36 Best Stops Between Santa Fe and Grand Canyon National Park
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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Santa Fe to Grand Canyon National Park?
The direct drive from Santa Fe to Grand Canyon National Park is 470 mi (757 km), and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 57 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Santa Fe to Grand Canyon National Park, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Sedona, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, Williams, Jerome, and Cottonwood, as well as top places to visit like El Rancho de las Golondrinas and Bradbury Science Museum, or the ever-popular Broken Saddle Riding Co.
Top cities between Santa Fe and Grand Canyon National Park
The top cities between Santa Fe and Grand Canyon National Park are Sedona, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, Williams, Jerome, and Cottonwood. Sedona is the most popular city on the route. It's 6 hours from Santa Fe and 3 hours from Grand Canyon National Park.
The biggest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque, is located in the arid desert. Its contemporary downtown area contrasts with Old Town Albuquerque, which dates back to its establishment as a Spanish colony in 1706. Old Town comprises of numerous historic adobe structures including San Felipe de Neri Church and five museums featuring Native American handicrafts for sale. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center nearby traces the history of tribal communities in the region.
57% as popular as Sedona
4 minutes off the main route, 14% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
Jerome is a town in central Arizona. The Mine Museum explores Jerome's history as a booming copper-mining town. Jerome State Historic Park is home to Douglas Mansion, built in 1916 by a mining magnate. Nearby, Audrey Headframe Park has a glass viewing platform over a 1918 mine shaft. Art galleries and small wineries dot the downtown area. To the east, Tuzigoot National Monument preserves an ancient hilltop pueblo.
4% as popular as Sedona
1 hour off the main route, 68% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
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Cottonwood, located in Yavapai County, Arizona, is a city with a population of 11,265 as per the 2010 census. This municipality boasts stunning natural beauty and is situated near the picturesque Verde River. The city offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing for visitors and residents to enjoy. In addition to its natural attractions, Cottonwood has several museums that showcase the history of the area.
5% as popular as Sedona
1 hour off the main route, 69% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
Sedona is a desert town in Arizona, situated close to Flagstaff and is surrounded by stunning red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. It has a mild climate and an active arts community. The Uptown Sedona area has plenty of New Age shops, spas, and galleries. Several trailheads on the outskirts of the town lead to Red Rock State Park where one can indulge in bird-watching, hiking or picnicking activities.
Most popular city on this route
52 minutes off the main route, 70% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
Flagstaff, located in Arizona, is a city surrounded by desert, mountains and pine forests. This area serves as a gateway to the San Francisco Peaks where the tallest peak in Arizona, Humphreys Peak can be found along with the popular ski resort of Arizona Snowbowl. Within close proximity lies Wupatki National Monument which features Native American pueblo sites and Walnut Canyon National Monument showcasing cliff dwellings from ancient times.
28% as popular as Sedona
5 minutes off the main route, 75% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
I'll never travel to Grand Canyon National Park without this trip planner again
Williams, situated in the north of Arizona, is renowned for being the entrance to Grand Canyon National Park through the Grand Canyon Railway. The city offers a nostalgic feel with its Americana-style shops and restaurants that date back to the early 1900s on Historic Route 66. It boasts several attractions such as Pete's Route 66 Gas Station Museum and the Route 66 Zipline, both displaying significant highway memorabilia.
26% as popular as Sedona
5 minutes off the main route, 80% of way to Grand Canyon National Park
Best stops along Santa Fe to Grand Canyon National Park drive
The top stops along the way from Santa Fe to Grand Canyon National Park (with short detours) are Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sandia Peak Tramway, and Old Town. Other popular stops include Meteor Crater Natural Landmark, Walnut Canyon National Monument, and Bell Rock.
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Broken Saddle Riding Co
Horseback riding service
Outdoor Activities
Stable
Horseback Riding Tours
We are beginners but Harold did a great job going over horseback riding safety. Brad is great Wrangler/guide and we all came home safe. My 14 year old daughter had a blast and it was her first time. Highly recommend this company.
Dan V — Google review
Spectacular experience. Best thing I've done in New Mexico! Harold is the easiest and best guide. Was extremely clear and simple about how to ride and enjoy. The trail was surprisingly hilly and Rocky which made for fantastic views but also not your run-of-the mill trail ride. Ups and downs on the trail made it really interesting. 5 in our group and Harold kept an easy eye on all while letting us do the ride andamage the horses. All beautiful horses.
carol lebold — Google review
Awesome experience!! Joe (our guide) was very knowledgeable and friendly!! My horse and my wife's horse (Duke + Lily) were great to us inexperienced riders. Felt safe and comfortable the whole time. Give it a try the next time you're in SF!!
Michael Trojahn — Google review
No-frills, humble horseback ride. Definitely not a tourist trap. The instructors are serious about safety. You ride up the mountain to absolutely beautiful views, then back down. Wear jeans, boots, hat/sunblock. Also, it's dusty. It's the desert. If you're not familiar with riding, it may be a little scary. I loved every second!
Kristen Powell Williams — Google review
best thing i did on my last visit to santa fe. (actually i’m still on this visit and might go again.)
they take good care of their horses. they group people out by riding level so beginners need not be scared that they’ll do too much and ppl who want to go faster can have their fun. our guide brad was charming adorbs. and yes the scenery is really as beauty as ppl say.
thanks guys for a great experience.
B C — Google review
thank you so much for this beautiful trail ride on very well trained and motivated horses, one of the best trail rides we ever did!
the ride is only in small groups up to 5 people which makes the experience even better and more personal. you can tell the horses are being treated very well and they love what they do. If we get the chance, we will definitely come again!
Michelle Mollet — Google review
We read some of the reviews before we came however I say no matter what always give an individual a chance and go off of your own opinion.
Harold was amazing, very personable, gave us a great tour, his lessons while on that tour have surpassed many lessons that I received when horseback riding at other places. I learned so much from him. The sunset ride that we went on and the trail was absolutely breathtaking and he offered to take our picture at the top for us. Thanks for going above and beyond Harold you definitely have our business when we come back to Santa Fe and we let the in know about you as well for great recommendations.
Lea Flores Guide — Google review
My daughters have enjoyed riding here more than once and always came home smiling. Recently we took some photos with their beautiful horses and gorgeous scenery (with permission of course). The owner was so generous and kind. I really appreciated his generosity.
Jeri Timlin — Google review
We went for an afternoon ride. There were four of us, including one child and one senior. We had an absolutely amazing time! The ride includes breathtaking views. The horses are beautiful. This was a wonderful experience. You are even greeted by Sasha, the cutest little terrier!
Steven PG — Google review
My 14-year-old son and I, both novices, had a fabulous experience. Harold is a terrific guide, and the route is really beautiful. Thrilling and safe at the same time. I'd recommend to anyone and would come back in a heartbeat. Thank you!
Michael Wilson — Google review
Most excellent experience. Wife and kids rode a couple years ago, wife and I did it again this spring. Brad is a great guide, Shadow and Cisco are great horses. Definitely on our to-do list when we get back to NM.
Mike Latimer — Google review
Edit for 2021: We tried to do a trail ride again during the week of thanksgiving 2021, and made reservations for a specific day. As it turns out the old man on the phone had written down the wrong date, and when we called to double check we were met with hostility. “I don’t need you people to tell me what to do” direct quote. And then he cancelled our reservation altogether and did not refund us.
Amazing experience. Lovely guides and beautiful trails. I recommend going in the morning when it is cooler during the summer. Loads of fun for all experience levels
chloe howrey — Google review
This was so fun and such a pleasure to experience. The horses were gorgeous, friendly, and well cared for. Harold is an absolute legend/was a great tour guide and made riding even more enjoyable. I would suggest this experience for anyone who wants to ride and check out the scenery!
Miranda Stein — Google review
I took my 10 year old daughter for an 1hr and 15 minute ride and couldn't have experienced anything better. We were both inexperienced riders and our guide was very informative and made us feel comfortable. It was absolutely beautiful and we had an amazing time. Definitely an unforgettable experience.
El Rancho de las Golondrinas is a living Spanish village that offers visitors an immersive experience of how people lived in history. The village includes a hacienda, schoolhouse, and village store staffed by costumed workers. Visitors can also see a working water mill and enjoy reasonable prices for the time spent there. It is suggested to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection and plan for a picnic. The museum offers free guided tours with knowledgeable guides who allow interaction with most exhibits.
A beautiful, well-kept piece of history. Went on many memorable school field trips here as a kid, and it still holds that wonder. Just visited for Harvest Festival, which was a fun time; great weather, decent vendors, and some quirky people-watching to be had.
Laura Misgen — Google review
An amazing step back into time. The historical volunteers were outstanding. Your kids can see how people live in history. They even have a working water mill, that they use from time to time. Prices are reasonable for the time you will spend there.
Tips: wear good walking/hiking shoes, wear hat, sunglasses, suntan lotion, bring water, even plan a picnic
Raymond Burgess — Google review
Always come here during the Viva Mexico festival. Lovely museum and there's always someone hanging around the section or building there to explain the history of the building and how life was like back then. Definitely bring some good walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat or umbrella for shade, and a water bottle. They do have water refill stations by I've only seen one near the school house and the bathrooms near the entrance.
Marisol Mor?n - Garcia — Google review
Incredible isn't the word. Breath taking. You must visit their annual spirits festival to see performances. Eat tasty treats. Learn new Mexico history!
Neema Kamaria — Google review
We visited quite late in the season so unfortunately it was a self guided tour. There is a map with numbered stops on it to tell you the names of the different locations. Very tranquil and pretty at this time of the year, but will have to return for when the guides are present to hear about the workings of the ranch.
Gerard Sullivan — Google review
We attended during the Spirits of Halloween event. This place is a great living history museum with a lot to see. Going in October, it was beautiful with the leaves changing colours. It is a large place with a lot of walking. I wish the event could have started a few hours earlier so we would ve had enough time to see everything. It was a fun time.
Heather Moran — Google review
There is a free guided tour. We enjoyed the tour very much. The entire place is well preserved, and they allow you to interact with most of the exhibits. The guide is very nice and knowledgeable.
Lena Gu — Google review
wonderful 18th century reenactment area with lots to do. we ended up spending several hours wondering the around. there's old churches and graveyards to visit, wine making, an old school blacksmith, peeps in colonial uniforms, a genuine 4 generations of one family making chili pepper crafts, loom and spinning lessons and much much more...
food trucks provide varied fare and local artisans and farmers sell goods and produce.
Jules C (popmonkey) — Google review
We were very surprised at how much we enjoyed our visit here! We took a guided tour and Jerry was a wealth of knowledge. We really got a sense of the life and times on the ranch. Each area has a knowledgeable volunteer in period clothing explaining the building. We expected to walk through in about an hour, but enjoyed talking to the staff so much we were there almost 4 hours.
Cindy Althouse — Google review
We were here attending a beer and food festival. The knowledgeable volunteer staff of the museum ranch were all working to demonstrate life in the 1800s, working weavers, blacksmiths, tanners, bakers. There are beautiful hiking paths as part of the property and nice nooks to escape the festival. Very family friendly. Also if you buy a year membership you get free access to festivals.
Kim Margaret Wheeler — Google review
Beautiful place to see history and get grounded. I recommend it if one needs a break from the daily grind! We had a fabulous time and plan to visit often!
CYNTHIA HICKS PADILLA — Google review
We went for the Living museum days, where volunteers dressed up and demonstrated the many activities on the farm. It was amazing!! They did such a good job teaching the kids, and having hands-on activities. The tin stars were a favorite - make sure you get there early and back to that shop - it is a bottleneck of students. There is a lot of walking, some hills. I had a stroller, and was able to get most places. Just for your information, doesn't take away from the experience at all - The path to the chapel up on the hill (between schoolhouse and mill) is NOT stroller friendly. It is obvious from the mill side bc there are only stairs, but not from the school side. Plus the church was not as viewable as the one in the main activity areas, so if you want to see the graveyard, go....otherwise just walk on the flat/tree path!
jennifer nix — Google review
A very unexpected find for us. We thought it was much smaller and would be a quick trip, but we ended up staying for over 3 hours and it ended up being one of our favorite stops. The volunteers throughout were so nice and acted as tour guides that brought the whole place to life for adult, teens and kids alike. I was amazed at how much they all knew about all aspects of life and history over the years. Very interesting and educational for all ages.
Nadia P — Google review
School event, so price is unknown? But this place hosts many different events: Ren Festival, harvest festival and beer and wine garden according to the hostess. Very nice drive to this location, off the beaten path, very narrow roads, drive diligently! Dirt parking lot and entire property, so dress accordingly. Have a good time!
Lawrence Talahongva — Google review
We went for the harvest festival this year, and although there was a bunch of people, we still had a good time. My kid was able to step on cherries with her bare feet to make wine. We got to walk all over the place and ask a bunch of valid questions with detailed answers.
Lelia Herrera — Google review
wow! this place is increíble! it’s an amazing / beautiful ranch full of different stations with generous volunteers explaining and showing the traditional way of life that existed historically. the admission is ridiculously low. the rancho is a true gem and it’s so generous of the folks who own/run it to provide this live resource to the community.
Nina G — Google review
Such a magical place whether you’re going on a school field trip or visiting for the Renaissance fair such a cool place. This past weekend I visited the Renaissance fair for the first time it was one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen or been to everybody dressed up the vendors, all the activities. It was so much fun I can’t wait to plan next year.
The Bradbury Science Museum is a place where visitors can learn about the development of the atomic bomb and its political implications, as well as current research in medical and computer sciences. The museum features 35 interactive exhibits that cover topics ranging from natural defense to nuclear weapons. Two short films provide an overview of the Manhattan Project's history and the Lab's role in maintaining the nuclear stockpile. The museum offers hands-on areas for both children and adults to explore, providing insights into various scientific studies.
Excellent museum. There are only a few places in the world to see history of the Manhattan Project or similar. Regardless of what you think about this aspect of world history, this place exhibits things that will help you refine your thoughts. Some of the exhibits explained things my Manhattan Project professors told me about, 40 years ago.
Harry Miley — Google review
Super cool museum. Informative, interesting, interactive, and sobering!
Nicely wheelchair accessible too.
I appreciated that there was a changing table in the bathroom for larger kids/adults. That's really rare, in fact, this is my first time seeing it. It wasn't needed for us, but I'm sure it really makes a difference for some families.
Bean Noneya — Google review
We learned so much about the historical events surrounding the war and how and why the U.S. eventually utilized nuclear weapons. It was FREE and very informative.
STRYKEN the Band — Google review
Great museum - packed with information! Two films (one on the Manhattan Project in Los Alamos, one on Oppenheimer), several hands-on exhibits (one on radioactivity and some that relate to current Los Alamos National Lab research), tons to well-laid-out and informative signs to read, and many models on display. Spent about 3 hours there and didn't read everything. Highly recommend for those interested in the history of the area and the Manhattan Project.
Rachel Wallen — Google review
This was one of the best museums I have ever visited. Free admission, they just ask for your zip code. Sunday was a good day to visit since there weren’t a lot of people. I’d suggest to start with a 15 minute movie in auditorium to get to know overall history after which you will recognize items from the movie. Very friendly staff.
Artem Metelskiy — Google review
Very interesting and informative! I learned a lot about Los Alamos. there are 2 films to watch. Kids as well as adults will enjoy this museum. There are many hands on areas and the science behind the different studys.
Kip (Kip) — Google review
Was here to visit the national park visitors center, but was suggested to come here as well. Tons of hands on activities for the kids, interactive exhibits, updated science and everything was in great shape and new. Best of all, price was FREE. Don't miss this, my kids spent at least an hour on all the activities.
Daniel J — Google review
There's a lot of information crammed into this place! It doesn't just cover the Manhattan project, but so many other STEM topics as well. The two films are well done and have great information. There are interactive exhibits and activities for kids. Best of all, it's FREE. Thanks for a great visit!
L Moore — Google review
Really enjoyed visiting here. So much stuff packed into such a small space. I understand this place is funded by Los Alamos Labs and I totally understand why they do it. When my 19 year old daughter left she said, "Oh, my gosh what a cool place! I want to go work for Los Alamos Labs when I finish college!" If that's not a ringing endorsement of what they're doing there then I don't know what is!
Kenneth Adams — Google review
GREAT OUT OF THE WAY MUSEUM!! I came here after visiting the Los Alamos Museum of History, and to my surprise took the Oppenheimer theme to a higher level! Their information is demonstrated with better displays, video programs, and visual displays. There is MUCH MORE than just Los Alamos and Manhattan Project science information here. But if you want to take in the entire science museum, you need to plan for at least 3+ hours. But be aware that they close early-- 5 pm. If you are like me-- driving in from afar, manage your time to get here no later than 2 pm. I got here at 4 pm, so I only had one hour to take in what I could in 1 hour. But this place is definitely worth the visit! :-)
Manuel “Manny” — Google review
Cool museum for history buffs. Certainly a historic location. Lots to read and learn about. And it's free!
Alex L — Google review
Fantastic informative center about the history of the Manhattan project.
More detailed information. Info on personal and artifacts from the time.
Amazing place to check out, even if only in town for a day
Al Caldealer — Google review
History nerds gather here and soak it up. Amazing experience and FREEEEEE. Want to know the history of the atom bomb? It’s all here including replicas of Little Man and Fat Boy.
Shannon Cox — Google review
Very interesting and well organized museum covering the history of the World War II Manhattan Project. It also highlights the Laboratory's research projects related to defense and technology. Covering a very important part of American history and the importance of Los Alamos in those crucial days in harnessing nuclear energy. It’s free, so that’s even better. It was also kinda interesting to see where I currently work on display.
Glenn Robertson — Google review
A very informative museum with free admission, clean bathrooms, and a water station - thank you! The two onsite movies were very detailed and provided a lot of context. There was a lot of history about the Los Alamos atomic weapons development and some interactive opportunities for children, too. 1-2 hours recommended.
Museum with Ross Ward's elaborate handmade dioramas of Old West scenes & antique toys.
Tremendous treasure grove of authentic circus memorabilia and truly inspiring outsider art. Warm and gracious hostesses. Lots of old timey penny arcade machines and magnificent dioramas and wild west facades. A fun kid oriented gift shop w games and toys and puppets. If yr in the area. Dont miss this one.
seana miracle — Google review
I lived in Albuquerque for like 6 years and I moved away so on my trip back there this year we came across this amazing place. So much to look at think about and do. I would so take my family back there when I come next to visit it was truly amazing. Amazing staff and we got to meet the man's wife who still lives on the property she is a kinda and amazing woman herself. She has kept up the place and is such a sweet soul.
KSK H — Google review
An unusual museum, but interesting stop below the Mountains Sandias. Closed for the winter Nov 1st-April 1st...not sure if that means every winter however, best to check. I had gone there in the warmer season. Nice store inside and nice folks. ...A charming place. Pictures give you an idea of how it is put together. But stop in to see it and get a feeling of the place yourself...in the warmer seasons if you're near the area or passing through.
Close to Cedar Crest.
Zapcode Knock — Google review
This is one of the most interesting places I have been to in years. The love is seen in the hours of work/hobby time put into this place. It is a gem worth the drive up to. Price is cheap for the enjoyment you get out of this place. The have built displays are amazing. You kids will be amazed. Old or young this is a must go adventure
Raymond Burgess — Google review
The 5 star rating is well-deserved. Come in and deep dive into a great collection and exhibition of toys and various other funny and interesting things. We had a great time and enjoyed our visit.
Walter Rothe — Google review
Awesome facility with so much history. Claire the owner is extremely friendly and available to answer some of the questions you will have about the exhibits. There are so many fascinating pieces & so much history!
I was concerned I might not be able to get through in my power chair, that was not the case - I was able to navigate over 95% of it.
One downside? Plan on spending more time than you originally anticipated, everywhere you look there is just more to see 😁
Richard Marshall — Google review
Unusual location, on the way to Sandia Ski Resort. Unfortunately, it is closed for the winter season. Would definitely be interested to visit after seeing how it looks from side of the road.
Artem Metelskiy — Google review
It is definitely "unique". The drive was scenic. But walking thruout the museum one has to appreciate the amount of time, dedication and love that went into this place. A lifetime of art to look at from wood carvings, art walls, a boat and quarter machine. Bring quarters! The gift shop was also amazing, not for it's charm and souvenirs but pricing for gift shop items was more than fair. I honestly appreciate that they don't price gouge!
M. Hay — Google review
A really cool experience! Very talented man who spent his life collecting and making these little scenes- and whole place!! Certainly for kids of all ages, this is something to see!
LAURA RUSHING — Google review
Great place to go and see. Bring a few dollars worth of quarters to use the antique machines/games. Stop by Ribs. 12220 NM-14, Cedar Crest, NM 87008
on the way back to Albuquerque...great BBQ
Eugene Paulsen — Google review
If you happen to be on the Turquoise Trail, this is a great place to stop and see the creations of folk artist Ross Ward. It was only $8 to get into the museum. However, if you don’t have the money or time--there is a lot of free things to see on the outside of the museum.
JoAnn SkyWatcher — Google review
Place is nice and the staff. Little pricey in the gift shop but it’s pretty interesting over all. New comers get a free dollar in quarters. Also I would use the restroom before visiting at the shell gas station. There’s only one porta potty there.
SJ — Google review
One of the most unique roadside attractions still around. The drive up towards Sandia Crest is spectacular and this place should not be missed! It can be uneven and slightly tilted in places which makes it challenging for those with walking difficulties. The artistry and creativity of one man’s vision are just joyful!
Leslie Rangel — Google review
What an amazing place. It seems this place was one man’s dream and creation and all he spent his spare time building. Apparently he also managed to find time to have a family, but seeing all of this makes you wonder how. Just amazing.
Gerry Davison — Google review
40 years of collections displayed as a time capsule, workshops and studio also restored. Give yourself an hour or more to take it all in. Great gift shop .
ken crimmins — Google review
My son enjoyed the museum. He hadn't been since he was around 5 and he's 11 now.
Daniela Lujan — Google review
Tinker town is always such a fun experience with family and friends. I have been taking my kids since they were infants and they have new experiences every time they go. Thank you Tinker Town !
Bandelier National Monument is home to ancient human settlements dating back to approximately 11,000 years ago. The park boasts a rocky canyon and mesa terrain, with notable ruins such as Big Kiva and the Tyuonyi ruins that were originally built in the 14th century. Visitors can explore later caves carved out of soft volcanic rock along the cliff face and even climb short ladders into the alcoves. The Main Loop Trail, spanning about 1.
This was a great experience. Pretty nature hike through the woods while also being able to see authentic Native American cave dwellings that you can go inside. Bring sneakers, lots of water, and snacks. Plan to be there a couple hours to enjoy the trails, cave dwellings and scenery. We walked the main loop then headed to the Alcove. It took us 2.5 hours round trip. Overall it was a great experience and I recommend.
MA 13 — Google review
This is an awesome little gem in New Mexico. If you’re interested in historical places, you’ll love this beautiful place. There are ancestral Puebloan dwellings well preserved in the faces of the cliffs. They’ve setup a few of them for access to explore, which is a really cool experience. There are some really great hikes, and the best are the ones that take you through the entire dwelling areas and then to the Alcove House (which to get to the Alcove you’ll have to climb up 3 tall wooden ladders, and a few short ones). I highly recommend doing the Alcove House, but be warned, if you’re not good with heights, then you may want to view from the ground. Another great hike was the Falls Trail, which takes you to a beautiful waterfall. PLEASE BE RESPECTFUL OF THE AREA!! One of the dwellings was closed off from exploration thanks to vandalism, which is just so disgusting. Please don’t ruin the experience for others! If you’re ever in the area, check it out! Very beautiful and peaceful hikes, and a very unique place.
Ashley Fountain — Google review
Majestic and awe inspiring. We camped at the Juniper site, hiked the Frey trail to the ruins... It was around 5:30pm and we had the whole monument to ourselves besides a couple other folks.
