Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, Cochiti Pueblo

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!

This place is really amazing and not far from major hubs in NM. The slot canyons are incredible! The hike to the top after the slot canyons is neat for an overview but may be challenging for some. If you don’t feel like climbing after the slot canyons - don’t. The canyons are really the star of the show anyways. Really fascinating landscape. Pretty accessible. Good signage. The canyons offer plenty of shade but so make sure to wear sturdy footwear and pack plenty of water. Highly recommend some type of hydration bladder backpack. Also make sure you take your camera!