Discover the Best Outdoor Adventures in New MexicoAn epic journey through nature and history of northern New Mexico. Authorsjust_passinthrough
DestinationsAlbuquerqueItinerary

Day 1: Albuquerque Arrival & Sandia Foothills

Petroglyph National Monument
Petroglyph National Monument protects one of North America's largest collections of petroglyphs, with thousands of rock carvings created by Ancestral Pueblo peoples and early Spanish settlers.
See More
Sixty-Six Acres
Delicious and healthy food with a large patio and views of the Sandia Mountains.
See More
The Imperial
The coolest motel I've ever stayed in. A restored 1960s Route 66 property in Albuquerque, the Imperial pairs Jet Age architecture with modern rooms, a poolside lounge, an espresso bar at the front desk, and several on-site micro-eateries.
See More
Book
3128 Social House
Loved this modern gastropub on Central Avenue with craft cocktails and an eclectic drink selection.
See More
Michael Emery Trailhead
A popular access point for the Sandia Foothills trail system, offering easy-to-moderate hikes through desert landscapes with excellent sunset views.
See More
Sandia Foothills Open Space
The western edge of the Sandia Mountains, known for desert scenery, hiking trails, and golden-hour views across Albuquerque and the Rio Grande Valley.
See More

Day 2: Jemez Springs & Los Alamos

Hannah & Nate's
A locally loved breakfast café serving creative breakfast dishes, baked goods, and New Mexican favorites.
See More
Jemez Soda Dam
A natural limestone and mineral formation created by thousands of years of mineral-rich spring water deposits. One of the most photographed landmarks in the Jemez Valley.
See More
Spence Hot Springs
Beautiful hot springs overlooking the forest.
See More
Battleship Rock
A massive volcanic rock formation named for its resemblance to a battleship. Located in a scenic canyon surrounded by pine forests and streams.
See More
Jemez East River Slot Canyon
A narrow sandstone canyon carved by seasonal water flow. The route offers unique rock formations and a landscape very different from the surrounding forests.
See More
Las Conchas Trailhead
A gateway to hiking trails along the East Fork of the Jemez River, featuring waterfalls, meadows, volcanic geology, and forest scenery.
See More
Los Alamos National Laboratory
Best known as the birthplace of the Manhattan Project, Los Alamos combines scientific history with access to mountains, canyons, and archaeological sites.
See More
Pajarito Brewpub and Grill
A brewpub offering local beers and Southwestern-inspired pub fare.
See More

Day 3: Bandelier National Monument & Santa Fe

Los Alamos Project Main Gate
A preserved section of the original Manhattan Project entrance where visitors can learn about the secret wartime community established in Los Alamos.
See More
Anderson Overlook
A roadside viewpoint offering sweeping views of canyons, mesas, and the Rio Grande Valley.
See More
Bandelier National Monument
Bandelier National Monument preserves ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites, cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and canyon landscapes formed by volcanic activity.
See More
Tsankawi Prehistoric Sites
Part of Bandelier National Monument, featuring petroglyphs, carved pathways, ancient dwellings, and mesa-top views. Visitors climb ladders and follow routes worn into the soft volcanic tuff centuries ago.
See More
Pueblo Loop Trail
The monument’s signature trail, passing reconstructed pueblos, cliff dwellings, and archaeological sites along an easy loop.
See More
Alcove House
A ceremonial site built into a volcanic cliff alcove approximately 140 feet above the canyon floor, accessed by a series of ladders.
See More
Hotel Santa Fe, Hacienda & Spa
Stunning southwestern hotel with the most delicious restaurant.
See More
Book

Day 4: Departure Day

Santa Fe Plaza
Amazing art and food in the center of Santa Fe.
See More
Book
Cafe Pasqual's
THE best breakfast in Santa Fe plaza.
See More