Davis Xiong — Google review
I loved this place. I got my fill of adventure. I saw amazing pueblos, snakes, bears and I climbed up to some incredible views. If you plan to visit, I would recommend bringing extra water or Gatorade and a few hours to enjoy yourself. I would set aside at the very least 4 to 5 hours. The trail is short, but there are other trails on the loop to explore and I don't recommend missing them.
Lisa Wiggin — Google review
Such an underrated place! Amazing historical site and absolutely beautiful scenery! To think that people 1000 years ago live in these caves is simply unbelievable! And the creeks carved out these canyons! Amazing what time could do
Bryce R — Google review
An amazing place. We took a chance on stopping by on our way home from Colorado. Turned out to be a wise choice. Both Visitor Centers were interesting and the volunteers extremely helpful. The short bus ride was nice, got to pay attention to the scenery not the driving. The canyon views are beautiful. The village and cliff dwellings are viewed by a short hike and the additional hike to The Alcove House is worth it. The plant and wildlife are abundant. I hope they give this national treasure National Park status soon, consider it is one of the older monuments. BTW...the Park Cafe have excellent bison and elk burgers, excellent fare for after the hike.
Brent Frerck — Google review
One of the most unique places in the country. Def a must see. We went first week of April and it was great. Not a ton of people. Hike is fairly easy. There is a trail that is off the main loop that looked difficult. You climb 2-3 sets of ladders to get to top. On main trail, there’s Multiple ladders you can climb to see inside the houses. You will have to wait if you wanna climb as people take pictures. Plan at least a half day to enjoy. Maybe more in summer. Remember leave no trace. One was blocked off due to damage done by visitors. Overall amazing experience to walk back in time and see how people lived.
Joel Collishaw — Google review
Really cool monument. One of the cooler things I saw while going around New Mexico.
Pros:
Old structures, artifacts, great information, and you can GET IN the old structures. Climb ladders, walk on trails, etc. to get up to these old places. One of them was like 150 feet up a cliff face!
Cons:
Not super easy to get around. I had a hard time finding my way to some of the more obscure places, partially because I had no service there. The main loop trail is easy enough to follow, but there are a lot of branching trails and places where I could have missed something cool. It was also very hot and the water fountains were not working.
All that being said, the pros outweigh the cons, super cool
Adam N-A — Google review
So captivating to take a glimpse into how the Pueblo natives lived. Definitely gives you perspective how intelligent they are, and their way of life and how functional their way of lives were. You have to look hard but you can see a lot of petroglyphs up high. I wish I could of rent one of these caves for the night. I will say from the parking lot I feel like I'm watched from something on top of the right Ridge.
Vanessa Maldonado — Google review
I’ve always want to see cave dwellings and finally got to check it out. Pretty quick drive from Albuquerque. We got on a bus at the visitor center in town and they take you up to the park. We had a National park card so got in for free. Short walk and you can see the dwellings. Really cool place. You can climb a few ladders and go inside. Just a really interesting place and I would recommend to anyone interested in history
Wes Southerly — Google review
Although the ranger at the welcome centre wasn’t too welcoming everything else about this place is outstanding. Download the guide with a qr code for detailed explanation as you you follow the trails. The trail itself is often shaded by trees, the cliff houses accessible but I fear in tourist season this may be crowded!
Stop at the cafe, great food!
Catherine Shawarby — Google review
Great historical site of the Pueblo Indians. Before you start, I recommend spending the $2 (cash) and getting the trail guide booklet sold in the gift shop or visitors center. It has great info - especially if you are not taking a tour by a ranger. When you're done, stop in the cafe for a bite. It was really good! Better than I expected. Overall, it was a very memorable experience!
Lisa — Google review
Site tour of Frijoles Canyon is incredibly interesting and very accessible (paved, with section of steps). The narrated audio is worth it to add to the self-guided map. Would love to hike in the backcountry here someday, but the loop trail at the visitors center is very worthwhile.
Jon N. — Google review
One of the coolest and most engaging national monuments I've been to! The Pueblo Loop Trail is a must-do for any first-time visitor. Spent around 3 hours here.
Went in early Oct, visitors from 9am-3pm were required to take a free shuttle from the White Rock Visitor Center to the Bandelier Visitor Center due to limited parking. It was a ~25min ride. We were greeted by a park ranger who gave us a group briefing of the park. The Visitor Center was a complex of multiple buildings, including a museum, theater room, restaurant, and gift shop. The gift shop had a large selection of high-quality goods and even had Pueblo pottery from native craftspeople.
The Pueblo Loop Trail is the most popular. You're able to walk alongside the cliff dwellings and even climb wooden ladders 🪜 into a few of them! There are some steep, winding steps and (optional) ladders without railings in those portions of the trail that people with limited mobility may find difficult. Still, the ladder climbing makes for a very novel experience.
The final portion of the trail is to the Alcove house, which is an alcove 140 ft up in the cliff face. The ascent/descent involves four long wooden ladders and steep stone steps. It takes some time/waiting since there is only a single ladder for people going up and coming down. The view from the top is nice, but the journey itself was probably the main experience.
It was incredible to walk through all this imagining how multiple generations of people used to live in and at the base of these cliffs.
Leave no trace!
Tony Lin — Google review
Very cool place to visit. Did the main loop trail which allows you to go in some of the dwellings. Alcove house is closed due to snow and ice currently. Would like to go back.
Ashley Thomas — Google review
Very nice monument. The hikes are easy and not too long so my 11 year-old son really enjoyed it. Very interesting pueblo people houses carved into the rock.
We went to this monument when the balloon festival occurred, so it was not crowded at all (since everyone was at Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta).
Explore the vast Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument and discover its unique geological beauty. Immerse yourself in nature as you trek through slot canyons and witness cone-shaped rock formations that will take your breath away. This heavily trafficked park offers serenity, palpable energy, and stunning vistas regardless of whether you make it to the top or not.
Best place I visited. I had to hike through trails and up a mountain to get to see the tent rocks from above but it was great.
Matthew — Google review
Go in the early spring before it gets too warm. Bring a cooler, and have lunch after. This is a great hike that is fun for all ages. The higher you get you will need to help smaller kids along.
Carla Frazier — Google review
Stunning views at the top of the mountain plus a cool hike up to the top with a slot canyon. I would recommend going in the morning on a weekday because there are next to no people until 10 o'clock and it is significantly cooler in the morning. Bring a bottle of water and good shoes. Amazing hike for only $5.
Logan Harmison — Google review
I love exploring the outdoors and grew up traveling to the national parks and state parks in Utah and surrounding states. This is a great hike. We saw many older people doing the hike and were so impressed! I thought it was a hike around a rim of a canyon from the pictures we've seen, but you go through the slots in the canyon, walk along the base, then go up the mountain. They have some steps, but some places can be a bit strenuous and you'll have to climb over rocks. Bring plenty of water when you go. It took us about 3 hours with kids, but they all did great! It was 106 degrees out when we went, but the breeze and shady spots made it bearable. I believe there rangers hike up to the top before 4pm and start hiking down at 4 and make everyone hike back with them even if they haven't made it to the top, for safety reasons. Great hike, get out and explore!
Kristin Bogopane — Google review
I love this place! It can be pretty hot in the summer, so go early in the morning. The slot canyon is breathtaking and the rock formations are really neat. You can hike to the top and back down in about 2.5 hours depending on your fitness level. There are times you have to climb up and over things, so keep that in mind if you have a disability or injury. This place is great for kids.
Angela Holt — Google review
Fantastic views of slot canyons and "tent rock" hoodoos. Pretty easy and scenic hike to the overlook then continue on the cave loop, a total of 3.2 miles and 839 ft of elevation. I would have liked a longer hike but the views and scenery make a visit here well worth it. Get here early though, or you'll have to wait to get in. Opens at 8am.
James Torrence — Google review
Amazing scenery on a pretty easy hike. There is a little crawling and sliding on your rear end in sections but the trail is short and the views are spectacular. The only downside is that the park has a very small capacity and once it's full you have to wait for a car to leave before you are allowed to park.
Brad Davis — Google review
Hiking the canyon trail was a great outdoor outing. It shouldn’t take more than 2 hours up and down if you take you time to admire the scenery and take pictures. The trail is very easy for the most part, and the last climb towards the summit is a little steeper but is accessible to anyone who doesn’t have any mobility issues.
I suggest to take a left towards the cave trail on your back for a short but worthwhile detour.
Marie-Ève Gagné — Google review
Amazing Place. Reminds me of a Zion National Park Narrows trail meets the Upper Antelopes in AZ. Highly recommended if your in the area and want to experience an amazing trail. In certain areas the Canyon Trail Can get a little challenging because your climbing over rocks etc but it’s definitely do able and I saw active 50 year old plus people doing it. There are also certain sections of the Cave loop trail that are very enjoyable for older individuals. I highly recommend the Canyon Trail really cool views.
Bullitt 78 — Google review
This is such a beautiful place. Heavily trafficked, so you are passing people all the time. Regardless the serenity, beauty, and palpable energy are well worth the short trek. Slightly steep toward the end however that section of the trail is closed when very icy. Still, I reiterate that this hike is well worth it whether you make it to the top or not. It is gorgeous!
William Miglino — Google review
I grew up in NM and had never had the privilege of visiting this place until now. I am still in awe of the sheer beauty! Our kiddos were also in awe of their surroundings. I highly recommend this hike! A bit steep and narrow in places, but definitely worth it!
The Sandia Peak Tramway is a 3,163-metre aerial tram that takes tourists to the top of the Sandia Mountains for an amazing view. This tourist attraction is a great way for those looking for an adventure and something different to do in Albuquerque.
So let me start off I’m not fan of heights. We bought tickets the day before which they recommend. Check in was easy with friendly staff at the front desk. The bathrooms were clean and tidy. We waited about 15 minutes to board. Once boarded the tram the tour guide / cabin operator was very informative and safety was a top priority. The the ride up is breath taking you go from Desert to Canadian geography. The tour guide was very informing on the ride up with different information on geography and history. Once up top there was snow on the ground and very cold “bring a jacket” The restaurant was closed at the time. The air is very thin so keep your breath. You can walk around and see some of the nature in the area but be careful with ice and animals. During the decent I got a little nervous cause of my height fear. But it was a smooth ride the beginning on the decent was a little stomach kicking but you get used to it. And the ride down was way better than coming up in my opinion. I recommend the people were great and very professional.
Hunter Garcia — Google review
I would say this was definitely worth the money. My one complaint (and it’s a big one) is that the tram is too packed with people to enjoy the view unless you’re directly by the window. Wait for a group to go, then get to the front of the line to fully enjoy this experience.
It’s an incredible view even if you don’t get in the restaurant. If you DO want a reservation, make sure to make one a few weeks in advance.
There’s hiking trails at the top, and the last ride of the day back down is at 9. I would pick one path or another: go up for pictures and go to the restaurant, or go to the trails.
We went the picture route this time but next year we will probably choose to do some hiking instead. Beautiful spot definitely worth seeing.
Madie Leon Riley — Google review
First and foremost, the views from the tramway are absolutely breathtaking. As you ascend the mountain, you're treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Albuquerque and the rugged Sandia Mountains. The tramway offers a unique perspective, allowing you to see the beauty of the area from a completely different vantage point. Whether you're visiting during the day or catching a sunset ride, the scenery is truly awe-inspiring.
The tram cars themselves are spacious and comfortable. They are designed to hold a large number of passengers, but even when the tram is full, there is still plenty of room to move around and enjoy the ride. The large windows provide excellent visibility, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to take in the magnificent views. The tram operators are friendly and professional, providing interesting commentary about the area and making the journey even more enjoyable.
Upon reaching the top, there are several activities and amenities to explore. The Sandia Peak Observation Deck offers a 360-degree view, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are also hiking trails for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the area on foot. The Kawanis Cabin Trail is easy enough and is worth the spectacular views.
Additionally, the weather at the top of the mountain can be cooler than in the city, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket or extra layers, especially during the colder months.
Daryl Marcelo — Google review
Was a really cool experience! The Tram going up was at capacity and didn't get a be right next to a window but still could have a pretty good view. There weren't a ton of people at the top. The hiking trails were beautiful and pretty easy to walk for most people I would say. The Tram operator was great and I wish I could remember her unique name. The views were out of this world! For a family of 4 it cost about $120 and I think it was worth it for the experience.
Jennifer McNeill — Google review
So my father and I was happy that we made the journey to the top. Being at 6,000 feet then make a trip up the tram to 10,000 feet. You have to go to the top to find out the actual total height. Got to leave a little desire. 😌 this is a hard experience for someone not used to the height but as you see the pics of the scenery were breath taken and so beautiful that I would tell anyone to go take in all that beauty. I took the pic of the bee to show that by just taking the pics of the skyline and terrain you can miss out on the flowers and beauty of nature in front of you.
Robert Trout — Google review
Despite my own extreme fear of heights, this is an experience you don't want to miss. The views of Albuquerque are extraordinary, the ride up is a little scary, but coming down was much easier. The gondola was large, and the trip up was full to capacity. Being crowded made it more difficult to see the views, but there is enough glad to make it work for everyone. Once at the top, you saw both sides of the mountain. And, if you like to hike, the ski trails are open to hikers in the summer. Even the gift shop was not only well-stocked, but very well priced. Parking is plentiful and free. You'll be glad you went.
Dennis Shuman — Google review
The Sandia Tramway up to the top of the mountain is a just beautiful and stunning view of the mountains and Albuquerque as a whole metropolitan area. If you're a tourist, this is a great thing to do for at least 2 or 3 hours. There's also a great gift shop too for the tourists. There are some great hiking trails and overall amazing picture opportunities.
Jack Voltz — Google review
Sandia Peak Tramway, located near Albuquerque, New Mexico, holds the title of the longest tramway in the USA. The journey from the base station to the mountain's top, at 10,378 feet, takes about 15 minutes each way. The trams are sturdy and adhere to strict safety protocols. The breathtaking mountain views can be enjoyed throughout the ride. At the mountain top, there's a restaurant called Ten 3, offering stunning scenic views. I visited around 4 PM and witnessed a spectacular sunset, painting the sky in fiery orange hues. Every moment was truly enjoyable. Additionally, skiing is available during the winter season.
PATHIPATI VENKATESH — Google review
This is the longest trams in the USA. Get your tickets online and be prepared to stand in line a while. Trust me, it's worth every penny. At the top of the mountain you'll find a nice restaurant TEN3. Great views from wither the bar area or the main dining room.
Lemmie Klein — Google review
Very cool experience 😎 Definitely recommend! We purchased tram tickets last minute as we were passing through town. We arrived and once in line to board, the wait was about 45 minutes. The views were beautiful even from the line! The ride took about 15 minutes and was stunning! You pass over a few canyons and valleys, so the views are constantly changing. Once at the top, the temperature was a brisk 35 degrees (25 degrees colder than on the ground)! We weren't able to eat at the restaurant, but they did allow us to buy cocktails and enjoy outside. So many photo ops, and we'll kept grounds.
Katie Zumbahlen — Google review
The tram is always always worth it. I’ve been multiple times and whether you’re a local or you’re visiting it’s always breathtaking. There are windows to go up and down (noon to 4, or 5-8) the ride is about 14 min and usually you have a good view no matter where you’re standing. If you’re visiting near sunset, make sure to head back to the line once it’s over otherwise you might miss the tram and have to wait another 30+ min. Bring a jacket too, it’s always surprisingly chilly and windy up there, but so beautiful!
Cecilia Williams — Google review
We loved the Tram. We were driving through in our RV and decided to stop and take it to the top of Sandia Peak. Enough parking for our RV although on a weekend it may be different. They don't have designated RV or bus parking. The ride up is awesome and the operator gave a nice commentary. The view from on top is great. It's 20° cooler so bring a light jacket. There is a nice restaurant on top with awesome views. We loved it.
Scott Freburg — Google review
Very cool experience! 10,300 ft overlooking Albuquerque and surrounding areas. We purchased tickets a head of time. They sell out fast! Had to wait 45-60 minutes past our time as it was the same weekend as the International Balloon Fiesta so there were many more people than normal, which was fine. The sun was shining and a small band playing which kept everyone entertained. The main facility and gift shop at the base is pretty cool. Beautiful views from the tram ride up to the top of the peak with 47ish of your closest strangers! The employees were very knowledgeable and shared many facts on the way up and down the peak. Once atop the peak, you are able to hike around the area at your leisure. There is a restaurant called ten3. Reservations are highly recommended for the main restaurant, be prepared to wait for bar seating and service, drinks and food are a bit pricey for some ($18 for specialty drinks, sandwiches $12-18, but at that moment, well, does it matter?) Be sure to hydrate before going up and bring water with you while there. The elevation change affects many so be prepared. And it’s windy and cold at the top so dress accordingly!!! Enjoy!!!
Anessa Kertesz Mueller — Google review
We enjoyed the ride up the mountain,it was beautiful. We went up towards the afternoon, so the air was a bit chilly,so I would recommend taking a light sweater if you plan on staying at the top of the peak for a while,everyone who works there is very friendly so if you have questions they will help you out or answer them. Also, if you want to get next to the window, get there early so you can be towards the front of the line,other than that if you don't mind standing in the middle of the car you're fine 😉 I also enjoyed how clean everything was,they do a very good job 😀 everyone should go here at least once and ride the tram
Liberty Walker — Google review
Kids love this experience. It is little Windy at the top and bring your jacket for sure. Per person was $27 but it was worth it. You can hike to the mountains and have fun with your family. It has a magnificent sunset. Do not forget to be careful to not miss the last tramway to go back. There are so many parking space. You need to close your stroller in the tramway and bring your water.
Hatice Kacer — Google review
Worth if you haven’t done any tramway experience before. Bit expensive. Good if you like hike as there are trails up there. Would not recommend if you just want scenic view and check mark this attraction in todo list. Wheeler peak is great place if you like scenic view. Sandia peak is good place if you need tramway experience, hiking, skiing or some scenic view.
Avani Jain — Google review
By far this was the coolest thing to do in Albuquerque! IT’s fairly priced and the views were just stunning! They only have 2 cable cars which come about every 15 minutes. The ride is about 15 minutes from point to point and was really smooth. There are no seats in the cable car, but there are plenty of poles to grab. There are also several short and long hiking trails at the top which we definitely took advantage of. I would highly recommend!
Dan Reamer — Google review
Not crowded, which was fantastic. The ride up and back were pretty uneventful. The views were gorgeous and with the price of the team ride.
Our "guide" on the way up was fantastic. Interacted with everyone answering questions, etc. The one going down need to find a new job. She basically told everyone that she didn't answer questions and struggled to keep her eyes open. I, literally, watched her with her eyes drifting closed more than once.
Cindy Robertson — Google review
Pictures from the top of the tram. Bought tickets in advance online. When I got there, I was told there was some weather that may cause them to stop running the tram temporarily. The staff kept me informed and there ended up being no weather delay. At the top, you can explore the area and come back down when you’re ready. There is a restaurant at the top, I believe reservations are recommended and there is a dress code after 7 pm.
It is a fun stop. There’s a gift shop too.
Gabrielle Davis-Jones — Google review
Spectacular views! Did a trail hike ( lol- less than 1/2 mile) was worth the Amazing views. Great weather hi 20’s and such small flurries I thought for a sec that it was pollen… Deducted 1 Star bc the Host & Hostess seated at table with minimal view despite repeated requests.. they claimed for larger group tho later they seated others just like ours (2)… the waiter Mike & others made up quite a bit for hospitality and attentiveness.. The Host & Hostess need more training in hospitality…
Thoroughly enjoyed Tram ride, weather & view… Sandia & Ten3 is a great place for pics or romantic date (ignore the Host/Hostess pair)
Gregory Lee — Google review
Went up to catch the sunset and it did not disappoint. Great view of Albuquerque and surrounding area. Temperature was about 25 degrees cooler than the city. Ride takes about 15 minutes one way. Would do this again on future trips to Albuquerque
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David Kunicki — Google review
4 stars only because the wait seemed extremely long. With small children, I wish there had been a better system where upon a arrival you are given a ticket with your place in line with a much smaller time window 15 or 20 minutes. By the time we had waited in the outside line and then the inside line, our youngest was getting cranky.
With that said this was a truly unique experience. We visited the Tramway the Monday before Thanksgiving. There was a lot of waiting. That was hard for our 2.5 year old. But the experience was worth the wait.
Being November, it was below freezing at the top of the mountain, and we got to experience some fresh snowfall.
There is a snack machine and restrooms at the top as well as the fine dining restaurant.
We took in the panoramic views and the snow and then headed back down.
The ride was about 15 minutes up, and the same was true for the way down. The tram operator gives you information about the mountain on the way up, and then the way down was a bit quieter just taking in the scenery.
This is definitely a unique experience you won't get to experience often.
It was fun for our 2.5 year old all the way up to my 71 year old mom!
Laurel Waller — Google review
Fun, and it gives you something to do in Albuquerque. The tram line is quite long and you climb a lot, so if you're coming from somewhere that is at sea level, just be advised that you may feel a little odd. You have to get the tickets online in advance, but once you get there the wait is not long. The tram runs every 15-ish minutes. The only thing we noticed is that, well... how to say this? I don't know if it's the change in altitude or what but in both directions, people were farting in the tram, and it's not fun you're trapped with ~20 people in a box with two tiny windows. I felt bad for the tram operators who probably have to smell stinky farts all day long. Other than that, the tram, a fun experience.
Valeria Larreategui — Google review
This was my second time riding the tram.
The views and sunsets are exceptional I recommend riding around sunset, so you can witness scenery and sunset on the way up and the city lights on the way down.
Bring a coat, dress warm, it was freezing and windy at the top.
And we did have a little wind on our ride, which was a bit scary but great to see the employees in communication immediately upon the wind gusts, with the tram receiving a call at what seemed like the exact moment of the wind to check on us.
The staff was friendly, professional and shared fun facts on the rides.
Worth it, clearly I've rode it twice and would probably do it again just to see/ share all that beauty again. The colors in the sky were so absolutely incredible.
AdvoK8great — Google review
This was a up and down (forgive my pun) experience. On the one hand, the tram going up was incredible. Very exhilarating 14 minutes. The views at the top? A+. Can’t be beat anywhere.
The cons: I got stuck up there for about 5 hours with a group of another 100 or so people because the power went out at the base station and the tram was not running. We had one last tram down and unfortunately due to a critical medical emergency we let the person having the medical situation use it to get down. The rest of us had to wait all night for shuttle buses to make it up the mountain and pick us up. Luckily for me I was a solo traveler and the first bus had one open seat for me to make it down. Yes, some families were stuck up there even longer as they waited for more buses, though all the buses were kind of arriving at the same time so it wasn’t too much for all of them. Eventually made it home around 1am after a long ordeal and an expensive Uber ride yhat ended up being a really long wait because drivers kept cancelling thinking that the tram had closed hours ago so no one should be ip there.
Anyway, I plan on going back sometime this year (this all happened two years ago) and going for it again, hoping for better results.
The tramway is out of the way, so Uber/Lyft will be pricey (get a rental car) and the restaurant at the top has very limited seating so don’t expect to be able to eat especially around common meal times or in worst case scenario, you get stuck up there with 3 tram loads of people because the power goes out.
Because of the power outage, I never did get to stop by the gift shop, so thats on the top of my agenda this next time around. And this time I will go there first instead of “going there on my way out”
Bronson Allen — Google review
Wow the views! And the service was great. Make sure to buy your tickets on the website they don’t sell them there. Bring a coat or sweatshirt it is cold at the top!
Thomas Cronshaw — Google review
I have always had a fear of heights (except when flying) but this was an experience I did not want to miss. I wanted to conquer my fears and live in the moment to appreciate the beauty from over 10k elevation to speak about for years to come. From the ground, the elevation did not seem so terrifying but once in and the ascend started, I soon began to feel a bit nervous but the magnificent views soon made me forget my freight as I was in awe.
