco Culture National Historical Park, home to ancient Puebloan ruins, or the vibrant city of Santa Fe, brimming with art, culture, and delectable cuisine.

Make your New Mexico adventure unforgettable by stepping into these otherworldly landscapes and marveling at the power of nature’s sculpting hand. Happy exploring!