The view from the top was superb and frigid! We went in late November so snow was present. We wanted to walk down the steps on the other side but the steps were covered in snow and a bit slippery but managed to get some pictures and videos. The descending ride seemed quicker and we were luck to watch hang gliders in the distance - it was magnificent! Perfect trip to take in the warmer months with friends and family.
Izod Man — Google review
Tram was great. Hike to the cabin was snowy and we post holed a bit but worth it. Restaurant was closed which was a bummer but that was on us. But tickets in advance but you can do it on your phone when u get there too.
Heidi Misch — Google review
This is such an amazing experience! You will be so glad you saw it! Dress warm. It's cold up on top! And get those tickets in advance!
Valles Caldera National Preserve is a vast, scenic area featuring a 13-mile wide meadow that's home to plenty of wildlife and streams ideal for fly fishing. The park can be accessed via highway 4 from either Santa Fe or Albuquerque, each offering stunning views along the way. It's highly recommended to visit during the day when picturesque hiking trails are available, though visiting around sunset or sunrise offers breathtaking scenes - especially in autumn.
Highly recommend visiting during the day where the hiking views are scenic. That said, visit around sunset (or even sunrise) and you’ll be greeted with stunning scenes. Especially in the autumn.
Christopher Howard — Google review
Highly recommend.
Tip One:
If you are planning to hike, just know the estimated times it takes to complete each trail (according to maps as well as the visitor's center staff) are massively exaggerated. I walked slowly and stopped dozens of times to take pictures, and yet a trail that would supposedly take me 59 minutes (oddly specific) took me less than thirty. You will be able to see a lot more than let on by those estimates.
Tip Two:
The caldera is full of prairie dogs, which are adorable and can be heard calling to each other all over park, BUT they sometimes dig their burrows directly on the dirt path, so watch your step.
Tip Three:
Speaking of watching your step, many of the trails have a plethora of animal feces on them. This is obviously gross, but also fascinating, as it demonstrates all the different animals that call the caldera home.
Tip Four:
One of the animals you may cross paths with are coyotes. Coyotes are generally more afraid of us than we are of them, but if you see one with a baby, then they may be more aggressive. A good way to keep a safe distance from them is to hold your arm all the way out, close one eye, and attempt to block the animal from your view with your thumb. If your thumb completely obscures the coyote, then you're safe, but if you can still see any part of the coyote sticking out from your thumb, then you should back off a bit. Honestly, this is a good rule of thumb (heh) for when you encounter ANY potentially dangerous animal in the wild.
Error 404 — Google review
SCENIC and HISTORIC VALLE GRANDE!
About one million years ago, this magnificent valley was formed by collapse, after a series of tremendous volcanic eruptions ejected a Volume of material more than 500 times greater than the May 1980 eruptions of Mt. St Helens, This event climaxed more than 13 million years of volcanism in the Jemez Mountains. Minor volumes of magma, leaking to the surface as recently as 50,000 years ago, formed the dome-like hills between you and the skyline to the north, which is the opposite wall of the enormous Valles Caldera. The heat from young volcanism makes this area attractive for geothermal energy.
Paul Lee — Google review
There's a tranquil beauty here you don't find many places. It's isolated and the only noises you hear are nature and the occasional other visitor.
Roisin Blanks — Google review
It's free and has plenty of trail options. If You're in the area and looking for a hike this is a great place to do it. I would recommend Hidden Valley Trail. It has an old ranch to walk around and a lush, tight valley to walk down.
Kyle Kempf — Google review
Lovely place to visit winter and spring and summer and fall.. all season around. I visited during April and still had some patches of snow. Trail might be little muddy buy views are fantastic. Wild animal are pretty easy to spot if you know where to look for. Careful driving during winter and spring.. snow and falling rocks. .
SM K — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. Lots of scenery along the way on highway 4 whether you're coming from the Santa Fe area or Albuquerque...we traveled to Valles Caldera from both directions on two different days.
Corrie Erbert — Google review
Off rt 4, up road 105. Private property so be respectful. Locked FS gate, turn around and park so others can turn around.
FS is was still evaluating site for reclamation and future use when we visited. Stopped and shared discoveries, history with each other.
mike skiinghousedad — Google review
Valles Caldera is a beautiful place! You must go there to experience God's beautiful creations. There are so many wild animals. I took a long hike to the top of South Peak and saw a beautiful royal bull elk. I was able to take a picture of it. It's a once in a lifetime picture for me. It's so cool and a good memory that will stay with me forever.
Art J — Google review
Beautiful place! If your a Longmire fan it's a must see for his cabin. Beautiful countryside with hiking, biking and hunting opportunities.
Max Wood — Google review
Breathtaking views! Amazing creation. So many prairie dogs along the route. Initially we thought they were gophers. Unfortunately there are no signs in the park, we had to ask for a special permit to get inside, no places to pull over. I still give the 5 stars for the beauty of nature. Land of enchantment it is.
Cera Sela — Google review
The unique beauty of this place is well worth a visit. Arriving here after driving NM4 on the Jemez Mountains Scenic drive (through all the fire ravaged forests) was a breath of fresh greenery to behold. Sadly, we saw no elk. Perhaps wrong time of day? Wrong time of year? Staff we spoke to outside of visitors center were very knowledgeable and friendly.
Jazz Rock Fusion & Synthesizer Music — Google review
Recommend buying tickets in advance for backcountry drive, visit. There is lot more to be explored in the backcountry which we couldn’t visit as the passes were run out. They give only 30 passes per day to minimize visitors. We however visited the pond and saw several prairie dogs near the visitor center
Anupama Venkatesan — Google review
The area is so beautiful with cool Temps and beautiful mountain air. Plenty of pine and hardwood trees with hidden meadows and springs. Got to watch the elk come out at sunset and saw a majestic bull elk with the largest set of antlers I have ever seen. Gorgeous drive!!
The Albuquerque BioPark is a large and diverse attraction located in the heart of Old Town. The zoo houses more than 250 species of animal life, including polar bears, monkeys and koalas. Outdoors, the park includes a playground, picnic areas and beaches. The aquarium is especially popular with kids and features sharks as well as other marine creatures.
The zoo was awesome!! We had so much fun for Mother's day!! We saw so many beautiful animals. Take a blanket and food. So you can enjoy a nice lunch on the grass. Thank you!!
Katrina Athena Martinez — Google review
We've been coming here for years and it's a nice outing each time, The park has seen some upgrades with some currently in progress, which is nice to see.
The animals appear healthy and well taken care of. There's a brand new elephant viewing area and even an indoor penguin exhibit.
If I had any complaints, it would be the main cafe in the middle of the park. It's not as clean as it could be and the cost is quite high for simple meal items. There is a shaded grass area though, so just pack your own food to save some money.
Speaking of saving money, get on the bio park website and grab the yearly pass. Then you can visit as often as you want for a year. The pass also covers the Botanical gardens and aquarium to boot.
The zoo itself does get a bit tight during busy times. We made the mistake of coming during spring break and it's way too many people. You feel like you're getting herded along since there are people waiting to get the best spot to look at animals, and with all the strollers around... Yeah, if you can manage it, go when the kiddos are in school.
All in all, it's still a nice outing. Definitely worth visiting.
Cam Citizen — Google review
Albuquerque Zoo is absolutely one of my all-time favorite zoo experiences. From start to finish it is wonderful. There is plenty of parking at the front so you don't have to worry about battling anyone for a good spot. There is a huge variety of animals and educational opportunities. The penguin exhibit is breathtaking, such an awesome addition. So many animals on display and such awesome exhibits. Definitely a 10 out of 10 experience.
I've been to quite a few zoos and always have taken my service dog with me. I will say I was a little shocked when I was not asked the two questions at the front. Especially considering that there are geese, swans and peacocks loose around the zoo. Since no one is checking the legitimacy of service dogs I would just be slightly concerned for the safety of other animals. Luckily we didn't see any random dogs in the zoo, but it's something the city should do better training on for the zoo location.
Aside for some minor safety concerns in regards to ADA. There's truly is a wonderful Zoo to visit.
Alysha Marie — Google review
This was a pretty nice zoo. The New Mexico desert aesthetic is really nice and they kept that up throughout the zoo.
It's a little on the small side, and it gets Really Hot, but they designed it to offer an okay amount of shade cover over walk ways and it has free covered parking which is GREAT! I'd definitely recommend taking a sun umbrella and/or going first thing in the morning during warm months.
I don't I would pay to come to JUST the zoo, but they make it easy to bundle with the botanical gardens and the aquarium which makes for a nice 5 hours or so of entertainment (more if you get lunch in between or stop for dippin dots etc).
Side note- the main parking lot, or at least what Google maps THINKS is the parking lot, is under construction so you're on your own to wiggle around and find the entrance.
Mandy Sanders — Google review
What an incredible zoo! My husband and I enjoyed every minute of our visit (there about 2 hours). We saw animals we’d never seen before. All the animals looked happy and well taken care of. The penguin exhibit was amazing, so was the new Asia exhibit. Some areas were still under construction but easy to navigate the closures. We got in line when the zoo opened (while it was still cool out). It took about 7 minutes to buy our combo tickets (zoo, aquarium, botanical gardens). You can skip the line if you buy tickets online. I do recommend arriving early because the zoo was quiet when it opened and the animals were fresh. It was definitely busy by the time we left. The zoo also offers a shuttle between the aquarium so you only have to park once.
emily p — Google review
The zoo itself was very nice. We found it to be clean and well maintained. The lady inside the office, right inside the entrance that sold us our membership ,was amazing and very informative. Our son had a blast getting to run around and seeing all the animals. The food was surprisingly good….our 6 year old said it was the best pizza he has ever had. Unfortunately there are many improvements that need to happen to earn anything more than 3 stars. The staff were all too busy on cell phones to help anyone. While trying to let my son ride the carousel, we were told to go to the cone shop to buy tickets…. There was no one there and a line of angry parents had formed with the employee just hanging out in the cafe with her friends… we went into the cafe and asked if we could buy tickets and we were bounced around between them saying I can’t but she can until my wife lost her cool and all of a sudden we were able to purchase tickets in there after all….
A LOT of the exhibits were either closed , under construction, or the animals were just missing??? Speaking of construction, there is A-LOT of very loud construction going on very close to some of the attractions. Having a son with sensory issues, the noise really got to him.
The facility is too nice for a trip to end on a bad note due to lazy and undertrained staff. I really hope these issues can be addressed sooner than later.
Josh S — Google review
Went for a company event, so the zoo was super packed. The animals were mostly sleeping, but well kept. The glass on some exhibits (polar bear, penguins) was so dirty you had a hard time seeing in some places, it could use a cleaning. There was some construction areas and areas were no animals were in the exhibit. The layout is nice and easy to go around without missing spots. The center of the zoo where the cafes are, is nice for a sit down, but could use more seating in the grass. Lots of people sitting on the grass but there are ducks and geese that poop there. The line for the cafe was ridiculously long at around 1pm. If you’re in Albuquerque and have kids, it’s worth a visit.
Catherine Castillo — Google review
We just took our family and it was so fun! Although we went on a very hot day, it was not crowded at all. I do recommend going when it is not so hot so that the animals will be more active. They, for good reason, were very hard to see sometimes because they were in the shade. We are non-residents of New Mexico, so it was a little more expensive for an adult. We decided to buy the package so that we could see the aquarium too! It was $22 per adult for us. But residents cost less. Lunch at the Shark Reef Cafe was very good! We all loved it!
Danielle Stegall — Google review
Our recent visit was better than expected. We had little wait time to enter and the ticket lady even gave us a discount on my sons birthday. Cottonwood Cafe was great, too. $15 for a delicious pizza that fed 4 people. Walking the park was easy to navigate. Carousel tickets should have a separate booth. One employee operating the ride was falling asleep, and some of the seats on the Carousel did not work. Overall, it was a great experience and will be going again.
Araseli Aguayo — Google review
What a great zoo! The layout and design is well thought out and pretty. Shade, seating and bathrooms located throughout park. Lots of construction going on and some exhibits closed due to this. Still was able to see a lot. Low crowds, came on a Monday. Not much for a gift shop just a couple of things sitting outside toward the front.
Jesska86 — Google review
This is a wonderful place to spend a few hours with your friends or family. This zoo has standard draws: elephants, monkeys, zebras, and flamingos. So your average child will be very happy visiting.
I really enjoyed the African aviary--the creaky wooden bridge to walk in on was a little bit of adventure, too! The amphibian exhibit has a lot of activity, much in small tanks. It's definitely worth checking out.
The hippo habitat was a crowd pleaser. We arrived during play time. This is absolutely the best time! The hippos were playing with a ball, splashing around their habitat.
There is an expansion project in progress right now: Australia experience. I look forward to seeing how that turns out. A large section of the park is committed to this.
If you are visiting Albuquerque, consider spending some time here.
Heather C. — Google review
We're members of our local zoo which has reciprocal benefits with ABQ BioPark Zoo. Unfortunately, the ticket person didn't understand that the name of the zoo was not the same as the name of the city it's in. He told us that our zoo was not listed but fortunately some ABQ members behind us graciously brought us in as their guests today.
ABQ BioPark is small so it's really only accessible by foot or wheelchair/scooter. There is no train or bus tour. There's no need for them and the paths are too small anyway. I didn't see many areas for visitors to rest. I would have liked to see more benches throughout the park. There are also no mirrors in the bathrooms I used, which I found a bit odd. I specifically went into the restroom to look at a scrape on my face from hitting a branch by accident. It was a shame I couldn't properly address my minor injury because of that. Most of the concession stands were also not open. I saw maybe one education session listed for the day.
Besides those little hiccups, we enjoyed meeting all of the zoo inhabitants. We came at opening so most of the animals were active. The polar bears and tiger didn't make an appearance while we were visiting but we got to interact with all of the others. The chimps were especially energetic and tried to play with us on the other side of the enclosure. Unfortunately, the lions have been moved to a new zoo. As far as specimens go, I do feel like this zoo does lack in variety but it's very apparent that they care about all of their charges. All of the enclosures were clean, water and food bowls were full, the reptiles seemed to be adequately moist, etc. I felt like I was able to safely get close to all of the animals. I believe in ABQ BioPark Zoo and their mission. They are just capable of being better. There is quite a bit of construction so maybe my complaints are unjustified.
Melinda Bianchi — Google review
Albuquerque Zoo is by far the nicest zoo I've been to...from the layout, the staff, and the amazing animals. Can't wait to see the other area that they are working currently, all finished...the Asia are is amazing. I went on Christmas Eve, so not a wait or line and for the weather it surprised me on how many animals were out....I'm definitely going back in the summer. I would purchase tickets in advance if only you know its going to be busy. I highly recommend you checking it our at least once.
Foodie 4life — Google review
This was a very good family experience! Seeing it first thing in the morning was great timing, as the animals were sunning and feeding. Looking forward to when more areas open up.
Lou Connelly — Google review
This zoo is absolutely worth the time or effort to see it. The exhibits are really good except the tiny amphibian area which is ridiculously tiny and hard to navigate. There are animals that even have their babies with them which was a huge hit with the children. The new Asia exhibit is open and neat. We just really enjoyed ourselves. We rented the two kid strollers at the front and they were so lightweight and easy to push. Made the trip around so easy. It was just a great time.
Yvonne Steinbach — Google review
Went to the ABQ zoo for my bday on March 21st, and we had so much fun! 🥰 This was our first time visiting the ABQ zoo, and I will definitely be back again! It's quite a trip from Tucumcari NM, but it was worth it! 😊 Absolutely loved seeing all the beautiful animals! The hippos were my favorite, the second time we came back to see them the beautiful female hippo went for a swim and came right over to me and popped outta the water to look right at me like she was saying "Hi Happy Birthday" and it made me feel so special and honored since there were tons of other ppl around, I'm still smiling about it! 😍 I didn't have my camera ready for that, but I'll remember it forever! ☺️ Will return soon cause I already miss the hippos! I also want to come do a rino tour and get to meet them how awesome that would be! 🤩 Thank you, ABQ zoo, for a really fun birthday! 🫶
Old Town is a historic district characterized by its narrow streets and old adobe houses. The area is known for its New Mexican cuisine, including popular dishes like enchiladas and sopaipilla pastries. Visitors can also browse numerous artisan shops selling handmade jewelry, rugs, and pottery. At the center of Old Town Plaza stands the 18th-century San Felipe de Neri Church.
4.0
(5380)
Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA
I'll never travel to Grand Canyon National Park without this trip planner again
Day spa offering several outdoor pools of hot springs mineral water, plus cabanas & a gift shop.
The visit was really nice. The pools were a comfortable temperature, not too hot. The folks operating the place are delightful!
Some amenities were sparse, like the changing room. The outdoor showers were missing fixtures. Perhaps, because it is during the colder months…?
Will visit again (and again)!
Josh Wozniak — Google review
Nice little hot springs nestled about 45 minutes north of Albuquerque,new Mexico. They have 4 pools , roughly at different temperatures. We were in the biggest pond. It seemed quite hot, then cooled down. Luckily they only allowed a limited number of people. So we were able to find another pond that was hotter. Then the hot water started pouring in.Now it was a real nice hot spring soak. I didn't smell any sulfur. Plenty of changing rooms. Nice layout. But make reservations before going there. They do have cottages for overnight stays. Overall nice relaxing experience.
abdul azam — Google review
We knew this place when it was Giggling Springs and would visit once or twice a year. They've since been purchased by others, and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere has diminished. The pools are still beautiful! The water is still awesome! But in our visit last week we felt rushed by the staff and not terribly welcome. There used to be a sweet, quirky and delightful little shop inside the small welcome cabin, but now guests aren't even allowed inside. The cold plunge used to be the river, but now there are signs everywhere forbidding it. The previous owners always seemed happy to be there, loved their guests and were great company. I miss the sweet friendliness that used to exist here and feel sad that yet another small business has been consumed by something large and a little cold.
Juanita Brigid McCarron — Google review
After hours of searching for a natural hot spring we gave up and decided to give this place a chance. We are so glad we did. We expected to be sore the next day after hiking for long; thanks to the hot, relaxing mineral water we weren’t. I recommend you take breaks and bring your own water. We didn’t take breaks and literally spent an hour in water over 100 degrees. Worth it!
Jetzamani Peña — Google review
Beautiful, smaller mineral hot springs focused on relaxation. $25 for a one hour slot. Several small pools, all seem to be the same temperature roughly with hot waterfalls coming in. Lots of lovely cabanas and options around for relaxing. Visitors can't access the river but it's close by for ambiance and bird life. Beautiful mineral bottom to the pool.
1.5 hrs would reduce feeling any stress from the time restriction. Coed changing room was a little small and I felt a need to rush using them so others could come in.
Jennie Daniels — Google review
Quiet, relaxing place with a small pools near the river. Beautiful views of the canyon walls. Enclosed outdoor showers and ample seating for relaxing if you get too hot. Had a Thai iced tea which really hit the spot.
Eric Truslow — Google review
This place is amazing. We went first thing in the morning. Seemed like we had the place to ourselves. $25 per person per hour. Mary checked us in. She was super friendly and very knowledgeable about the area. The smoothies are fantastic. Showers and changing rooms are available. Small cabanas throughout the property for you to have privacy. Limited to 30 people on the property. Also available for rent are towels and bathing suits. Amazing experience. Thank you!
Daniel Williams — Google review
I went to the hot springs for an hour and it was incredible! It is so relaxing and the owners maintain a quiet and calm atmosphere. The landscaping is lovely and the view of the mountains is to die for. I arrived with achy muscles from a week spent moving into a new place. After an hour of soaking, all my muscle aches disappeared! This is now one of my favorite places!
Karen Holt — Google review
(We stayed at the Laughing Lizard, not at the Springs resort, so this is only a review of the Springs themselves.)
A lovely series of hot springs pools await you at Jemez Springs. The grounds are nice, and there are little cabanas to change in, where you can also leave your belongings. (Not locking) They rent robes and towels, but I suggest bringing your own. They serve smoothies and beverages, but I brought my own. It's a relaxing place to sit in the pools, listening to the river bubbling by behind you. There are also little sitting areas where you can have a chiminea fire and lounge with your group. The peace and quiet rule seems well honored by the guests. However, though it clearly states the grounds are a "no phone zone," I saw several people taking pictures with their phones while in the pools. This is very rude behavior and a violation of people's privacy. Please don't be this person.
Leigh Ann Livingston — Google review
A very beautiful, relaxing and unique experience bathing in hot springs among the mountains. They also sell tea and smoothies, we got mint tea and a coconut pineapple smoothie. It was wonderful being able to relax for 2 hours (2 hours per guest comes with a room) or you can do hourly. Room was great too. My only gripe is the bed in the turquoise room was way too soft. Felt like mattress was old. Not much support for the back after a relaxing soak.
Andy Milz — Google review
We visit often for the locals discount on Wednesdays, but when the winter weather moved in today, we knew we had to come by and take a snow day soak. What a treat! Lots of other patrons seemed to have the same idea. Aaron kept the operation rolling smoothly, professionally, and courteously with the springs at full capacity. Thank you for the wonderful experience, time after time!
lauren ray — Google review
Always a nice place to visit, can be relaxing if you hit the right time with not too many people.
Downside is the one hour or two hour time limit. Makes you really feel rushed. But still a great experience overall especially after a day of ice fishing.
Dylan S — Google review
I nearly always bring out of state guests to the Jemez Hot Springs. It's a beautiful drive there from Albuquerque and I've always loved sharing it with friends. This time, however, I was disappointed with how run-down and "tired" it was. The gardens were overgrown, no colorful flowers in the pots, no hummingbird feeders kept filled, broken chaise lounges, faded pillows. There was no tarp over the big pool (I read in another post they plan to put the tarp back up when it's less windy) so my shoulders got too much sun. The water was wonderful as usual, but I do hope there is more care taken soon to keep it worth the drive.
kara skeberdis — Google review
Booking the room in advance is essential for a visit, and it's important to note that the hot springs are not natural. Unfortunately, the staff's behavior was rather rude, which impacted the overall experience. Despite these aspects, planning ahead can still lead to a memorable stay at this establishment.
Durge Kunal — Google review
Lovely, slightly funky hot springs, by the Jemez River (honestly, more of a brook). Easy access into any of the 5 pools, they are all a bit different in temp and size, no Sulphur smell at all, but my skin felt great after. Bring water, and they do make sure that if you pay for an hour, you get that hour {25 per hour.
Nice drive in from the 550, going through the Pueblo then in the national forest.
Cristina Whitely — Google review
Ideal setting in quick access location! The host here was especially helpful with our plans, given we had a pet that couldn't come in with us! We appreciated her help with that situation! 🙏 we only stayed for an hour but it was lovely and was a break from amhiking to hot springs, which is what we usually do! Nice on site, outdoor showers and different settings for tub heat to choose from! We will be back!
Lauryn Spohn — Google review
One of my favorite hot springs I had the pleasure of visiting in New Mexico. The tubs are large, warm, welcoming and of course, relaxing. The decorations and vibe reminds me of a nostalgic, distant memory from childhood. There's just something special about this place.
Michaela Gallagher — Google review
Just far enough for a day trip from Albuquerque, but not so far that's you get tired of traveling! Surrounded by beautiful landscape, Jemez Hot Springs is a perfect place to relax. It was honestly therapeutically better than a massage!
RA Johnson — Google review
What an absolute delight spending an hour at these beautiful hot springs. Such a rare treasure to be in an environment that blends so well with nature around us. The ambiance, the facilities, the decor, the luxurious ease of going from one awesome pool to another were all such a treat. Our mango smoothie at the end was delicious and a perfect finale for a wonderful relaxing interlude. Thank you Brian for welcoming us so warmly. I will never forget our visit to Jemez Hot Springs and cannot recommend it enough.
Suzanne Daigle — Google review
Stopped by for an hour on my way to see more of the woods and hike. Was a week day in September, so it was chill and easy and not crowded. Great views. Hot natural springs. Very relaxing. Worth the $25/hr.
Brent Cayson — Google review
Nice hot pools! There are a few different pools with various temperatures so you can choose what you like. Good views and a healing environment. Clean bathrooms, showers, and changing area. Overall a great experience!
Taylor Gerber — Google review
Love this place. Great spot to ride the motorcycle to for a soak.
However, I would really appreciate it if the staff was more effective at enforcing the no phones rule. The last couple times here I had to ask people to stop their excessive photo shoot and to stop watching a soccer game with sound playing out loud.
Not a huge deal, but I’d rather not have to confront other guests every time I come here
Steven R — Google review
I took my wife to our first hot springs experience for the holidays. After waiting in a long line we were greeted by a very rude woman who told us to wait and stand in the uncovered parking lot. It was very hot and I have health issues and we so waited for a little while. My wife explained that waiting in a hot parking lot is going to be a problem. She said, "REALLY"? Then we left. If you want a better experience there are many other options. DON'T GO TO THIS ONE. I got the feeling that all they were concerned about was money and profit and not customer service.
***UPDATE***. In response to the owner: Yes, we were there - 4th of July weekend. Your response to my review just solidifies why we would never go back.
The Petroglyph National Monument is a hiking and biking destination located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It contains thousands of prehistoric Native American drawings on stone walls.
Incredible! So amazing to see all the petroglyphs in the lava rocks! Felt like time melting, being able to see these ancestral drawings. . It was heartbreaking tho to witness destruction from people carving their names and dirty drawings. Please honor these Sacred places if you go!
BrainFreeze LA — Google review
It was cool view and it was really hot, but that’s New Mexico especially in the summer. National park service worker was really helpful with guiding my boyfriend and I to the monuments. Only went to one that was closest to the visitor center. It was an easy hike up but at the top it’s a bit steep. It was cool to see them and get a glimpse of history. I would recommend this monument!
Brian Copes — Google review
This area is not located where the visitors' entrance is. It's a cave that requires a few miles in hike north of the 3 sisters volcanos. Not frequently visited, which is why I like it. The roof of the cave was all green from moisture. It smelled a little like sulfur. Nice spot to watch the city lights, drink some wine, if you are not scared to hike back in the dark.
Bonnie Chanet — Google review
Visitors center was just a booth. The worker at the gift shop was making sure to follow CDC guidelines to keep a small enough number of people inside. Toilet vaults were less than ideal. Wonderful experience overall though!
Hanna Hollek — Google review
When you arrive at the visitors center, you are given a map and a video is showing to give you background on the locations.
There are three locations; all a few miles drive from the visitors center. We chose the first canyon due to time constraints. It was the most strenuous of the three according to the brochures. And a $1 parking fee.
We climbed our way to the top on rugged paths. Not for flip flops for sure. Gravel paths with steep inclines, steps, and some places you have to step over large rocks. But worth the view at the top and the amazing petroglyphs along the way!
We spent about 2 hours and only saw a fraction of the vast canyon.
Definitely recommend!
LeeAnna McDaniel — Google review
Worth a visit if you’re in the area. They have a few short trails where you can spot several petroglyphs. We hit it up early on a late July summer day and it was pleasant. Spotted a rattlesnake which was a bonus and super exciting. Several millipedes under the rocks and trails.
Vrajesh K — Google review
Very cool place! Short hiking trails and lots of peyroglyphs to see. We went to two different locations. It was free and the trails were pretty easy.
Paul Goodman — Google review
We hiked the Petroglyph National park trail. Trail is sand and an easy hike. We enjoyed the hike. We were ointed because the Petroglyphs we're roped off so we were not allowed to get us close to them. We did take pictures and water able to zoom in on them but it would of been nice to get up close to them. The weather was great. It was sunny and not hot. The trail is great for an easy hike for kids and dogs on a leash. I doubt you could take stroller because it is sandy.
LaWanda Batchelor — Google review
Very nice trail to go for a hike/walk. However, there are no trees thus no shade (besides a couple of shade structures), so plan accordingly. Initial leg of the trail is pretty smooth gravel trail (probably wheelchair accessible), but later parts (including going up the volcano) has some rough spots, nothing terrible, but watch your footing.
abesh mubaraki — Google review
Very interesting but you really need to take the time to understand why this is important to know about. Make sure you either don't take your dog or at least have some shoes for them.
Alex DeMartino — Google review
An interesting place. While you can definitely find a sense of peace and place in this park, several hiring trails are adjacent to housing complexes! It makes for interesting juxtaposition of an ancient indigenous site and contemporary living.
Fileve Tlaloc — Google review
This is definitely a must see. Plan on spending at least 2 hours here. They have several areas with easy to difficult trails so wear comfortable shoes. There are thousands of petroglyphs carved into basalt rocks on these trails and wonderful views from the top. We visited late March and it was already fairly warm so I highly recommend sunblock, comfortable closed toe shoes and a bottle of water.
Suz NoneYa — Google review
We hiked Rinconada Canyon. It was 2.5 miles rounds trip. For those who want a shorter trip, hike in and when you get to the bench turnaround and exit the same way you came in. Some of the pictographs where hard to find but that is part of the fun!
K. Williams — Google review
Great place to explore. Really cool petroglyphs to check out. Come explore something that's really awesome!!!
Barbara Hines — Google review
It’s a free very relevant historic landmark. You will receive messages from our ancestors. Amazing indeed. There are also very helpful guides and they’ll give you maps and directions for free. If you are in the area, it’s a must. In a few hours you can get an amazing idea of how things were hundreds of years ago. We also saw roadrunners, lizards and rattle snakes.
Johnny — Google review
We did the Boca Negra Canyon. Just because it's the shorter hike, doesn't mean it's easy, so keep that in mind. Really cool to see the petroglyphs but so heartbreaking to see the vandalism surrounding it.
Vanessa B — Google review
On our way to the airport. We were looking for an interesting place to visit before we leave Albuquerque and this was a perfect place for this. Very interesting. Easy to reach, we visited and walked around in about an hour.
W. B. — Google review
We went to the hike near Golf Course rd and Paradise. Dog friendly. Short loop hike hood for kids too. Sandy trail. Many petroglyphs to spot.
Was a good experience. Was not too crowded, people were friendly, and everything was nice and clean. Did not stay too long just gambled a little bit. I actually won and came home with $60 more than I went with. So that's definitely a plus. I will have to expand my review when I'm able to spend more time there. But for me it is a recommendation. A little far out of the way but definitely worth the drive
Leo Taormino — Google review
If you want a clean, comfortable room and bed, this place is for you. If you want to have fun, gamble all night , smoke and drink while you party at the casino, you will have to move on. There is no longer any smoking in the casino (except in designated areas)and no drinking on the casino floor either. You can only drink in the bars. You must wear a mask at all times as well and the casino closes at 2am. The room prices have increased $50.00 per night since I last stayed there prior to the pandemic as well. I understand the increase....everything is going up. I'm used to walking in here and hearing all of the slots going like Vegas, but I walked in and it was like a morgue. Almost no sounds at all, just a speaker in the middle of the casino playing music that sounded like I turned my PC computer speaker all the way up. Very disappointing and I will not be back unless they can return to the fun place it used to be. It was Saturday night and the casino was probably 1/3 capacity. Sad. It's a quick cheap flight to Vegas and you will experience a much more normal exciting time.
Chris White — Google review
This has become a regular stopover on our commute between Texas and California. Easy access... big parking lot and very clean. As a place to rest for a bit and unwind it's great. They have extremely well cleaned restrooms. But the main attraction is the food. Great hamburgers.... well worth the stop.
Randol Rusconi — Google review
This place is pretty awesome. I don’t gamble much but I have met some winners today and I’m here because I have to do a 34 hour reset for trucking. I am a smoker and although this is a non-smoking place is very clean everything is well-maintained with the exception of the smoking area outback but it’s in the windiest spot so I usually just go out front. Everyone that I have met here that works here that comes in here is all smiles. It’s crowded and I can’t wait to see the car rise at 7 PM for the band at thunder Road.. I have been told all about it, so I’m biding my time just to see this.
Teresa Joslin — Google review
We stopped here because our previous experience with the RV park was amazing. However, it seems like they decided to dwell on outdated covid concepts so long they have killed their own business. certain amenities are just not open, the atmosphere is slow and somber. Our food was high priced and low quality with drinks served by the bottle even though they have fountain drinks on the gambling floor. The room had at least one piece of trash in it from about 10 months before our visit and the elevators were quirky enough to give us pause when boarding. The fitness center was simply closed with no real explanation of why. The whole thing wasn't bad, it just wasn't great for the price. Our room, with a veteran discount was only about 130 bucks, but we spent almost as much eating one mediocre meal in the restaurant. I will say the exception to the food was breakfast. They give guests a 3 dollar discount, the food was good, and the portions were generous.
paulsmithinform — Google review
Didn't get a room.
I stop here once in a while while passing through New Mexico. I've always had a good time. I usually kick it in the Irish pub, then move on to the shorts bar. The bartenders are always nice, respectful, and prompt. I always leave a fat tip. I like this place!
Alan Brent — Google review
I didn't stay at the hotel, so I am unable to rate rooms.
Overall a very nice small casino with many restaurants. Unfortunately the buffet has been closed since COVID. I would like to see it re-open. I love buffets.
The burger was fantastic and the best homestyle skinny fries. They actually tasted like potatoes. Super yummy.
L Leslie T — Google review
Great casino. We stayed in the RV park and it was perfect. In the casino we were pleased to see everyone was wearing a mask. There were plastic dividers between slot machines so we felt very safe. Good food too. What more could anyone ask for. We'll stay longer next time.
Barbara Reichenbach — Google review
My stay here made for a great getaway. From check-in to the casino, to the staff in the restaurants, everyone was extremely courteous, professional and very friendly. No one gave me any hassle about my service dog, and the room was spotless and comfortable. Dinner was at the Laguna Burger restaurant and the service matched the food; excellent. Breakfast was at the Stadium and Carlos, my waiter, saw that all was good. I will definitely return.
Rick — Google review
This is a nice midway stop on our way to Laughlin. Casino is clean and has fun slots. We went to the 7 p.m bingo it was fun but was a really long session. The hotel room was very clean, and comfy beds were comfortable. We definitely will make this our midway stop again!
Johnell Halt — Google review
Great place to stop! They offer truck drivers a free steak dinner, once, this is my 3rd time eating here and it’s been fantastic each time.!!! Sometime I might get a room, if I have a reset here. Everything here is absolutely fantastic.!!! I’ve had steak twice and shrimp tacos tonight, a lot of food, well worth the price.!!!
Jodi Smith — Google review
Great place to eat but a bit pricey at times. A great rib eye 14oz with 2 sides is my favorite but will set you back $34. Luckily I get $20 off as a coupon but still overpriced. Pizza in sports bar is the right way to go at $22.00 for a large and lots of toppings, and cannot top the green chili stew. Onion rings is another favorite as I always get and priced right at $7.99 as they are plentiful and meaty.
steven herrera — Google review
I have gambled at route 66 for several years. It used to be fun! At one point I was one of the highest tiers they had. It has run down drastically over the past few years. The travel center is poorly run and no maintenance at all, pumps are slow meaning 25 minutes to fill my tanks on a pick-up 50 gallons. You can not use your card at the pumps anymore. You have to go inside. The casino seems very old and machines are in need of up grade and maintenance. They are not interested in keeping people coming back so beware they don't play much! For myself I will use the few points I have left for fuel and win loss statement for this year and never return. Not worth the effort to drive out there.
Keith Tichenor — Google review
We did not stay in the hotel as my husband is a truck driver and there is ample parking due to the fueling station next door. Atmosphere is great. Drinks weren't served when we were there. Bathrooms are good. We ate at The Laguna Burger and it was great. Slots were awesome. Hubby won twice and I won once. . . Nice pots!
Tracy — Google review
Wife and I used the casinos adjacent RV resort and boy were we happy that we did! All components of the park are high quality as is the professionalism of the staff. All RV facilities are immaculately cleaned and well equipped. PICKLEBALL courts have great playing surface. Rec room has fireplace, Foosball, bar shuffleboard, etc! We're not frequent casino goers but did pop in and was impressed with a whole bunch of gaming options. I highly recommend this facility for an RV stay with casino option.
Joe Knows — Google review
First time here. Very glittery place. Very clean and it looks like there are people cleaning all the time too. We lost about $200 in about 30 minutes but it did seem like a fun place overall. Lots of different food options and it was certainly bigger that I expected. I'd be interested to try staying at the hotel sometime just to have a short getaway. If you read this please click "like"... it helps my feelings. Thanks 😊
Kristi Rhinehart — Google review
Can't drink or smoke on the floor. But still tons of fun. And they do have a designated smoking section outside in the back, tented and heated with comfortable patio furniture. Truck drivers can get a free steak dinner. Which was very good. 14 oz ribeye at Thunder Road restraint, cooked perfectly and seasoned well. Definitely will be stopping here again.
Kay Pixie — Google review
This review is for the pub and the blonde lady bartender that works in the day on Fridays. I do understand she was the only worker @ the time but there was a handful of patrons and she was too busy talking and having her back rubbed by a male patron instead of waiting on her customers. I then specifically asked her if it was happy hour and she said yes so we ordered the draft special. After asking for an itemized receipt she charged full price and then tried to tell me it wasn’t happy hour when we ordered when in fact it was. She needs to be trained on customer service, not only servicing the men. Not the same service as in the past!
D D — Google review
Good news!! This hotel is service animals friendly. Rms were amazing. No microwave however to heat up left overs. Ps the bar makes delicious pizzas. I did not gamble. I was behaving myself for once. Bar staff were amazing. This will always be my stop when traveling.
Summer V — Google review
The casino is in a great location, right off of the highway. The casino area was clean, big and staff was friendly. Food is just okay. Good enough to eat if your hungry but not good enough to brag about. The rooms appeared clean but with the age of the room I was in (looked like 80’s), it needed to be updated. The bathroom especially needed attention. The price was right though.
Teresa Spreng — Google review
Great place to enjoy the weekend! The service was outstanding and our room was exceptionally clean and away from the others! Our Executive Hotel Host Kimberly, made sure we arrived to the location safely and answered any questions we had prior to checking in. Having previously stayed here, we were pleasantly surprised with the different promotions the casino offered as well as the variety of food options available. It couldn’t have been any better. Great service, great hotel, great food, and great amenities… and to top it off I walked away with some money in my pocket. I’d definitely recommend the resort to anyone visiting the Albuquerque and Santa Fe area!
Ernesto Corralejo — Google review
We were driving 18-wheelers from Mesa, AZ to Denver, CO. We weren't sure how far we would make it but knew this was a good half-way point especially since they have truck parking. We called the hotel, explained our situation and was told we didn't need reservations, that they had plenty of rooms. We arrived, their two fuel islands were not working so we just parked. Went to the front desk to check-in and was informed they only had one room left - we need four. Not happy at all. Had to leave our trucks there and find another hotel. Wore to the wise, apparently they always say they have plenty of rooms when they don't so make reservations. On a positive note we did eat in their steakhouse restaurant and the food and service was very good.
Neil — Google review
Decent for a middle of nowhere stay and play. Was sad they got rid of the Travel gift shop. Room was clean. Had towels brought to our room and they left the door open. We were gone until the evening, luckily nothing was taken. Heard a huge dog barking on our floor at night and in the morning. Stayed there a couple times when I travel and it seems like the excitement that I used to feel when going there is dying out. They had a nice Steakhouse and how can you go wrong with a Laguna Burger!
Randi S — Google review
The staff was great. Brought $200 worth of change and cashed it in at no charge. Tables dealers were also helpful to those in need and efficient and courteous. Free soft drinks and coffee. After so late all the places to eat on the inside quit serving food most of the late night hours. They should have at least some lil spot to grab a snack. I understand not having the bigger restaurant open but nothing. A lil hungry and that sure could have made my empty pockets not feel too bad cause at least my belly would be full.
jason jarvis — Google review
Wow, what an incredible experience! We recently stayed at the Route 66 RV Resort and it exceeded our expectations in every way.
The resort is immaculately maintained, with beautiful landscaping and spotless facilities. The staff is friendly and welcoming, going above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The RV sites are spacious and well-equipped, with full hookups and plenty of amenities. We loved the resort's nostalgic theme, paying homage to the classic Route 66 era. The pool and hot tub were perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring.
Yerika Perez — Google review
We've stayed at both the hotel and the RV park and have thoroughly enjoyed both of them! The hotel staff is super friendly from check in to check out. It seems that most of them enjoy their job and are happy to have you there. The rooms in the hotel are very clean and well appointed with perhaps some of the most comfortable beds in Albuquerque! The RV park is very nice with nice large spaces and is extremely well maintained. We've stayed a few times and there is always someone out cleaning, raking and tending to the sites. Highly recommend both of them! The casino itself is a bit odd, no drinking on the floor of the casino and very little staff to help out when needed. It was also very tight for us!
Cindy Pealstrom — Google review
It does not have a view, the casino staff are very unfriendly, not accommodating in beverages. Floor manager, very nice, only one with a smile! Plus everyone complains no one wins, so save your money and go to Sandia now that's a view! Snack bar is horrid eat before u go! You'll be in and out there! Machines so tight the eagle screams!
Denisha Romero — Google review
Clean, comfortable room, easy check in, moderately priced but made that back in the Casino! Excellent burgers at the Cantina where Marta provided friendly, professional, quick table service. Also enjoyed a night-cap at Stadium 66. Friendly and efficient staff there, as well.
J Johnson — Google review
Very clean and right off the interstate. Rates beat the local hotels by $100 a night. Service was slow in the bar but the food was good. Drink prices were extremely high. Casino is non smoking.
Charlotte Giddens — Google review
I used to really like staying here..... "used to" are the key words. It's become a big disappointment for the price you pay for a room. The buffet & Sidewalk cafe are closed. The snack bar has extremely limited items. No fries & no burgers so you have to wait for the Laguna Burger place to open. I tried ordering a tuna salad & was told it would be about 2 hours for them to cut tomatoes. I told them I'll take it without tomatoes & the staff told me to come back in 2 hours. I asked for popcorn because the Bingo snack bar wasn't open & again I was told it's not ready. I offered to wait but the staff got loud & told me to come back in 2 hours. I went back 2 hours later & before I could open my mouth to place my order, they snapped & said the tomatoes still had not been cut. WTH! They don't even have yogurt at the snack bar. They no longer have a gift shop where you could go to buy necessities. You have to WALK to the gas station because the shuttle isn't running any more. There is no bell staff so be prepared to load & unload your luggage yourself. I got there early, with my luggage in tow, and the front desk wouldn't store my bag any where so I took it back to my vehicle. The chair in the room at the desk was dirty. Good thing I still carry gloves & disinfectant wipes with me.
Basically, you pay resort fees but it's far from being a resort. I have pictures of the chair but my tablet won't let me attach pictures.
Laura Bennett — Google review
This is a very good Casino to visit. The facilities are nice and clean. It has a variety of food. They offer great customer service. They also offer courtesy drinks to the customers.
They also offer Truck Parking... so this is a Truck Driver Friendly Casino. Excellent
I would definitely recommend Route 66 Casino Hotel.
Alberto González Alvarado — Google review
Getting My Kicks and Winning Big at Route 66 Hotel and Casino
I recently had a fabulous experience at Route 66 Hotel and Casino, and it truly lived up to the iconic reputation of the historic highway. From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a memorable time.
The casino vibe was electric, and I'm thrilled to say that luck was on my side. I not only got my kicks but also walked away with more than $800 in winnings. The variety of games and the overall setup of the casino created an exciting atmosphere that added to the thrill of the gaming experience.
The staff at Route 66 were friendly and accommodating, contributing to the overall positive ambiance of the venue. Whether I was trying my luck at the slots or enjoying other amenities, the service was top-notch.
What sets Route 66 Hotel and Casino apart is not just the gaming but the overall entertainment experience. The atmosphere was vibrant, and the place exuded a sense of excitement that kept me engaged throughout my visit.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a great time, fantastic gaming opportunities, and a chance to win big, Route 66 Hotel and Casino is the place to be. My experience was nothing short of fabulous, and I can't wait to return for another round of kicks and, hopefully, more winnings. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an unforgettable casino adventure!
Christopher Hardy — Google review
Well they didn’t honor the truck drivers dinner that I’ve heard so many people talk about. The steak I ordered was cooked the way I asked and sides were fine. Just nothing to write home about and lack of service from wait staff made for a regrettable decision to stop. No poker tables? I don’t understand how they can stay popular, oh well I guess that’s why the parking lot is mostly empty on a weekend at 5pm
Joshua Stutts — Google review
The slots pay great, the parking lot is safe for travelers, with security driving around. Some furniture is a little messed up in the rooms but clean sheets and bathroom and shower were very clean.
Amir Abdulla — Google review
We live in TX and my mom lives in California. Every once or twice a year we’ll drive to her place to stay a while, then we’ll drive her to TX to stay with us a while. Every trip she wants us to stay at the Route 66 Casino Hotel, so we do! It’s a great place to spend a night or three.
Jose Dizon — Google review
4.1
(10451)
•
3.5
(196)
14500 Central Ave SW, Rio Puerco, Albuquerque, NM 87121, USA
Geological landscape created by ancient volcanic activity, popular for hiking & permit-only caving.
Only drove through on the highway, but it was very beautiful. I had to stop a couple times for photos. Lovely rock formations rise above you, sprouting from the sage plains.
Foodtruck Time — Google review
Mar 31. 2024
I was exploring google maps for places to explore near ABQ area on weekend while on business trip and this place showed up, reviews convinced me to visit this place. 90 minute drive was 100% worth it.
This place consists of multiple places that you can visit which includes:
El Malpais Ranger Station (open only on Fri-Sun)
Sandstone Bluffs
La Ventana Natrual Arch
Lava Falls Trailhead
Every place is a hidden jam. I’d recommend one full day to visit all those places to grasp it all fully.
Artem Metelskiy — Google review
Visiting the bluffs was much better this time around! Last time it was so windy that the sand and dirt painfully whipped our skin, but it was a still and clear day. Love being able to free climb the rocks without any clear trail. Only wish I had more time to read a book amongst the rocks
Morghan Townsend — Google review
Skylight was still there as of 11/23/2023. Was able to go in and check it out. Would definitely recommend using proper shoes for this! Over all very neat to see!
Amber Stewart — Google review
Joe Steen campground is a beautiful little nine site campground. Each site has a covered picnic table, grill and fire pit. Several very clean pit toilets and garbage cans too. It’s also free so that’s great. Dry camp / boondock.
Noelle McGarvey — Google review
We stopped at the Visitor Center on Tuesday the 24th. The center was nice, had plenty of details regarding the ring of volcanoes and the lava glow. A Thank you to the Ranger who shared details about the park with us. She was on loan from a nearby park, but was knowledgeable enough to enhance our visit.
Temecula6 — Google review
Stopped by for a day hike and was super impressed by the visitor center...clean and bright. The short film was well worth watching and made me excited to return during the summer months. It was cold and snowy while we were there which made the lava trail hike a bit more challenging to find good footing under the snow but overall it was a great little scramble and the snow added a certain beauty to the experience. We were the only ones on the trails and at the visitor center. Will head back to try the Sand stone bluffs trail and Rl Calderon. Also looks like a good bat program during the summer evenings. New Mexico is blessed with so many beautiful, uncrowded National monuments with good hiking.
C Winter — Google review
One of the most magical places if you can slow down to take it in. You can definitely hear the voices of the past here. I have passed through twice now and am very eager to stay in the grounds. There is a BLM campground with a few dedicated spots. Seems to fill early. There are hikes as well as a few unmaintained roads to explore.
I W — Google review
We stopped here by chance after grabbing some lunch and gas. It made for a great 2 hour stop. We climbed all around the sandstone bluffs and then hit the La Ventana Arch. I would have liked to have more time to spend there. Highly recommended to visit.
Robert Heath — Google review
4/1/2018: I drove through and stopped at the Visitor Center which had a wonderful film to watch which showed all the places I couldn't get to. I did stop at El Cauldron to take pics of the lava and the landscapes were magnificent.
Terri Moore — Google review
WOW! So many awesome things to see here. Be sure to pull off at all the stops and explore. The views are amazing. They also all have bathrooms which is nice.
Jeffrey Denson — Google review
Amazing! I’m from NW NM and never knew this kind of beauty existed in the state! Now when people comment on how beautiful NM is, I will heartily agree. This little known National Monument is worth retiring off the interstate to visit. We all loved climbing on the rocks at Sandstone Bluffs Overlook - what a view! Further up the road is La Ventana Natural Arch. I was expecting something small, but was amazed at the size of the arch! Forget Utah National Parks - NM has amazing rock formations too!
El Morro National Monument is a historic park with sandstone bluffs towering over 200 feet high. The area contains over 2,000 signatures etched into the rock dating back to ancient Pueblo times. This pristine and well-maintained park features Inscription Trail, which provides informative markers about the many travelers who visited throughout history, including Indians, explorers, soldiers, and pioneers. It's recommended to visit in the morning when the light shines spectacularly on the sheer cliffs.
One of the most pristine, historical and well maintained parks we have ever been to. Inscription trail was amazing..the numbered markers provided excellent information about the many travelers that visited over the centuries...Definitely go in the morning, the light on the sheer cliffs is spectacular. Park rangers were VERY helpful and knowledgeable about the park and the surrounding area.
Chuck Tracy — Google review
Paid a visit to El Morro National Monument during the winter season, primarily as a overnight stop along my cross country road trip route. There are no entrance or use fees here, including the free campground. The eight site campground features well spaced, mostly private sites and his & hers vault toilets. The views of the surrounding valley and bluffs are rather lovely. Would definitely recommend for anyone in the area or transiting I-40 as a scenic byway that's worth a visit. There was snow during my visit, but the road into the facility and campground loop were plowed; the trail network near the visitors center was partially closed for safety due to ice.
Ben Brannon — Google review
Great National Monument, sometimes it seems that the smaller ones are better. No crowds great views and some awesome history. It was so cool to see all of the carvings from Native Americans to Knights in the Spanish army to Civil War captains. Great place to visit. So super cool!
Rob M. — Google review
A beautiful scenic location with amazing rock formation. Driving up here (from the east) passing the continental divide at 7800 feet is itself an experience.
Rashid Farook — Google review
The monument is beautiful and well worth the detour. The staff, however, treated my group with prejudice. They were very kind and welcoming to the white guest. We did not let that ruin our experience and remained respectful.
Aku3a — Google review
Spectacular! Can't miss this. Took one of the most extraordinary hikes ever... Stunningly beautiful. The trail winds around Inscription rock where you see petroglyphs, and inscriptions from the Conquistadors, and other soldiers, scientists etc. then winds around to top the top of Inscription rock where there are ruins of an ancient Pueblo, but what comes after, is the best surprise...
Aargh42 G — Google review
El Morro National Monument is a great place to view historical messages and petroglyphs. Take the half mile Inscription Trail to see the pool of water that collects near the base of the sandstone Bluff, which drew Puebloans, Spanish, and Americans to this location. The Juniper trees make the area smell amazing. Kids will enjoy earning Junior Ranger badges, and the trail is paved and doable for most people.
Krystle Gleason — Google review
One of the best experiences!! I was so happy to be able to visit a place where my dogs could go on the hike with me. It was a beautiful hike with lots of information. The park rangers were super nice. I especially was thankful for the information given to me about the camels. It is great information I will pass on. I recommend hiking the whole circle it is worth the views at the top. Please anyone taking pups, clean up after them so this park can stay dog friendly. Dog friendly parks are rare.
Mopsy McCasland — Google review
This monument combines staggering natural beauty with historical significance. Three waves of visitors--Pueblo, Spanish and American--have etched writings and drawings into this massive sandstone bluff over the course of many centuries. This has been a real highlight of our trip to New Mexico.
Michael Yost — Google review
On a cold, snowy Monday afternoon we had the entire park to ourselves. Due to snow not all hiking trails were open. That didn't diminish this trip at all. The area is just beautiful, and the history here is incredible. Carved into the sandstone bluff are petroglyphs, names, and dates, dating back to the 1500's. Onate carved his name into this rock over 10 years before anyone had landed at Plymouth Rock. This is really a must see for anyone who loves the history of the Southwest. The park is also a designated Dark Sky Park and there are stargazing events held here in the warmer months. As of the date of this review the park is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Mark Gruen — Google review
This place is why New Mexico is call the land of enchantment. Wow! The petroglyphs were fantastic. The signatures of the Spanish from the with dates from the 1700’s, the American military signatures from the 1800’s, amazing stone work art with the signatures too. The ancient pond was great. The hike to the top of the cliffs to see the ruins of native peoples was way cool. This park is so well kept. The rangers are very well informed and happy to share any and all information with you. This was treat an indeed. Get there early because they close the hike up to the top of the mountain at 2 or 3pm. Clean bathrooms too. And don’t ignore the thick forest that surrounds the park. So peaceful.
Warning! This park will be hard for folks who have difficulty walking. Plus, there is no wheelchair access to the top of the cliff to see the the Native American site ruins. However, a wheelchair can easily do the 1/4 mile loop to see the engravings, petroglyphs, and the water hole. If you are disabled, don’t attempt to hike to the top. It’s a challenge. I didn’t make it. I had to send my son with the camera. Very steep climb with stairs.
Amazing place.
Melody East — Google review
Beautiful light hike for a couple hours! Inscription’s are incredible!
Jason Malone — Google review
This was an unexpected gem. We toured the monument on a bright, cool, blustery New Mexico Spring day. Stopped into the Center (the trails are accessed through the back) to view a short video and pick up a trail guide (you can borrow one or buy for $2). The trail is designed to be hiked counter clockwise starting with the inscriptions and continuing to the top of the Mesa. The Mesa is scaled through a series of switchbacks with a 400 foot vertical ascent. Nothing too strenuous. The trail is well marked with some stretches across barren rock where you are exposed to the winds. The descent is mostly by stairs hewn into the rock. I suffer from Vertigo but had no trouble navigating some of the more exposed areas. I did see dogs on the trail. The hike takes over 2 hours with much of the time spent taking photos and reading inscriptions. There were about a dozen people on the trail when we were there but I suspect it gets crowded when the schools let out.
Jeff Breault — Google review
El Morro National Monument is definitely worth a visit. It was supposed to be a quick stop but it turned out to be one of the better hikes that we took while we were on vacation. Definitely would suggest that everyone should stop and spend a half a day or more.
Circular hikes lead to flat-topped hills with rock layers in shades of blue, gray & purple.
Nice easy walk down below. I expected it to be more blue, but it wasn't even its in the name.. You get to see some petrified wood around the area too upclose.
Rob Biemans — Google review
It's a short but occasionally strenuous trek through the gouged-out beauty of the Blue Mesa. Which actually isn't all that blue. The dominant hues are white, gray, red and brown, with a little blue mixed in here and there. The sides of the mesa seem to be melting away, creating canyons and enormous piles of stoney soil. The tableau you see looks like a snapshot of scoops of ice cream melting.
Allen Parsons — Google review
Amazing nature. Ever see this before 😍😍
Khanhlinh Le Begin — Google review
Blue Mesa has become my favourite place we've visitied in a road trip in the US, amazing and magical place. Breathtaking colors, couldn't get enough of it!
Berta Canaleta — Google review
Amazing blue mesa.
Anu Chitrangana — Google review
The hike was worth the effort. Stunning.
David Lindie — Google review
Very Amazing scenery
John Albritton — Google review
Great views of the area
Jenny Trax — Google review
4.9
(17)
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5.0
(309)
Arizona 86502, USA
17
Petrified Forest Gift Shop
Gift shop
Nature & Parks
Deserts
National Parks
Parks
Awesome place to visit before entering the park.
My life With Abilities — Google review
Rolled in late for a camp spot. Around 7:30/8. The gift shop was closed but there was an attendant on a golf cart available. It’s $25 for electric. No sewer or water. And $10 for WiFi. All in all was good visit. Start at the entrance off 40 and make your way down to the camp ground
Rachel Uilk — Google review
We arrived an hour and 15 minutes before closing and we’re planning on purchasing pottery pieces, and possibly some nice pieces of petrified wood. However, while making our final selection, the woman yells out…”If you’re shopping get out, if your buying, check out quickly so I can go home.” This was still an hour before posted closing time. I put back my purchases and left because of the rudeness. As we exited the gate to enter/exit was locked so we had to wait for Ms.. Pleasant to let us out.
Tiffany Albertson — Google review
It may say "Museum" on the outside but, it's 99% gift shop. It has typical, high tourist prices. A large sign outside says "Clean restrooms" but, they're always closed. That must be how they stay clean. No pictures are allowed inside. (How do they expect you to text a pic to someone to see if they want you to buy it. Dogs are allowed as long as you carry them.
Kurt Willmon — Google review
Loved the car in the parking lot! Got some cute pics of it. The "free" piece of Petrified Forest is a joke...Lost mine but not mad about it. Too expensive. Left quicky. Don't waste your time there. Go just to see the car!
Ahliviyah Smith — Google review
Cool history here, stayed in the rv with 30amp for $25.
Craig Olsen — Google review
Nice shop full of gifts ect, had great customer service but these large mugs are not made well. The second time i used my mug for hot tea it cracked all the way to the bottom. For cold or warm beverages only i guess 😢
kayla kamolz — Google review
Nice gift shop, but I was thrilled to notice that they also have RV sites! Prices are fantastic, especially considering that it's just outside the entrance to Petrified Forest National Park
Kenneth Corley — Google review
Really cool shop with a nice parking space for RV's with electrical hookup (for a fee). As a bonus the skies here are the darkest I've ever seen so if you're into stargazing and/or astrophotography this is a great location.
Brent Fugett — Google review
The gift shop is run by members of the Navajo tribe. The staff were friendly and helpful. Prices of general petrified wood (all taken from areas outside of the national park) were reasonable, however, the prices on polished petrified wood were very inflated. Prices on some of the other items also seemed quite high. There was a nice selection of items.
Mister Jon — Google review
Parked our RV for the night. If going East on 40, stay here or across the street for free camping and then head N into park. You can catch 40 when your done tour. Saves time when getting back on 40. Such a quiet night sleep. Only electrical. Gift shop was great. Part shop, part Museum. Very friendly staff. Great sunset.
Jim Gray's Petrified Wood Co is a haven for rock and fossil enthusiasts, offering an extensive array of petrified wood, fossils, and minerals. From small trinkets to sizable pieces of petrified wood, the shop boasts a diverse selection. Visitors are impressed by the museum-quality collection on display, which includes collectibles, artifacts, and fossils not available for purchase. Customers also appreciate the reasonable prices compared to other similar establishments.
Such a beautiful place!! I could spend all day here! There is a large variety of petrified wood and a good mix ox Gems and minerals. Even jewelry made from them. And then I found their outside area. Omg, huge amount of geode’s to pick from as well as a few other large stones. Like pink quarts and even mint colors too. I need to go back like all the time now.
Mrs Dickson — Google review
Who knew a trip to Holbrook, Arizona could turn you into a stone-cold fan of petrified wood? Well, Jim Gray's Petrified Wood Co did exactly that! This place isn't just a store; it's a wonderland for anyone who appreciates the art of nature frozen in time.
Walking in, I was greeted by a forest of petrified wood that could rival the actual Petrified Forest National Park. I mean, the collection is so extensive, I half-expected to see a petrified squirrel holding a tiny petrified acorn! From monumental logs that made me feel like a Lilliputian in Gulliver's Travels to itty-bitty pieces perfect for my pocket, they've got every size for every enthusiast.
But wait, there's more! Wander into their special fossil section, and it's like stepping back a few million years. The fossils are so impressive; I half-expected a dinosaur to stroll in asking for directions to the nearest tar pit. Some of these fossils are so huge, they make you wonder how they ever fit them through the door.
In conclusion, if you're looking to add a bit of prehistoric pizzazz to your life or just want to have a 'rockin' good time, Jim Gray's Petrified Wood Co in Holbrook is the place!!
Shawn Smith — Google review
This was one of my highlights of my trip. I recommend visiting AFTER you go through the National Park, so you have an appreciation for the setting. The store has a wide suite of rocks & fossils for sale, and also specimens you can view that are not for sale. As a geologist, I really enjoyed just walking around and looking at rocks - lots of rocks polished and raw and carved. My only regret was that the staff were friendly, but not "experts" in the rocks in the store - I was hoping the person who compiled this wonderful collection would be there. WORTH STOPPING IN. I ended up buying three items at about $50 each and having the store ship them directly to my home - they were friendly and helpful and made the shipping easy as they handled it directly for the cost of shipping. Wish I could return with my wife and again with my grandkids (or wish I could have brought my kids when they were young). Just to walk around all of their inventory outside is amazing in itself, but the inside is even more fun.
Jim Tolbert — Google review
Amazing place to buy souvenir, you found every kind of interesting things
Allan Salmeron — Google review
I checked 4 stores for petrified wood. This place had the biggest selection and best prices. Other shops were 3-4x more. And the staff was very friendly.
Randy Goodman — Google review
This place came highly recommended by the Thanx-a-Latte people down the road (great place for gifts and coffee!). We were on our way out of town, but had to stop here first. So glad we did. Fun, large shop with a pond in it with Koi and a turtle. They have tons of beautiful petrified wood, carved wood, stones, gems, jewelry and fossils. Definitely worth the stop. Fun place for kids too!
Marie Kuranishi — Google review
A must-see destination if you're in the area. Lots of different kinds of rocks and gems for sale. Also, a museum quality collection of rocks and fossils.
Wayne Frazier — Google review
If my rating were solely based on variety and volume the place would get 6/5 stars. Overall I gave it a 4 because I found the prices to be sky high compared to many rock shops. I’m a rockhound and I sell my material for considerably less. Furthermore the overabundance of signs around the store stating “you break it, you buy it “ are not necessary to make that message clear to customers and are borderline rude. Nonetheless, the quality of craftsmanship and the place looking like a museum redeemed the experience for me. Staff were very kind to me as well.
Matt Sespico — Google review
Really enjoyed this stop. Lots of petrified wood, rocks, fossils, and a nice fountain.
Lemmie Klein — Google review
If you are into rocks and minerals this is the place to visit. There are so many different options and at the very least, it has a very cool museum with lots of collectibles, artifacts, fossils, etc that aren’t even for sale. I was so impressed with this place that I came back a second time with a friend who uses rocks and minerals for healing. We overheard people talking about how much they overpaid at the previous place they stopped by. They couldn’t get over how good these prices were. I happen to agree. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable and it was such a pleasure buying from this store. Definitely worth a stop by if you are in the area. Not too far from Petrified Forest National Park.
Michael Chodroff — Google review
This place is HUGE. I was there for an hour trying to decide what I wanted to buy. I knew this was likely the only time I'd make the 600 mile round trip drive, so selecting my items was really important. There are rows upon rows of petrified wood in various colors, sizes, types of wood, and country of origin. Additionally, items of quartz and other gems/minerals were everywhere. There are 40 million year old fossils for sale. I finally ended up with a polished slice of an Arizona petrified log (the reddish piece), one from Madagascar, a little elephant hand-carved from ironwood, and two softball sized geodes that I hope to open and find something nice. Definitely worth the stop. Just plan on staying a while.
TakayasMom — Google review
Best gift shop in town with a huge selection and friendly staff!!
James Hudson — Google review
This place is amazing! There are a lot of cool items, and the staff are very friendly. They had a lot of interesting items on display, and its definitely worth visiting to get some great crystals and fossils. I had fun just walking around and looking, and also bought a shark tooth and some rocks and petrified wood. There is a huge selection, and I added some photos of things that caught my eye.
Lily A W — Google review
Was expecting a tourist gimmick trap. Honestly. One of the coolest places I've been to. It's nice enough I would have paid $7 a person just to get in to look at all the minerals they have. Please don't read this and start charging money Jim.
As soon as I become a millionair I will be back and buy up all they have to offer. Must see on your trip. I would drive maybe 45 minutes out of my way to visit this shop. If I had 10k for a new coffee table I would travel across country for one of the ones offered here.
The Standin' on The Corner Foundation is a small historical park that showcases a two-story mural, life-size statue and built-in seats. This attraction is famous for the song Take it Easy by the Eagles. If you like The Eagles, you need to check out this spot while in Winslow Arizona. It's located off of Old Route 66.
This is a cool little spot in Winslow Arizona. Made famous by the Eagles Song- Take it Easy. Worth a stop to see it and stop in at one of the local shops. Very nostalgic on Old Route 66
Jason Wann — Google review
Winslow, Arizona has chosen to memorialize an old song by the Eagles. They have decorated a large corner lot downtown, and changed it into a park. There are several places to eat in town, in case you want to add a meal to your stop.
"Standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona - what a fine sight to see. There's a girl my Lord, in a flatbed Ford, slowing down to take a look at me."
It was fun to take a few quick photos, since I had heard this place existed.
The town is very cute, clean, and friendly.
They have added a wall with some wings made from motorcycle pipes. You can stand in front of the pipes, if you want to look like an angel.
It was a very fun stop!
Molly Zabrowski — Google review
It was so amazing to be here, taking it easy. The statue of Glenn Fry, the mural behind him, and the red flat bed Ford made it fun to take pictures and not let our wheels drive us crazy! In the middle of the road was painted the Route 66 emblem. Very cool to see it. Great stop, for sure!
Theresa Roman — Google review
This in a really cool place. Especially if you’re an Eagles fan and like the song “Take It Easy”. The song sings about Winslow AZ.
I took a 3 week circle around the US and Route 66 was part of my trip. This tribute to the song (or does the song tribute the town…?) The girl in a flat bed Ford. It’s all in the windows behind the sculptures. I’ve added the plaques that explain how it came about.
It’s a really need to see if you are in the area. Parking was easy for me. Though I can see that if it is a busy weekend or if anything is going on, parking could be a problem.
Melissa Barnett — Google review
A great tribute to the Eagles standing on the corner of Winslow Arizona set up very well great for picture taking and the store has plenty of different types of items for purchase. The store personnel were very nice and accommodating. The town was very clean and put together very well.
Nancy Steadmon — Google review
What a cool spot, the musical history here is just oozing all over. There is a great mural, nicely placed statues of Glen Fry and Jackson Brown and a flatbed Ford. We were lucky enough to grab some pics and listen to a blues man across the street. This is a must see for all Eagles and Jackson Brown fans.
James Klein — Google review
We loved the people in Winslow. The food was awesome and all the dogs were happy. The visitors Center was so nice and helpful. They allow overnight parking in there over flow parking lot.
Shirley Brooks — Google review
We are here driving the Route 66. This was an amazing little stop with great photo opportunities. The route 66 sign in the road is huge and easy to capture as the roads are not too busy. The mural on the corner is bright and clear, with great detail. It depicts all the lyrics in the 'Take it easy' song by the Eagles. In front of the mural are two statues - one is the boy on the corner (many say this is Jackson Browne), and one is of Glenn Frey of the Eagles. Glen Frey wrote the song with Jackson Browne.
It didn't take long for the area to be clear of other visitors, enabling plenty of really good pictures.
Plenty of road parking available nearby along any of the roads.
Lots of museums and gift shops are located in the vicinity. I highly recommend this stop to anyone travelling Route 66 or any fans of the Eagles. In fact, it's a great place for all.
Nikki Palethorpe — Google review
A lot of history, a lot of shops, and even live entertainment Tommy Dukes, great guy very lively and entertaining (funny as well) lol.
Kids loved the environment and how fun it was. Took us a few minutes to find it, but it was well worth it. A must visit when in town, specially if you're planning a night out.
evaristo martinez — Google review
Great place to stop. First, you are living in the song. Secondly it is clean. Third, it is easy to get to and park. Plus, they have an ice cream shop and places to eat. A nice park a few steps away. Defiently a fun place to stop and stretch your legs
Cori Harper — Google review
The place is about as cool as it gets! Rock & Roll nostalgia, Historic Route 66, and a little slice of Americana. What's not to love?! I definitely would plan to spend at least an hour or two walking around. There are cool shops, great smelling restaurants, and live music at nearby places.
Joseph Kennedy — Google review
Really cool spot! We spent a few hours sightseeing and enjoyed a lunch here. Wish we could have stayed for the "Standing on the Corner" festival...a must stop and check it out place.
Andy Bratz — Google review
You cannot drive down Interstate 40 in Arizona without stopping into the community of Winslow AZ. of Eagles famed “Take it Easy” fame in Winslow Arizona. It was such a fine sight to see … The flatbed Ford was there, minus the girl driving it, and the statue of Glenn Frey had plenty of girls and their guys taking pictures of the scenic stop. Eagles memorabilia abounds in the nearby shops. Something will get your attention, a couple items got mine, simply to remind me of being there and how much I loved the song. Definitely a to do if you’re in the area.
Ethan Abel — Google review
This was always a place we were going to visit in the States, if we were in the general area and now was that time!
We actually stayed in town (Earl's Motor Court) and saw the corner in the dark, when we arrived and again, in the morning, when it was light. It's done up really nicely and brings to life 'Take It Easy' by The Eagles and, at the same time, Route 66.
When we were there, an Italian was visiting on a bike. Obviously, you have to get loads of pictures for the memories.
Oh, and by the way, we had breakfast in the Flatbed cafe!
John Burdis — Google review
This is such a cute little attraction. If you like The Eagles, you have to stop into this cute little historic location and take a picture and have a bite at one of the local restaurants. If you don't like The Eagles, stop by anyway. It's right off the highway.
Erin Kriz — Google review
This is a fun stop if you are traveling Route 66/ I-40 through Arizona. There are several shops and dining options. The corner has been turned into an adorable photography opportunity.
Anna Zucker — Google review
After 24 years of living in AZ, I finally got to Stand on the Corner. Really nice little tribute. Not crowded at all. However, we were there on a Thursday morning.
Christine Gray — Google review
Easy to find. 8 minute drive from the interstate. Near the historical railroad station. Several historical buildings around the area. Souvenir shops and places to eat all around this location. Location made famous from the Eagles song Take It Easy. Come early on any morning to avoid the tourist crowds. Several other buildings and things to see and take photos of in the area. So don't just take a few photos and run off.
Willy Olsen — Google review
We went here because my mom really wanted to visit the corner. There are gift shops, bathrooms, & food around the area. If you know the song I think it is a cool place to visit. It's one of those places where you visit it one time & you are good for the rest of your life (in my case 😆).
Kelsea Reed — Google review
Short drive from the interstate. Easy to locate. Historic train station just down the street. The corner made famous by the Eagles song "Take It Easy". Souvenir shops, restaurants and several other interesting buildings to see and take photos of. Come early in the morning to avoid the heat and droves of tourists.
Willy “JR” Olsen — Google review
Like everyone else who visits this place, I am an Eagles fan. My wife and I have wanted to come here and pay our respects to Glenn Frey, and the song, for a long long time. Eagles music playing from a speaker from a restaurant across the street. The restaurant was called Take It Easy.
My wife and I on the ride home from my daughter's house in Missouri, passing Winslow Arizona and knew we would stop.
It's an awesome place to pull in, visit the landmark, get some gas and some grub. We truly enjoyed it.
Russell — Google review
Absolutely a gem of a stop! We love the Eagles and this quaint cute little town is so beautiful. We loved the gift shop across the street on right from corner. You won’t be disappointed! We stopped early morning and didn’t get food here. Just enjoyed walking around.
Angie Burgess — Google review
This is such a fun experience, as a piece of music history comes to life right before your eyes. This can be a quick stop, or you can take your time and explore the shops in downtown Winslow. Lots of great photo opportunities!
The two gift shops on the corner are your average tourists stops - be sure to get a pressed penny for your collection! There are a few other local shops near the corner as well as a fun pawn shop on the other end of town.
Windslow is a fun pass through experience on Route 66, and also has a nice 911 memorial near the dog park on the edge on town.
Bethany LaLoge — Google review
Such a fine sight to see! Loved the corner, the statues and tributes to the Eagles and Take It Easy. Very quaint little town, and everyone was very friendly. We popped into the Sipp Shoppe across the street, as well. Very happy we paid a visit to this corner in Winslow, AZ.
John Rodriguez — Google review
Neat little place to stop just to say you have been there and done that. My wife and I did just that when we were traveling from Vegas back to Texas. Spent a few minutes there talking to a nice gentlemen about 9am that weekday morning. No one else was around so we had the place to ourselves. Glad we stopped!
Brandon — Google review
We had a great docent at the little museum. The gift shops on each corner had lots of Route 66 memorabilia for fun browsing.
Nancy Winfrey — Google review
Lighten up while you still can, don't even try to understand,
just find a place to make your stand and take it easy.
-The Eagles, "Take It Easy" (1972)
I don't know if it was a highlight of my trip but it was certainly a "must do" as I passed through Winslow for a detour onto Route 66. This is the famous corner referenced by the Eagles song "Take It Easy" https://youtu.be/AaBw37-nWaY and yes, the statutes are not Jackson Browne (the one closer to the corner) and Glenn Frey (further away from the corner).
The street parking is free, there are quick eats nearby if you want to cool off from the Arizona heat with a frosty beverage. Pop down the street to the World's Smallest Church while you're here.
Bruce K. — Google review
What a great stop this is! I like The Eagles, especially their old stuff, and Take it Easy has always been a favorite tune of mine. Winslow has done a very good job capitalizing on the song with a dedicated corner that guests can visit as they imagine Glenn Frey writing the song. The is a statue of Frey as he was in The Eagles' early years. There is also a nice hotel backdrop, several murals in town, a big "route 66" sign painted on the road at the intersection, and many eateries with outdoor sidewalk dining. We only spent about a half hour, but it was a very nice visit!
Greg Squyres — Google review
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Corner of Kinsley &, E 2nd St, Winslow, AZ 86047, USA
Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is a fascinating ancient meteorite impact site, showcasing the impressive scale of the crater. The attraction features an interpretive center, theater, gift shop and concessions for visitors to enjoy. While the museum may be small, it offers fun exhibits and a short video that provides insight into the site's history.
Awesome place to visit! The museum is small but fun, the theater plays a short video describing the site history, but the true gem is the crater itself. The scale here must be seen and experienced. It's outstanding! And since you'll be out standing on a tall outcrop, bring a jacket. The views are photo worthy, but the wind can dampen the experience if you're not prepared.
Kay W — Google review
Interesting museum dedicated to meteoric study. The landmark itself is amazing, and the documentation and historical overview most informative. There is also a 3D Simulation ride/film that is quite fun. Staff in the gift shop were engaged and enthusiastic. A most pleasant side trip off the highway. Recommended.
Cathleen Colehour — Google review
Its pretty neat to see. Recommend taking the 45 minute guided tour. Dress for the weather if you do. The museum exhibit is good an informative. There is also a little snack shop with some sandwiches and beverages. The gift shop is pretty good a well.
James Janidas — Google review
I didn't even know about this place until I started planning Route66. Impressive landmark. Staying on the edge of the crater it is still hard to imagine how that impact took place. Recomended for visiting. Just drink enough water and protect yourself from sun
Dan — Google review
The site is a scientific phenomenon. The information is presented very well. The film discussing how the crater was formed is very good, just the right length. Overall a good place to learn about how meteors influenced the Earth's evolution.
Paul Chapa Sr — Google review
Knowledgeable and friendly staff. The crater is something to behold. The cafe was a neat atmosphere, but if seemed like they stopped serving food pretty early, but that might've been due to the holiday weekend.
Ameen Syed — Google review
We have passed by and never stopped but decided to plan a trip here. It is full of such interesting information. The movie was really informative. Unfortunately, the wings were crazy due to a storm that was coming in, so the outside rim tour was canceled. You could go out on the main deck and see the crater, but you couldn't go to the higher deck. The wind almost knocked me down so I took a couple of quick pictures and went back inside. They have a motion ride that was fun. Everything is included in the price of your admission. They offer a military discount, which was nice. They have elevators, which is perfect for those who are unable to climb stairs. They have a nice cafe that has hot dogs, Philly cheesestesk sandwiches, pretzels, muffins, turnovers, and a lot more. The gift shop was nice and had some great items. You won't find a nicer crater that is preserved. Definitely stop here.
Donna Smith — Google review
Was a nice drive out. I didn't go in due to it being closed. But I got to enjoy the peacefulness at night. It's a bit of a shame that all natural wonders have to be blocked off because we can't control or trust our selves enough to preserve them for future generations. I can only hope humanity will become better in the future.
Raphael Whitten — Google review
Amazing place!! Very educational as well inside the museum area. The outdoor gives you a wow factor and tell you the power of nature. Great for families and friends. Gift shop is a bit price like Disney pricey but overall is ok.
Cesar Cordoba — Google review
What a great place!! Unique like nothing else. We found it by chance on our way. Fantastic driveway on your way there and unique relics from our solar system and beyond. Buy merch in your way out, is a must!! Have water with you if it’s sunny. You’ll need around an hour to see around maximum.
PANAGIOTIS XOURIS — Google review
This was another pretty cool stop along the way on our cross-country road trip. We were here for a good 90 minutes, there's a lot to see within the walls of this center. Very informative, with interactive displays and such. You can go outside and view the crater from a few different platforms. There was a line of about 20 people when we arrived but you get through that pretty quickly, and then you can pretty much go in and see what you want and start where you want.
The Fab Forty — Google review
We left early, arrived shortly after opening,,Temperature was good...They have a nice cafe inside. They have a 10 minute film describing the Meteor Crater, a 4-D ride that children would love, last 10 minutes...The Guided tour is about half-mile out into the rim..Its about 45-55 minutes out and back...It has amazing views..
Keith Byrd — Google review
Awesome!
We couldn't get the guided tour because of high winds so I can't comment on that.
But if you want to spend a couple of hours to see a one of a kind phenomena, go to the crater. Yeah it's a few dollars and overpriced, but if you can save up some money, I recommend it. I don't need to ever go back but I'm glad I went.
Luke Bilow — Google review
This place was not bad, I would have given it 4 stars, but there was a particular issue that occurred and so if you are interested in that, read my second paragraph. We stopped here on a whim on our way to the Petrified forest national park. It had some fun things, a short museum walkthrough with a lot of information, a quick video that tells about the impact, a few different observation decks which have "free" binoculars set up. (I say free like that because it does cost a fee to enter.) They do have a cafe with snack type foods, tea, and coffee as well. And a gift shop. There is also a 4D experience that we did not do. It may or may not be good, but it looked fun. But, I'd say the main reason to go here is the guided tour.
This is the problem we had. The information about the crater that you was great, our guide was very knowledgeable about the topics at hand. But... he was very outspoken about being pro guns. I am not personally offended by this stance, though the comments he made about getting "kids who trespass in his sights." Things said like that, I am really put off by. As a tour guide, I don't believe getting political is a part of the job. There were many other comments during the tour, specifically about guns as well. And mind you, I also have a 6 year old that was with me on the tour. He was even put off by these comments and mentioned it later to me.
Yarrow Stanley — Google review
Interesting and interactive exhibits around the Crater make it a fun experience for adults and children. The staff was friendly and helpful. Discounts available for seniors and military. Well worth stopping off to visit this landmark.
Linda O — Google review
We went on a Friday at eight. This mile in diameter meteor Crater is amazing; I would definitely recommend it. It has a movie and 4D theater. The first guided tour was at 10:10, and we wanted to leave by then so we didn't get to go. In the museum there's the biggest sample of the meteor, which is heavier than a horse 🐎!
Miranda Schleifer — Google review
Pricy but honestly worth it. Museum is nice and they really did the best you could do with an attraction like this one. Crater is awesome. Really nice thing to see.
Aleksandra Ciprijanovic — Google review
Holy Mackerel - super sized impact crater with exposed strata layers.
Museum has a military discount!!! ( YEAH!!!)
Great overview of the crater, the environment at the time, etc
If you are here- its certainly worth the visit
pts pts — Google review
55,000 years ago a 150 ft meteorite struck the earth at 26,000 miles per hour. The crater diameter is 1 mile. There is an excellent visitors center with displays, a movie, a 4D theatre, guided tour, and a few viewing decks. Great place to visit.
Justin Wong — Google review
We stopped here on our way from Albuquerque to Flagstaff. Great road trip detour.
The meteor crater itself is very cool. The scale of it is quite impressive. It was fun to walk around the rim and get some pictures. It's a must-do for space nerds like me.
There's also a small museum that you need to walk through to access the crater. I think admission to the crater and museum was $25/person, which is a little expensive for a 30-60 minute stop.
Dogs aren't allowed, so we left ours in the car. It was January so we weren't worried about the heat. They do have a basic kennel available.
Chris Fernandez — Google review
Awesome side trip to the best preserved meteor crater in the world! Beautiful information center. Great viewing areas. The movie about the origin and history of the meteor and crater was good. Many interactive displays, too. Walking tours are also available, weather permitting (not too windy). 4D ride available (I did not try this).
John Bunce — Google review
The rim tour is 45 minutes, which is dedicated, so no leaving early.
The entrance is free to the military and then is $25 per person. Has multiple levels to view the crater from and an interactive museum to experience the phenomenon.
Cafe on site as well. Lots of parking. Accessible walkways for most ability groups
GRAMS — Google review
It's such a sweet spot!! It was way bigger than I thought it was going to be!! They have guided tours and an awesome gift shop. Don't miss this attraction on your next road trip!
Ted — Google review
I've always wanted to come here but never had the chance. I can take this off my bucket list now. It has a nice coffee shop and souvenir shop too 😁
Jeff Tovar — Google review
We really enjoyed this cool stop. Close to the interstate and definitely worth the few minutes to get there. Friendly staff. Clean restrooms. Great gift shop
SJ Floyd — Google review
This is a once in a lifetime place to stop. The way the rim is lifted up, you can almost imagine the magnitude of the explosion upon impact. There is a tour included in your ticket price which takes you along the rim.
Lemmie Klein — Google review
Privately owned tourist attraction seems a bit weird in the mid desert, expecting a state park experience. Good explanatory museum, a bit of hiking around the rim available. The 4d ride is an experience for the kids, limited information on the Crater, but goofy fun. One price admission is nice.
Dave Stewart — Google review
An excellent opportunity to witness firsthand the destructive power of encounters with cosmic objects. This place transports the imagination to distant galaxies, leaving behind a sense of awe in the face of the vastness of the universe. It will be fascinating for anyone interested in space. The ticket price includes a film screening about crater formation and a guided tour.
Konstantin Smirnov — Google review
One of the best stop me made on the trip. Great for those interested in science and geology. Unfortunately the 70mph winds prevented us from going on the outside tour but the guide gave the same talk inside. We were able to take pictures from the lower viewing platform but the 70mph winds made that exciting. Overall a great place to visit
joe mallozzi — Google review
It's very cool to see the crater, and the guided tour gives you an exclusive better view of it from a tour-only pathway.
It was more expensive than we had expected, definitely a bit of sticker shock on that one.
Friendly staff and a short but interesting museum portion.
Veronica Seddon — Google review
Went to the recommendation of a friend. View a space where a meteor created a hole the size of a baseball stadium 🏟. Has an informational movie and tours available, or simply hike up and view the site. A gift store is on site. Parking is free, but tickets are required. Senior discounts available.
Michael Ellison — Google review
This place was great! My son is very interested in space and natural wonders so he has been asking to visit since we moved to Arizona. I didn't think I'd be impressed with a hole in the ground, but it was awe-inspiring. I loved how there were so many ways to view the crater and the surrounding views. But the museum is what really made this trip worthwhile to me. So many interesting exhibits and lots of hands-on activities. The gift shop was very nice also. I think the price is fair considering how much there is to see and do. We spent about 3 hours here. And they give a nice discount for military and veterans.
April Yedinak — Google review
Do not miss Meteor Crater if you're in Arizona.
It is mind-blowingly amazing. If you have the slightest bit of interest in outer space, geology, photo-opportunities, science, or history.
It's privately owned, but they have done a lovely job with preservation and presentation. The guided tour was wonderful, but so was the access in just walking around and taking your time.
The museum was great and the 10 minute movie was interesting.
There were people, but it wasn't so crowded that you couldn't take your time and really try to get a sense of it.
What an amazing experience!
I would recommend that they improve food options.
There's plenty of free parking right out front.
Angela Devin — Google review
This is not a tourist trap. It's privately owned but well maintained. Nice museum and fun guided tour of the rim. Highly enjoyed driving out to see the crater and learning about impact craters before heading over to the Grand Canyon.
Wupatki National Monument is a protected area that offers self-guided tours and trails for visitors to view the ruins of five prehistoric pueblos. The site showcases the amazing building skills and culture of the indigenous people who lived there. It has been reconstructed to retain its historical significance, and efforts are made to preserve it as such. Visitors can enjoy a beautiful drive from Volcano, take in all sites in the National Monument Park, and respect ancient indigenous sites.
I love visiting historical sites so I thoroughly enjoyed this trip. Took the beautiful drive from the Volcano. Yes, some of the site was reconstructed a while ago but the site is beautiful and you get a sense for how amazing the building, and the culture that built it, was. I'm happy to see that there remains a focus to protect/preserve historically important sites and land.
Ryan Burnish — Google review
Very neat to see. Would definitely recommend stopping. Make sure to pick up a guide for the numbers. I did include the brochure photos. Fun little reptiles running around and I really liked learning what some of the plants were (they were labeled) and some beautiful flowers were blooming. The blowhole was blowing today and it felt GREAT!
Sharon Soligny — Google review
We absolutely loved our time here. We learned about the history of the area and the dwellings of the Puebloan people. The staff was so knowledgeable and very nice. Bathrooms in the visitor center were very clean. We went to all of the various locations throughout the park but loved the Wupatki Pueblo near the visitor center the best. There are picnic tables available to have lunch or snacks. There is a small gift shop inside the visitor center.
Donna Smith — Google review
Omg! Worth every minute of the drive all of the sites in the National Monument Park is worth seeing! Please don't forget to be respectful! This is an ancient indigenous site!
Oh BTW... the $25 you pay for the pass is good for 1 week so pass it on to friends or neighbors!
dani a — Google review
The family enjoyed a nice walk (approx 0.5 mile) around the national monument. We got to see many lizards, some trying to eat smaller ones, as well as enjoying the scenery at the monument. Using the trail guide we enjoyed learning about each of the numbered locations at the monument.
Dave Lein — Google review
This is a beautiful and inspiring place to visit. Reading about these people and thinking about how they lived and why they lived the way they did makes you think about the ease of our own lives.
You can view all of the ruins from a short walk from the visitor center or you can hike for about 10 to 15 minutes to get down to the lower bowl where they had their sporting events. It is well worth the hike.
There are other places to visit that are on the road to the visitor center so watch for them.
Lonny Ward — Google review
We there on Dec. 4. 2023 . This area my partner wanted to see back in April 2018. I am so glad we able to see this place . This such a great experience to see really pretty . If you are in the area you should check this out . On the say we there it about 1 of light left but we got some good pictures as the sun was setting .
Kam’s Travels — Google review
The park rangers were incredibly knowledgeable and kind. The ruins are well maintained. This National park is a treasure. Highly recommend it. Check out the blow hole!
Demetria Andrews — Google review
Whether you are coming from Page or the Grand Canyon do not miss this treasure right outside Flagstaff. This beautiful locale allows you to look at preserved Native American dwellings. Allow yourself a solid 2 hours to take this all in. Also don't miss Sunset Crater right next door.
Richard Grant — Google review
We had our senior annual pass, which was valid for this monument. According to a sign outside the visitor centre, it seems that if you’ve already paid for entry to Sunset Crater Volcano, you get entry here as well.
Interesting looking ruins. You park at the visitor centre and there is a short walk to the site. There are other pueblos, but they are spread out and you’ll have to drive.
Nicole Chu — Google review
Nice place where you can see up close some ancient pueblos. We have the 4th grader America the beautiful pass so we were able to get in for free and was definitely worth a quick visit. Not sure I'd pay for it. That said, if you're into history and this type of thing, it's a super cool place to check out. It's easy to access the pueblos even with kids
Moshe Segal — Google review
Very informative at visitors center. The drive though pare was very easy and beautiful. You are able to view a lot with out strenuous walk.
Matthew Barbee — Google review
Another beautiful ancient site in Arizona. Love this history and seeing how indigenous people lived. Very nice visitor center and well kept national park site. The drive to the site takes you through volcanic grass lands. Arizona has many different faces. Don’t miss it.
Brian Decker — Google review
Absolutely amazing place. Highly recommend. Easy walks and small hikes to view ruins. Views are incredible.
Alanna Piercy — Google review
Wupatki National Monument is a captivating site that offers a glimpse into the ancient world. Although many of the ruins have been rebuilt, the historical and cultural significance is still evident. The scenic drive and periodic stops provide stunning views of the Pueblo ruins, and it's a great addition to a visit to Sunset Crater National Monument. The well-paved paths, informative guides, and well-maintained trails make navigation easy. The clean facilities, friendly staff, and the opportunity to explore multiple ruins make it a worthwhile visit. Combine it with Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument for an unforgettable journey.
Walnut Canyon National Monument is a vast, sprawling canyon and national park located in the East Valley of Arizona. The park preserves ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings, as well as other artifacts from the surrounding area. There are several trails around the monument that allow visitors to explore its many nooks and crannies.
My wife and I found this monument to be very beautiful. Stunning views but even more impactful were the cliff dwellings. Such a resourceful and innovative people to have constructed these dwellings into the cliffs. The really enjoyed the trails. I am in great shape. If you are not, definitely make sure that you bring water and a snack as well as take your time. There are a decent amount of steps on the island trail and many were winded going back up it seemed.
Ryan Burnish — Google review
They make it very easy to get around and look at the Hopi dwellings on the sides of the cliffs. Stairs with handrails and set trails. I took the 1 mile trail with 736 stairs but there are several benches along the way if you need to take it slow and catch your breath. Beautiful views. $25 to park just for a heads up unless you have a National Park pass.
Crystal White — Google review
We couldn't believe we stumbled across this place! We heard about this fantastic National Monument from some other travellers we met on our way.
We made the effort to visit not fully knowing what to expect. And boy are we glad we did it. We have 2 children under 10 who learnt so much from the walk into the canyon and from the Rangers who took the time out of their day to talk to and share some info with us and the kids. They were so good with the kids and they enjoyed doing the Junior Ranger activities.
The walk itself wasn't hard at all. Lots of steps but if you have a reasonable fitness level it will be a breeze.
One place that is truly magnificent and shouldn't be missed!
Thanks to the staff here who were wonderful! Made our visit from Australia that little bit more memorable 🇦🇺
Phil Rettke — Google review
This is a really extraordinary monument. Not only can you learn about how the ancient people of this region lived, you can also enjoy the beauty of Walnut Canyon. I highly recommend the island trail. It is .9 of a mile and has 185 steps. Although the sun is strong and temperatures high, there’s a nice cooling breeze coming up from the floor of the canyon to help cool your ascent. The rim trail is interesting, but not nearly as dramatic and a fraction of the work of thr Island trail. The visitor center offers helpful orientation and the staff is super friendly.
LS Sheldon — Google review
Great spot to get all the information you need for the park visit. We got our magnets from here. Kids got their junior ranger book and badge. The rangers are very helpful and knowledgeable. Do check the hours before you visit.
Sritama Chakraborty — Google review
Great hike and good information all along the trail. The longer trail has bench to rest for those who want to catch a breath or view! Park rangers are around to give more info and answer any query that one might have. Enough parking place, picnic benches, clean bathrooms.
Highly recommend for those who want to spend a day not too far from Flagstaff! Or maybe a stop on way ..
Amita Hegde — Google review
We enjoyed this stop. They have a nice picnic area and clean bathrooms. On the rim trail you can see some ruins. Part of the trail was closed but still enjoyable. We didn't go below the rim to see the cliff dwellings since my husband wears a brace and the 273 steps down were too hard on him. Staff was very helpful and very nice.
Donna Smith — Google review
One of the best National Monuments we have been to. We did the longer hike and it was so worth it. The pathway is paved with lots of stairs but if you bring good shoes, take your time and drink lots of water this is an amazing hike with beautiful sites. So much history here and it is so interesting.
Brianna H — Google review
Absolutely loved this easy walk around these ancient dwellings, gorgeous landscape views of you are not afraid of heights. Highly recommended!!
Mike J. Mitchell — Google review
This is a very interesting national monument. The visitor center is one of the best ones I have seen because it is set on a piece of land overlooking the canyon making it very beautiful. There are big giant windows that allow you to look at the canyon from the inside. The hike is very interesting because it is a cliffside hike that lets you walk in to various rooms that situate on the cliff. The trail I would think is only half of the overall canyon because it goes back to the visitor center before we finish the whole canyon. The rest of the canyon cannot be walked on because I think they try to preserve it.
Kevin — Google review
Great visit fun hike! Two levels of hikes one with lots of stairs and another on the rim. Perfect choices for our party.
Elizabeth K — Google review
Great place to hike/walk paved trails. Very close to Flagstaff. The Sinagua Indian ruins are cool too. Lots of cool plants that are labeled so you know what you're looking at. The entrance fee of $25 per car is pretty steep considering what you see at other parks but it's nice. Definitely buy one of the US national park passes if you're also going to the grand canyon. Probably should have thought about it but just wanted to take pics in the snow.
*Scott* — Google review
We really liked this place.... The docents are friendly and knowledgeable... Well laid out trails with hand railings and uniform steps. Of course trip down was easier than coming up but not a killer trail for this 65 year old. The canyon is very scenic and seeing the cliff dwellings made sleeping in my comfy bed that night even better!
James L — Google review
This place blew away my expectations. Simply awesome. The hike down is about 250 stairs or so if I remember correctly. So it’s a bit strenuous. But 100% worth the effort. The canyon itself is gorgeous and you can see the walls are ringed by countless ruins. This must have been an impressive settlement in its heyday.
Andrew Barch — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place to visit! There is one that is very simple and high above that we visited with our dog. The Island Trail doesn’t allow pets. It is strenuous because there are so many stairs, but it was beautiful. I am so grateful I could manage to do it. Breathtaking views of the canyon and views of the dwellings in the cliffs!
Kyle Fields — Google review
Beautiful park, amazing Hopi settlements/cave dwellings. 546 steps round trip, pretty easy, but take water. Spectacular views and lovely park employees. Park pass is $25 but buy a year-long one for use at many parks.
Karen Gale — Google review
This is a really cool site inside the canyon where you can see the remains of ancient cliff dwellings. There's a nice exhibit at the Visitor Center which tells the history of the location, which was inhabited by the Sinagua people (ancestors of the Hopi) about 1,000 years ago. There are two short, well maintained trails which take you around the site. There is plenty of signage to help tell the story of the canyon. Entry is $25 per vehicle, but is included in the annual "America the Beautiful" national parks and federal recreation lands pass.
Joel Keralis — Google review
This is an amazing park where you walk down several hundred steps to visit ancient settlements or cave dwellings. Be sure to take water with you. Walkways and steps are well maintained but can be difficult for some. I would not recommend very small children or elderly to take this hike. Park staff was all very friendly and helpful and willing to teach you what you want to know about the dwellings.
rich65k — Google review
Beautiful Island walked into history to see how native people lived in the cliff side. Island tour is a steep one mile loop walk that is paved as an easy hike but NOT all ability.
Beautiful scenery with great geological exposure
GRAMS — Google review
This was our first park of the 3 Flagstaff NPS stops. Google maps stopped a bit short, but we just followed the signs to the park.
We came after it snowed, so the one of the main trails was closed. Made sense as it was the one that took you on the cliff edge. You can see them in my photos and also some of the stairs across the canyon. They had some other historic locations to see on the path outside the Visitor Center. Beautiful scenery for sure with the snow.
We have to come back again when it is warmer so we can take the other trail.
Daniel Grove — Google review
The canyon named after the flourish black walnut trees in the canyon.
Native American lived on the cliffs for 130 years. It is a short drive from Flagstaff and worthwhile visiting.
pc chen — Google review
Unbelievable history to learn about here! The sights are beautiful and inspiring. There are many places to catch your breath on the way back up - don't be intimidated by stairs, it's well worth it. The visitor center has a really interesting video to tell of some of the history and a great view where you can experience the sights without going down to the island. There are signs all over explaining the history of the people who once lived there. There is another hike around the rim, too. Both paved, wear sneakers. The park rangers there are awesome and full of knowledge to share.
Erica Oseff — Google review
An absolutely beautiful location. The trail into the Canyon was closed but the trail along the Rim was open. Staff were friendly and kind.
Robert Wheeler — Google review
Very interesting cliff dwellings in a beautiful canyon.
MANY, MANY steps to go down into the canyon and back out. The whole path is concrete or bricks, with MANY steps throughout, so hiking sticks are pretty useless.
Note that you can see a few of the cliff dwellings without going down many, if any, steps, but by going down the whole path you get to see many more and go into several of them.
Nice 30 minute movie at the visitors center.
Doug Piette — Google review
Great spot to see some of the historical dwellings in the region, built in the canyon where the rocks have been undercut by water, forming a natural ceiling.
The visitor center is small, but the 20 minute film is good and the rangers are helpful.
There are 2 trails from the visitor center, a 1 mile trail that drops into the canyon where you are right next to the dwellings (Island trail), and a shorter trail that stays on the rim. The island trail has excellent interpretive signs about the history, geology, and plants.
Ethan Lindstrom — Google review
This was a very cool experience! I rarely rate things 5 stars but this was worth it. Note, the walk around the island was long and there's no external railing, which can be scary for people scared of heights. It is also a long climb out, so bring water and take your time. But totally worth the trek if you're physically able.
Mary McDarby-Rios — Google review
Excellent park with paved trails - very accessible. We didn’t have time to climb down on this trip, but you can really see the dwellings up close! It’s amazing. Plenty of parking, clean restrooms. Nice visitor center with knowledgeable people.
Tatiana Hoover — Google review
First time we came here and wow! The views and the park rangers are amazing! Bring lots of water and appreciate shoes (for stairs and hiking)
Sunset Crater, an extinct cinder cone towering at 8,042 feet, boasts a one-mile loop trail offering views of ancient lava flows. The volcano erupted around AD 1064 spewing ash across an area of approximately 800 square miles and generating the Kana-A lava flow that forced farmers to abandon lands previously cultivated for four centuries.
We were there on Dec. 4.2023. We had Ben hear back on April 2018. We found this place simply awesome . Seeing the lava flows. Around and the nice walk ways around the Crater part is really nice also have nice trials to walk on to . There where area when come in to park you can pull off and get a good Picture of the Sunset Crater . And the Mountains behind you when there they had snow on them . It was really pretty to see.
Kam’s Travels — Google review
This is an interesting area if you take the walk through the lava flow. Other than that, there isn't much to recommend it. It's worth a visit but isn't a "must do." I'm not sure why it's called a crater. It's actually a volcano.
Dave Shultz — Google review
I found this volcano by accident heading north of Flagstaff, AZ. I went to explore it and it's really amazing to see a volcano from 1,000 years ago. Everything looks as if it's recent.
Ian N. — Google review
Very cool to see plant life growing in the lava remains
Ken Burrell — Google review
Lava flow is an interesting trail, easy to go with the family.
Jeslizabeth Aumaitre — Google review
Nice to see the lava fields. You can hike up to the top of the volcano and see the crater, bring water, it's a long treak. The visitor center has great people to help you with information.
Elizabeth Gerhard — Google review
Sunset Crater Volcano is just twelve miles north of Flagstaff, Arizona on U.S. 89. I initially passed by and noticed it as I was returning to Flagstaff from Page. I had no idea that there were volcanoes in the southwestern United States until I arrived in Flagstaff. I noticed cinder cones as I arrived at my hotel off I-40 on the north end of Flagstaff.
On my last day in Flagstaff, September 30 2021, I headed up the road to see Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. It is part of the U.S. National Park system so if you have an annual pass, it will not cost anything more otherwise there is an entrance fee is $25. There is a visitor center with restroom and gift shop.
There are multiple trails to walk so I recommend looking at the website for this monument prior to going. One can drive through and see quite a bit but I recommend parking and getting out for a short hike. The really nice thing is that the Lava Flow Trail has an area that is handicapped accessible with an actual sidewalk. On this sidewalk trail, one can actually get great views of some of the cinder cones and lava fields. There are real trails off the paved area.
Within the park, the Lenox Crater Trail appears to be the longest marked trail. A longer trail, O’Leary Trail, actually starts outside the park and passes through the northwest corner of the park and up to O’Leary Peak. This trail is about 9.6 miles, according to my research, and O’Leary Peak is an actual lava dome volcano, not a cinder cone. Anyway, the sidewalk-ed area has benches to sit and enjoy the views, peace and quiet. After my hike, I sat and just enjoyed the views for about an hour.
I think that it was worth it and if I lived in the Flagstaff area, this is possibly a place that I would visit often. One thing to remember – though this is Arizona, there is actually winter in this part of Arizona as Flagstaff’s elevation is actually almost 7000 feet above sea level, that 1600 feet higher than the ‘Mile High City of Denver’. If you find yourself in Flagstaff and have at least a couple of hours, I recommend Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.
Wendell Jones — Google review
Been here twice and the second time was just as amazing as the first. It is the remanents of a 1,000 year old eruption. You can see spots where the lava flow stopped. You can touch the sharp 1,000 year old lava flow. You get to see the slow return of nature. It is well worth the stop and although we didn't stop at the ruins up the road this time, that is also well worth the drive.
Kevin Werner — Google review
“The Cinders” as its known is a wonderful place for quads, dirt bikes Razors and such. Everything from flat land to challenging hills and spectacular views.
Tom Cross — Google review
Must visit! There were once 29 active volcanoes in this section. If you are a science buff and are intrigued with volcanoes this is the place to visit! The dark black igneous rock that remains there is fascinating to look at and to walk through. When we went, it was April but it was freezing cold. I was happy to withstand the weather for all of the natural wonders surrounding me.
Shruti Sanghavi — Google review
We lived in Flagstaff and found this park to be our favorite. Everybody just drives the road and parks at the turnouts for a quick view. Get out and walk on the ash looking for spring flowers. You can't climb the peak but there is still a lot of space to explore. Don't forget the nearby Wupatki Monument while you are there. Winter is cold but magical.
David Weber — Google review
This was my second visit and there was snow covering part of the landscape & it was still pretty awesome. I really like the long loop trail as you tend to get a better feel for the beauty and intent of the landscape.
The Lowell Observatory, located in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a working research center that houses the Discovery Channels telescope. The observatory was founded in 1894 by Percival Lowell and is famous for the first sighting of Pluto. The observatory has on-site telescopes including the famed 1896 Clark Telescope which helped to spur accepted theory for an expanding universe. Visitors can stargaze through the telescopes weather permitting.
Wow! What an amazing experience to learn about astronomy and view the solar system through their incredible telescopes. We attended 3 of the programs throughout the day - all excellent, and led by knowledgeable staff who are passionate about their job. Staff were all friendly and helpful. What a treat that we were privileged to use the famous 32 foot Clark Refractor once it got dark. The outdoor viewing deck was awesome! We had so much fun learning, seeing, and exploring the grounds. Must do for any age!
klmullet — Google review
This is one of my favorite places on planet earth. I recommend going an hour before sunset and staying until they close at night. The Flagstaff sky is unreal and I could not stop staring into the sky full of stars. Such kind and smart people work there. The location is easy to get to, only a five minute drive from downtown. Plenty of parking but it does get full so beware! There are stairs and ramps for accessibility. The gift shop is awesome. I’m in love with this place and I want to come back during every season. You will learn so much and see so much amazing history. It’s amazing that you can step into the observatory that discovered Pluto! So worth it.
Selena Quintanilla — Google review
As a historic site marking the location Pluto was discovered, Lowell Observatory is a really unique place to visit if you're a star or space lover. I visited late in the night so that I could catch a glimpse of the stars through the telescopes. The night that I visited, Flagstaff was expected to receive some snow. The weather affects whether the telescopes will be on view or not, so I called the observatory ahead of time to make sure the telescopes would be out. The staff were super helpful and kind, and confirmed all of the information that I needed.
Lowell Observatory felt a lot smaller than I had anticipated, however, this place does have a lot of charm. I enjoyed visiting the Rotunda Museum to learn more about Pluto, and the gift shop also had a nice selection of items. I also viewed a short 25-minute movie about solar eclipses in the Steele Visitor Center.
The only thing that tarnished my experience was the long line to view the telescopes. The lines were very long since the telescopes opened late due to the inclement weather. Of course this is something that the observatory cannot control, but I would say to anyone visiting Flagstaff during the colder months to be prepared! Standing in the cold for 45 minutes to view through a telescope felt somewhat disorganized, especially since each telescope had their own line so we only got to see through one of them. It might be best to purchase tickets the day you plan visiting to make sure the weather conditions are ideal for telescope viewing. Likewise, if you're going during the colder months bring a jacket and a hat in case you have to wait in line.
Overall though, the observatory is a really unique place; if you're into this sort of stuff it's worth checking out!
P.S. - The purple star photo was taken on a Google Pixel during a long exposure shot which captures everything in the sky, even th things you do not see.
Jasmine Singh — Google review
Loved the experienced. Solar flares viewing was terrific. Unfortunately, all the planets and the Milky Way were below the horizon, so the night viewing was not as fun as I expected but still a very unique experience. I wish they selected something other than a star or star clusters for viewing, but I understand that the choice might have been limited given the location of more fun viewing objects…. A tour that takes you to see the 125-year old Clark Refractor is a must. Unless you come in August or September, don’t expect to see fun things at night through the telescopes. You may just see a lot of white stars or star clusters that don’t look much different from what you see in the sky, so adjust your expectations.
Anna West — Google review
This Observatory is Amazing! If your in Flagstaff it's a must see! All day passes are $25 or you can get a membership for $50 which is good for a whole year and if you want to make it a dual membership it's only $65! They have a Family membership as well, but I don't remember the cost of that one. They have multiple telescopes to see. One telescope was built in the late1800's and another was built in 1928 and was the telescope that discovered Pluto! They also have 6 new telescopes that were built in 2019 that they view stars and planets with and they allow you to look through the telescopes eyepiece and are currently building additional attractions. They also have a list that shows a breakdown of the prices of the 6 telescopes and their mounting. The employees are full of knowledge and are extremely friendly. If you are a local or a tourist in Flagstaff I highly recommend this place, you won't regret it!
Daniel Labedz — Google review
Kid and parent approved! We arrived at about 7 pm, saw the telescope that discovered Pluto, went to the telescope out on the patio area and checked each one out, then listened to a presentation at the visitors center and the had one of the bigger telescope open that isn’t usually so we lined up to look through it. Finally we went to listen to the constellation presentation and the adults were enjoying it but the kids were just too tired so we left at 9:20. We really had a great time and learned a lot!
Kristin Adams — Google review
I would strongly encourage visiting. There are some museums and lectures, but the best part is seeing the telescopes. If you have flexibility, try and coordinate with clear weather. If the moon is out, you will get some spectacular views. If the moon is not out, you'll be able to see a lot of other things that a bright moon might make more difficult to see. We got to see Saturn with one of the telescopes, which was pretty amazing.
I'm not sure how badly I would want to return unless you really wanted to see other things in the sky under different conditions, but if you have never been here, I would very strongly encourage you to visit at least once.
Benjamin Altose — Google review
Neat place if you are into astronomy. They have lots of telescopes. So at night is especially cool. Saw the moon close up, Saturn, Neptune & Jupiter. Also, from the top of the hill you get a great view of the city of Flagstaff below.
John Graham — Google review
I can spend hours upon hours at this place. There is so much to see and learn about. The tours are very informative and not too lengthy. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. I recommend going when they first open to do the tours, then grab an early dinner to make it back for the evening Telescope viewing of the stars and planets. Your admission sticker is good all day, so you are able to leave the premises and then come back.
Cory Borghi — Google review
An interesting morning, the highlight of which was looking at the Sun through a telescope. Yes it was safe and so cool to see the black spots and solar prominences. It was also interesting to see the old telescopes and hear the history of discovering Pluto, etc. Our tour guide was nice but needs to hone her public speaking skills. I couldn't do the evening program but it sounded pretty awesome to view the skies through their several newer telescopes. Also a shout out to the guy at the desk (sorry, didn't catch you name but it was the morning of 4/27). He described things well and with enthusiasm having to say the same thing over and over again. The several kids there seemed to be enjoying it as well.
Don Black — Google review
What an amazing visit to the Observatory. I’d recommend spending there at least 2hrs to be able to cover all key exhibitions and buildings. It was great to be able to look through their amazing telescope and feel like an explorer searching for new stars. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable.
Micha? Niezgoda — Google review
Wow, it's been 25 years since I was last here, not sure why as I'm in Flag frequently enough. When I was last here it was just the visitor center and a guided tour to one telescope. Now there's a whole complex you can browse at your leisure. My daughter is fascinated with Space and was super excited to come here. It's absolutely amazing. There are multiple telescopes for you to look through (weather permiting) and the folks that operate them will show you many amazing things. She had a blast. They have stools to help kids (and short folk like myself) see through the lenses. We were there for 4 hours and had a great time. Still magical all these years later.
Jaimie Cassandra — Google review
There is a lot more stuff than I expected. I would love to come here again at an earlier time since I came at a later time and some stuff was closed off. But it was great to explore and loved the little gift shop. A lot of the staff were nice and well mannered. At one of the digital telescopes they pointed it towards Pluto but since it's so far you need a lot more pictures over time to see which dot moved compared to the stars in the background.
Novazo — Google review
This is more a scientific campus with mostly passive education thru scheduled walking tours and videos, but I think the new interactive public education center opening up in November 2024 will really enhance the experience. It was cool to see up close the huge telescopes used in milestone discoveries (Planet X, err Pluto, anyone?) and the actual sun thru the sun telescope (red circle with black dots that are sun spots).
Mimi Snook — Google review
Definitely worth a visit to if you are in Flagstaff. It is a very interesting place and I learned the observatory played a key role in discovering the former planet (now dwarf planet) Pluto. The Clark telescope is here and there are many other cool exhibits to check out here.
Kiet TT — Google review
Absolutely incredible. We came during the afternoon and checked out some of the exhibits. We were able to look at the Sun from one of their telescopes and learn about the history a Pluto and exactly how old was discovered. We then came back in the evening time, and that's when the observatory really shined. We were able to see jupiter, beetlejuice, the moon and multiple star clusters in pretty stunning detail. We were also able to look through the Clark telescope to check out a pretty distant star cluster. They also had a really cool constellation tour world guide would point out the constellations with a laser pointer empire explaining how the constellations got their names. Overall, this was one of the highlights of our trip.
Daniel Pievsky — Google review
A visit to Lowell Observatory is truly an exploration of both the cosmos and the unique earthly environment it resides in. Situated at a high elevation, the observatory offers a breathtaking view of the celestial wonders above. The clear night skies at this altitude provide an unparalleled canvas for stargazing, making it a haven for astronomy enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. The observatory's commitment to public outreach and education is evident through its engaging programs and knowledgeable staff, who passionately share the mysteries of the universe with visitors.
However, it's essential for prospective stargazers to be mindful of the practicalities of the location. The high elevation brings cooler temperatures, even on clear nights, and the weather can be quite cold. Therefore, I highly recommend packing warm layers of clothing to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Despite the chilly weather, Lowell Observatory's cosmic wonders and educational initiatives make it an exploration worth embracing, offering a unique blend of celestial marvels and earthly elements.
Les Jackson — Google review
I plan two hour here but kids like so much we end up stay a whole afternoon plus evening Very good place to visit for kids
Alex Jin — Google review
We really like the location, the science, the telescopes, and the story of discovering Pluto.
We went in the afternoon and came back ( tickets good for entire day) to star gaze. They had several telescopes aimed at various objects.
The Clark scope was on Saturn our night
And one can see the Milky Way
Richard Grumm — Google review
Very cool for you space nerds out there. Will try to make it back during the night to actually observe.
Enjoyed small presentation about solar eclipse that was coming up. Went on a free guided tour about Lowell his passion and wealth, the beautiful property during the fall and, the main telescope story and construction.
Disappointed that the newer observation building was not open and couldn't do any sun gazing. We were short on time with only 3hrs so had to cut things short. With everything available you could easily spend 5hr+ id imagine.
Arizona Snowbowl is a snow sports resort located on the mountainside, which offers comfortable accommodation in casual rooms and cabins. The resort provides free breakfast and Wi-Fi to its guests. The drive to the resort is beautiful; however, it can get congested during peak hours. New Year's weekends are particularly busy, with heavy traffic as early as 9 am. Due to a recent snowstorm, many visitors flock to the resort resulting in limited parking space by mid-morning.
We had fun snowboarding here with friends. Nice mountains view, the waiting line to get rental was not bad on the weekend.
The staff were so nice and helpful, they saved me from falling of lift, they were fun people!
It was snowing in the afternoon, very fun to snowboarding 🏂 down the hills with snow flying in the air.
Lilah Tay — Google review
Beautiful drive. The traffic piled up quickly. As early as 9am Sunday morning, New year weekend. Just finished a great snow storm a few days back. Cars were going 15mph. Slowly, but surely made it to parking. Was kind of far, but walkable. There's a lot of people by 9:30am! Suggest 7am arrival if u want a good parking spot. So the dinning area does this thing where u can order food with an app or scan a code. Pizza looks good, $25. Discounts offered to certain membership holder.
GiGi Fuentes — Google review
I’ve been wanting to ride Snowbowl since I first drove through Flagstaff when I was a Jr in college. 27 years later I finally did it, and it didn’t disappoint! The runs were well maintained, fun, and challenging. It wasn’t busy the day I went. The views are fantastic. The food prices were less expensive compared to places I ride on the East Coast. I’m definitely coming back next time I’m in AZ during the winter!
Benjamin De Point — Google review
We visited a couple of years ago and felt the process and facilities were better the first time. This time we did visit over a holiday week. To get to the Snowbowl & get your gear took at least two hours. The lift lines for the Aspen were insanely long yet they were still allowing single riders. Humphrey lift lines were long but moved a lot better. We ran out of time to check the other lifts. The slopes were good although with the fresh snow many were not groomed. The lockers and restrooms required long waits and it all felt pretty dirty.
I love Flagstaff and will return but will bring my own gear and get there early.
We did not have a four wheel drive vehicle so we had to take the shuttle up- it added anywhere from 1-2 hours due to waiting in lines. The return ride wait was very long. The actual shuttle ride was fine.
Make sure you rent a four wheel drive vehicle if visiting during snowy conditions.
Erin Hardwick — Google review
Played at Snowbowl to escape the Phoenix heat
Nana isn't used to being in AZ during the sweltering summers. So she and I took the kids on a day trip up to Flagstaff and Snowbowl. Phoenix was about 112° for the day and we dropped 30-40°at the top of Snowbowl!
After lunch in downtown Flagstaff we headed up the mountain to Snowbowl. All four of us rode the Gondola up ($18 each). It was a fun and relaxing 10 minute ride 2500 feet up. Nana and Rori sat at the top watching the gondola because you could definitely feel the extra effort in breathing at this elevation. Jace and I climbed an additional couple hundred feet up the steps for an amazing view. As the clouds cleared, we could almost see the Grand Canyon! The highlight for me may have been using the "highest toilet" in Arizona.
We rode the Gondola back down. Nana and I grabbed drinks at the bar and watched the kids play. We bought the kids each a 3-activity pass ($30 each). Activities to choose from are the tube slide, bungee trampoline and rock climbing wall. They each got 5 sides down the hill, 5 minutes on the trampoline and 5 attempts at the wall.
It was a fun day!
Check out more on Instagram @msbusyblonde
msbusyblonde — Google review
Nature at its best of beauty!!
Food- bring your own as the lines are long, food and drinks are expensive and they were out for chicken strips and nuggets by noon . Fries came after 50 mins, that kind of busy on top.
We paid $$$ for the gondola for scenic view and it was one round up and back, you cannot get down to take photo’s, and it starts at 1pm for scenic view, you CANNOT board it before. Others could ride it , who were going up for activity. Poor directions , if you are going for first time.Parking was plenty with multiple lots.
You cannot beat the mountain beauty though!!! Must go!
Minnah Shergill — Google review
Not bad considering there’s no where else to ski within 300+ miles! But, customer service is non-existent. I almost bought a lift ticket for my birthday for $54, but ended up paying $72. Snowbowl used to offer free lift tickets on your birthday, so I called them to confirm. A recorded message said to email them, so I did. It took them 5 days to respond, during which the lift ticket prices went up. The staff/attendants on site were great, but given the poor customer service, I likely will not be buying another ticket anytime soon :(.
Nate See — Google review
Had a super awesome time here. Took our kids teenager and college student. Dad and 16 year old son went for a day of snowboarding. Mom and 20 year old daughter took the snowboarding class. Check in and check out of rentals was a super easy and quick process. The staff is positive and encouraging. The food and bar area was fast and convenient. You can order from a kiosk or off an app on your phone. Thank you for a great day!!
theholycannoli — Google review
We had a very good time despite going on weekends ( sunday). The staff was very welcoming and seemed to try their best when servicing clients. Couple of things to keep in mind if that’s your first time going (was ours)
1. arrive before 8am. We arrived at 7:40am and there were plenty of parking close to the rental lodge. Rentals open at 7:30 so we were in and out of there in no time because there weren’t a lot of customers that early.
2. Buy tickets a month in advance, we got our lift ticket for $70/each, there were some for $30 but we just wanted to secure this specific day. We checked the $ a day of and it was already $200+ ( so plan accordingly and save your bucks )
3. Bring your own water/snacks/food and just store in a locker ($10/day) and save $$$ on the food they offer at the lodge
4. If it’s the first time skiing go straight to little spruce - no lines at all and you will have almost an empty area to yourself.
5. Check the weather on their website the day of we planned to take a bunch of layers but it turned out to be relatively warm ( skied only in long sleeve t-shirt and light rain jacket.
Hope this helps
Anna M. — Google review
We came in the summer for the gondola, and kid’s activities. Shout out to Abby at the bungee jump. She was outstanding with every kid no matter what age. She’s an asset to this place. We enjoyed the tube slide too!
Suzanne Sheppard — Google review
Come ski the mountain with the highest peaks in AZ. Kid lift tickets are free, too!! We had such a great time snowboarding. Fresh powder and friendly staff. Make sure to get snow chains or your 4x4 before making the trek. Also, their rental gear is of great quality and a pain-free experience. I'm definitely going to return next season
Ryan Of San Tan Valley — Google review
Our instructor Adam was the best!
This was my first skiing experience so naturally I was very nervous, but Adam explained everything in a very engaging and understandable way. He is nice, supportive, and very experienced!
I am now in love with the sport cannot imagine if it was someone else as my first instructor. THANK YOU SO MUCH, ADAM!
P.s Everyone working there is also super nice. It’s such a friendly place.
Belinda Wang — Google review
As a first-timer here, I was impressed at the beauty of Aspen Trail Loop. There was plenty of parking, friendly staff at the trailhead and plenty of signage along the trail. The hike was absolutely gorgeous! I would definitely go back just for that.
We also opted to take a ride on the gondola to the top of the mountain. Picturesque views, wildlife and additional hiking at the top (if you're up for it). It was 36° at the top and the elevation of 11,500 feet kicked our butts, and we were still damp from our earlier hike. So we didn't last long at the top, but it was totally worth it.
At the Base, we had some delicious hot cocoa, listened to some live music, and hung out for a few before heading home.
I would absolutely recommend taking the time to visit this fun and beautiful location!
Heather Cserpnyak — Google review
Such a beautiful experience riding up the gondola. The scenic view is breath taking. We would definitely recommend going earlier in the morning, we rode up to the top and stayed a while by the time we came down it was so busy, they had a long line to get on the gondola especially on the weekends. There are also beautiful hiking trails near by like the Aspen trail we visited, this is a must do if you are in the area! It's just so beautiful! 😊
Rabia D — Google review
Love this place, my eight year old rode here twice this year and ended up in the trees after recent snow storms this week. Came from Wisconsin for your snow and hill.
Bonnie Leggo — Google review
This place was awesome. The ticketing process was easy, and the ski, boot, helmet, and locker rental was very convenient. Instructors were nice, patient and encouraging. Loved our visit.
Steven & Tracey Jiles — Google review
An awesome experience standing at 11,500 feet. The weather was perfect, sunny, with no clouds. The temperature up in the mountain was 31 degrees but it felt like it was 60 degrees. Everyone was so friendly and helpful.
Klaudia Zamarron — Google review
Only a two and a half hour drive from Scottsdale. Lots of fun runs and not typically super packed. Only gripe is that gondola is closed when it is even slightly windy.
AZ-179, also known as the Red Rock Scenic Byway, is a breathtaking drive that winds through Arizona's stunning red rock country. The 7.5-mile stretch offers panoramic views of the iconic red rock formations and lush greenery of Oak Creek Canyon. Travelers can stop at numerous vista points to take in the awe-inspiring scenery and capture memorable photos. The byway is also lined with hiking trails for those looking to explore the natural beauty up close.
Bell Rock is a famous butte with a round-trip hiking trail spanning 3.5 miles, showcasing upland desert scenery. It is well-known for its bell-like shape and offers picturesque views during sunset. The Sedona area also boasts of other popular hikes such as the West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon and the Airport Mesa Trail which offers stunning views, especially in the afternoon. Another favorite among hikers is a scrambling trail that offers pretty views but requires an early start to avoid crowds.
My favorite hike in the Sedona area. Really more of a scramble but such pretty views and fun scrambling. Need to be at the trailhead before 8 to have a shot.
Andrew Barch — Google review
One of the most picturesque places you'll ever visit. It's an easy hike, but even if you take the difficult paths, you won't feel it because of how much more beautiful each extra step makes the place look
Branko Miskovic — Google review
First. Don’t try to park at the trailhead, park at yavapi parking lot across the street.
There are only about 25 or so spots at the trailhead.
This is an easy hike and you can sit for hours on this vortex filled rock. Incredible.
We walked on the trail around the entire area, about 5 miles. The loop walk is a must.
Jon Webb — Google review
Dreamy place for beginners to hike.
Red rocks always look so unique.
Great place to enjoy the sunset.
The vegetation are so “ desert”.
xun wang — Google review
Went for a sunrise hike, it was incredible. Although it's mostly flat and rocky, there are some more moderate sections of the trail, and I was glad to have a trekking pole for these.
Carolyn R — Google review
Amazing! Went there yesterday, very cold windy day and enjoyed every minute. First time here and did not disappoint. Parked in the South parking lot and went on the 'Bell Rock Path' to do the climb. My suggestion is (if you plan the same and it's your first time there) to not stop at the first signage you come across. Continue past the first signage on the Bell Rock Path trail, not much further, and you'll come up to a better route of going up. Way easier and actually has trail signs the whole way to follow. Showed a picture of the sign you're looking for. As stated, came from the South parking area and my first time here... spectacular!
Gretchen Gillette — Google review
I really enjoyed this place, because you can climb the rocks almost anywhere, so it was fun.
David Hor?k — Google review
Such a nice place, i liked the front view more. The rock beside the bell rock is pretty too.
Tonni Das Jui — Google review
You can climb Bell rock while feeling the Voltex. Climbing shoes that give you good grip will make the climb easier. I was scared at the lower levels, but the higher I went, the easier it became. And I realized the importance of climbing shoes. The views are breathtaking, the place is phenomenal and fantastic.
In the parking lot, unless you come early in the morning, you have to wait until someone leaves there. I waited about 20 minutes.
Kate “Clover” K — Google review
The first of our red rock experience and we had a great time. The hike is easy up with some rock scrambling up, but very doable. Parking can be tricky…. Small lot, but after a few minutes a spot opened up. We spent about 90 minutes here and enjoyed the views.
RidesnVibes_ — Google review
Beautiful hike in the morning. This is an easy hike and suitable for kids and dogs. I took a 10 min walk from Bell Rock Inn to the trailhead and didn’t need to pay for the $5 parking fee. The paths are somewhat marked but a bit confusing. I ended up checking from Google maps where I was and where the trail was. There were trails for bikers so maybe those were marked for them. If I had had more time I would have done the Courthouse Loop trail. Instead I turned back after 1.5 miles.
Tiina — Google review
Short hike. Around 0.8 mile, but it can be dangerous if you slip . $5 for a-day pass or $15 for a-week pass
Jenny — Google review
Amazing and easy hiking, you can feel the vortex energy in the area. Mother Nature can be felt at the base of this beautiful butte. 🌄
Juan Pablo Urdaneta Quiñones — Google review
God did a great job on the natural beauty of this place. The trails are easy to walk on. If you are brave, you can climb up the rock up to the point that it goes straight up vertical, then you will need climbing gear and good skills.
Fred Birkett — Google review
Bell Rock is a popular natural landmark in Sedona that is definitely worth a visit. The stunning red rock formation is an iconic symbol of Sedona and is believed to have spiritual significance for many people. The trail leading up to Bell Rock is a moderately easy hike that offers breathtaking views of the stunning desert landscape. Visitors can take a leisurely hike or scramble up the rocks to reach the top of the formation, where they can appreciate the panoramic views of the surrounding area. Bell Rock is a must-see attraction that offers an unforgettable experience and is perfect for travelers seeking an adventure or a stunning backdrop to capture memorable photographs.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona, Arizona is a striking monument built into the side of the red rock buttes. The chapel is famous for its location atop these incredibly scenic rocks and for its incredible views of Sedonas Redrock Valley. The church is Catholic and inspired by Marguerite Brunswig Staude's love of New York City's iconic Empire State Building.
Great place to visit. If you’re religious it’s definitely a good place to practice it. The views from the Chapel are great. If you arrive before 10 am you’ll be able to enjoy it more. After this it’s very very busy. You can also go hiking directly from the parking lot. Beautiful place overall
Oliver Smith — Google review
This is a fascinating church! We parked at the bottom, in the first lot, which gave us a great view of the front of the church. There were 2 men in golf carts, giving rides to the top for tips, which were thankful for in the heat. The church itself is small, but beautiful, with amazing scenery surrounding it. I would love to return for a mass sometime. I would highly recommend this.
Lee Spoor — Google review
The chapel is wonderful. A little crowded but a lot of parking and staff with golf carts to help get people from the top to the bottom. There is a big turnaround at the end of the road so don't be afraid to drive all the way looking for a parking spot. Beautiful views of the surrounding landscape also. Definitely worth checking out.
Eric Songer — Google review
Beautiful, Catholic chapel with amazing views. It's a bit of a walk from the parking lot to the chapel, but totally worth it. They also have a surprisingly large gift shop beneath the chapel.
Mary McDarby-Rios — Google review
Spiritual place that evokes emotions as you step up to the door.
Stood in the footsteps under the gaze of Jesus. Can't explain how it felt.
The staff are wonderful, especially as they ate dealing with tourists who are just ticking the chapel off their "to visit" lists as well as those who want to experience a bit more.
The website stated to grab the first parking spot, but we found lots of empty ones further up the hill, however, we didn't mind as the climb gave us time to appreciate and photograph the surrounding mountains.
nicola stewart — Google review
Absolutely beautiful! There were a lot of people given that COVID is still an issue, so make sure to bring a mask.
There is a catholic gift shop in the church.
Might be a good idea to park outside of the entrance and walk up if you are going to hike Little Horse from here after going to see the church. especially if you are going a bit later so you don’t get locked in the gates after closing.
Adriana Covarrubias — Google review
Beautiful views surrounded by red mountains of rock.The chapel is a triumph of architecture in its simplicity and beauty building around the the perfect spots. I sense a feeling of holy and joy upon entering the church . I am not a Catholic but would still highly recommend fighting the crowds to see and experience the glory of the chapel. Outside is breath taking views filled with fresh air, i highly recommend packing extra water bottle or two and apply sun screen before visiting because the sun light can be a pretty hot.
Kousum Salyvann — Google review
I'm Catholic, and whenever I travel I love to find a church or chapel to pray and give thanks to the Lord for the beautiful gift of life. This chapel is so unique and it's nestled in a beautiful spot in the deep red rocks of the mountain. The cross on the outside is so perfectly placed within the side of the mountain. It's so amazing to see the gifts and talents that human beins are gifted with and how they use their gifts to glorify God!
Silvia Ponce — Google review
Very moving when you enter If you stand in footprints as they advise you will not be disappointed. Jesus will be looking at you it feels as he is truly their you must stop well worth it. Gift shop is basement is well worth a visit so many unique gifts. Be patient it's busy and we all know how that can go.
Matthew Barbee — Google review
The chapel itself is very nice from both the outside and inside, but the view of the valley is something else! Would definitely recommend going here.
NOTE: It’s free parking and the chapel entrance closes around 4:50PM, so make sure to come before then!
Waleed — Google review
While I’m an atheist I probably didn’t get as much out of this stop as others, but I will say it is definitely worthwhile. The views from the church are excellent, and the whole atmosphere was calming. I sat for a bit to take it all in and admire the architecture and how well it blended with nature.
We arrived around 8:30, and while the gates don’t open until 9, I’m pretty sure they opened early. There’s limited parking, but we were fortunate to get near the church and avoid some uphill walking. Definitely go early if you can!
This really is a must see location for anyone.
Dallas Urwin — Google review
Incredible views in every direction. The chapel is a triumph of architecture in its simplicity and beauty. Upon entering, a feeling of joy and serenity overcame me. I am not a Catholic but would still highly recommend fighting the crowds to see and experience the glory of the chapel.
Adam Friedmann — Google review
This chapel is breath taking! Perched high up, you can spot it from the highway as you drive into town, cut into the red rocks with its sleek yet simple architecture -it grabs your attention immediately.
There are a few different areas to park, starting from the gate under the chapel, then continuing all the way to the ramp to the chapel doors, with 6 handicap spaces right at the top.
It has a wonderful breeze that gently whips around you as you make your way up. When you get to the doors and they open -wow- the tree that Christ is situated on going to the highest point in the chapel is breathtaking!
The chapel is surprisingly rooming with many rows of seating, all which have terrific views of the simple but stunning chapel.
To the left are stairs that go down to a very well air-conditioned gift shop that has a wide variety of items (coins, postcards, ornaments, figurines, statues, jewelry, books, etc...so much more).
Maria C — Google review
Beautiful and (for some) meaningful space. Silence for meditation and/or prayers is appreciated by others in attendance. There is a long and rather steep ramp from the upper parking lot to the Chapel... parking can be tight, but most people keep their visits short so spots open up fairly regularly.
Karen Wiant — Google review
Must go place. The chapel is spectacular. Don’t forget to walk the trail. Easy hiking and so close to the red rock with amazing view!
Lan Burgess — Google review
This is beautiful outside and inside. It's clean, long ramp outside has spectacular views. There's also a gift shop inside downstairs which I didn't go to. This is entirely free but tight parking, narrow road leading up and down. Definitely worth visiting.
Cath Susla — Google review
It's a drive and a walk. The view outside and inside was amazing and inspiring. This is on a vortex, so..sometimes emotional blocks get released. I just recommend this as a bucket list item. For me, it was an experience that is worth sharing.
Jeff Gallamore — Google review
Spectacular chapel with singular views both gorgeous outside and inside. There's also a nice souvenir shop downstairs. Parking delay is worth the wait.
Desiree Regen — Google review
Breathtaking…It’s truly a slight to see…rising out of the dessert, one with the rock. Pictures do not do it justice.
Come here before any hiking if you plan to. You can see the massive landmarks like cathedral rock, and then hike other places like Devil’s Bridge or the Birthing cave that you can’t see without hiking.
When you pass the porta-potties, that is the last spot to go to the bathroom (none in the chapel). Between those and the actual chapel is a little parking along the road, with handicap at the top. You can take shuttles/golf carts if you don’t find a spot or the walk is too tough.
If you are not comfortable driving in tight spaces around people, and turning around quick at the top to come back down, I recommend looking for parking at the bottom and walking up and getting a shuttle (golf carts) or walking up
EM — Google review
Nice view but it was really hard to find a parking space and took a while plus too much crowd. The place looked well maintained at least the chapel and sorroundings but I wish they have side walk or good space for people who are walking/hiking and parking.
Yenoh Nalas — Google review
Breathtaking scenery and moving architecture make this a great stop. We visited on Good Friday, which may have explained the heavy flow of visitors in and out. There are multiple spots to park along the drive that are well signed and multiple staff members guiding. There was even a golf cart helping escort visitors up the hill.
Sylvia Davidson — Google review
This is definitely worth the trip and hassle. Resist the urge to park in first spot you find. The climb in the elevation to the top is not fun. Keep driving to the top and you should end up with a good and close parking spot.
The view and the chapel are beautiful.
Ron Rogers — Google review
A peaceful place to visit, reflect and enjoy the spectacular views! It is a walk up, but doable. A trolley can bring you up from the bottom. If driving, pack you patience.
Blanche Kapushion — Google review
Initially I put Chapel of the Holy Cross as an optional place to visit. When the staff from the visitor center suggested places to visit, when we have only 1 day to explore without long hike, this place became a must see.
The view from the ground is very spectacular, when there is no mass they play some chanting music inside the chapel. I wished they had some speakers outside to allow visitors to meditate through viewing God's unique creation surrounding the chapel.
I felt a spiritual connection as I visited this place.
Parking is limited.
Amazing trail
Fairly easy hike, several stream crossings, beautiful country,
Well traveled
Sherri Knutson — Google review
Absolutely one of the most beautiful hikes you can take in Sedona. While most people only venture a mile or so in, the canyon really gets more beautiful the further you go back (and more peaceful!). Between the creek that you cross several times, the towering cliffs, and the lush trees and ground cover you really can't ask for more. Take a lunch and go back 3-4 miles and you will have the place to yourself. Take time to sit down and take in your surroundings as the canyon is overwhelming. My favorite time of year is fall and time of day is mid to late afternoon. That time of day really allows you to take in the beautiful colors of the surrounding cliffs as the sunlight sneaks away. Make sure to wear good shoes and be prepared to fall in love with this place. I would give this trail 5 stars but the $11 fee to park is a little high in my opinion and your regular red Rock passes that everyone stops and buys in town do not work there. Also the fact that they only accept cash is a little inconvenient as there is now where close to go and get it if you forget. So make sure you have money before you take the drive up. Plan in spending at least a few hours and make sure to look around, as there are hidden ruins and things to see everywhere you look!!
alwayz offroad — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous and easy hike. Very family friendly with amazing views to take awesome family photos. There are restrooms and parking at the entrance. The trail is 3.3mi one way and has 13 stream crossings.
Mike A — Google review
Parking is cash only, so be prepared!
A stunning hike once you get farther from the start and the road. It can be crowded at the beginning.
When theres water, its a fun place to find slide rocks and get your feet wet! There is plenty of shade to keep cool in, and though certain river crossings can be more precarious, kids would be fine. Be prepared to pet some adventure doggos too!
An awesome hike if youre looking for something a little more shaded than cathedral rock.
Ellie B — Google review
Unfortunately we missed the fall color by two weeks but this was still an amazing lil adventurous hike . Suggestion get to trailhead early. This place gets packed and no other place to really park around other than parking lot. Also you may get wet at one of the many water crossings
Juanita Belardes — Google review
Beautiful and easy hike but can be busy or crowded on holidays. It’s all the way at the bottom of the canyon and takes about 15 minutes to get there after you pass slide rock. There are logs you need to cross and shoes that can get wet are recommended. The trail is well shaded and flat for the most part.
Christina Tolman — Google review
Stayed in Sedona for 2 weeks. Hiked many trails, this being my favorite.
Easy casual walking, lots of shade from vegetation. Historical architectural ruins along the path. Take a walk in the creek, sit on the rocks, and be present with the ravens, singing birds, butterflies, dragon flies, and little fish swimming at your feet.
Locals hiking around me verbalized Fort Creek Trail was their favorite too.
Di — Google review
It's a beautiful hike. One of the prettiest and one ov my favorites.
The hiking area Airport Mesa offers stunning 360-degree views of the red rocks of Sedona and is a great place to take photos. There is an easy 5-minute drive uphill from the Sedona airport and short hikes offer great views as well as experiences like vortex energy.
Pretty easy overall. Just be ready for some steps and inclines. Beautiful scenery and lots of choice shots for the camera. Wear proper footwear. It can be slippery in some areas and no guard rails. So basically you're in for a free fall if you do. But hey, no worries. You got this tiger! 👍
Darth Ruina — Google review
A nice hike just below the rim of the mesa. Because it's a loop around, you get some nice views of the surrounding valleys and vistas. If you're lucky, you may have a small plane fly overhead when you're near the end of the runway. A portion of this hike runs adjacent to the airport fence, so you sort of lose that "nature" aspect for that part. Otherwise it's a different and cool type of hike.
Joe M — Google review
Airport Mesa was a nice, short trail that offered a cable handrail to assist with the climb up. As older folks, my husband and I considered this a luxury. This is a great place to take photos, and I recommend parking in the airport parking lot which is near the trail.
T N — Google review
This is my favorite hike that I’ve done in Sedona! It is a very moderate hike with gorgeous views that are visible shortly into the hike. Unlike Devil’s Bridge and Cathedral Rock (where the trail is quite frightening at times because of narrow ledges or steep, smooth inclines) this hike feels safe and much less intimidating. Perfect for newbie hikers and experienced hikers who are looking for a beautiful stroll.
Brandi A — Google review
I was in Sedona for 2 nights and went to Airport Mesa both nights for sunset. It's a great view of the sunset and the red rock mountains around the city. Get there about an hour before sunset, it gets a little crowded. It's $3.00 to park.
Lisa Alkire — Google review
Everyone knows about this place; they go to see the mountains at sunset. It gets windy, take a coat! Parking costs $3 so when you go for sunset, allow time for the line-up. Alternatively, one person can stay in the car and drive to the end of the road and wait for everyone else to take their photos of the sun bouncing off the rocks. The view from the end of the road isn’t bad and it’s much less crowded.
Deborah Purdy — Google review
Went here for the sunset. There is a 1 mile hike to reach the top which is not pretty easy and the sunset view was amazing. There are too many people when we went though. While hiking back after sunset the view gets even better with the light on in the city.
You can also park at the spot and there is view point which needs no hike. You can just sit there and enjoy the view.
Tejaswini Nama — Google review
Airport Mesa is an iconic spot for Sunsets and you have great views of Bell and Cathedral Rock. They have paid parking at the top here (by airport) and the queue to get in sometimes is long. Recommend getting there early and securing an awesome spot on the overlook or on the mesa midway up the hill. (Parking very limited there)
jamie foster — Google review
Awesome views from here. Must visit view point. Do stay here for the sunset.
R?vns — Google review
Great place for hiking. Watch out for snakes and scorpions.
Kathleen Annel Cooper — Google review
Easy out and back trail in Sedona with incredible 360 views! If you don’t have time to head on any longer trails this is a great option. Note that parking is extremely limited with only a few spots near the trailhead. We waited about 5 minutes and took the spot of someone who left.
Danielle — Google review
Beautiful hike that wasn’t overly strenuous. Lots of pretty wildflowers to check out along the way when you aren’t admiring the views of the mountains. Bonus - there’s a restaurant at the airport to grab a bite at when you get back around to the parking lot :)
Natasha Woods — Google review
Spectacular views and a short hike. It was maybe a 5 to 10 minute hike to get up to the best viewpoints. We spent a long time just hanging out up here admiring The View.
Stephen Stoops — Google review
Beautiful view of the city. There is a $3 parking fee, and there are a few toilets in the parking lot.
Definitely worth stopping by and admiring Sedona from above.
Suzy — Google review
The Airport Mesa Vortex is an especially unique energy when you choose to hike to it.
You can park your car in two places: one parking space is at the lower level, which is free. This lower level gives you direct access to the vortex. The other option is to park all the way at the top and pay a fee ($3.00), in which then you can take photos at the scenic point. Besides taking photos at the scenic point, I walked the Sedona View Trail which is a point to point trail that starts at the parking lot and ends at the vortex.
If you just want to take pictures, then the scenic view will do! If you do end up purchasing a parking pass, it is good for the entire day so you can leave and come back during sunset if you wanted to. If you want a bit more adventure, then I recommend getting on the trails and hiking! Hiking the actual rock was a little intimidating since it's rounded, but there is a wire that you can hold onto if need be.
This was one of my favorite things that I did while in Sedona! I definitely recommend it!
Recommendations: Wear good hiking shoes! I visited on a rainy, wet day so the path was very muddy and sometimes slippery. Likewise, be mindful of where you step - there are a lot of rocks on the path and cactuses on the sides.
Jasmine — Google review
Easy place to drive to for some great vista shots of Sedona.
If youre going for sunset pictures get there early. It will get crowded quickly as it's a popular spot. It costs 3 dollars to park as well once you get to the top.
Although sunset is pretty, the surrounding landscape gets in the way from getting those shots with a lot of color.
It's worth a drive up, but don't count on amazing sunset shots, at least in my experience
Neil Hodges — Google review
A great place to watch the sun set over Sedona.
It gets crowded, so make sure to arrive with plenty of time. Plenty of parking on site for only a couple of dollars
Justin Lynch — Google review
Lovely view point. I will clarify the parking situation. There is 10 parking spots that are free. If it’s full, you could pull into and wait as there is room to do so. Cars seem to leave frequently. 5 minutes to the summit view point. It’s steep, but very doable. 360 degree views. I went in late November, and the sunset wasn’t ideal as it went down behind the mountain. See photo. I would wait atleast 10 minutes for the sun to go down, as the sky didn’t change for us until later on.
If there isn’t parking. You can continue to drive up the mountain to the airport over flow parking ($3). It’s a 15 minute walk/hike to the free parking. There is also a view point there that is nice, but it’s not 360 degree views.
Darian Wickstead — Google review
Great views, I came here in the afternoon, hopefully next time will be able to stay longer to see the sunset.
There are paid parking at the top, it’s $3 per vehicle. You can go for a hike through a small gate at the side of parking lot. It’s a pretty short hike, it takes about 30-40mins to get to the summit but it can be pretty tiring if you are not used to hiking since you will be going up and down on the way. Some parts of the trail are steep and slippery but they have chains for you to hold onto. Suggest wearing a pair of hiking shoes and you’ll be good!
Yannie — Google review
Located in the city of Sedona just five minutes away. I would recommend to go buy a car as it is on a higher elevation views of the Sedona are amazing hiking is very moderate. Enjoy the sunset, and the sunrise view from here or just go there to chill and take some nice photographs.
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