Cochiti

A volcanic explosion roughly six million years ago gave us this geological marvel: cone-shaped “tent rocks” 40 miles southwest of Santa Fe. The three-mile hike takes you first through an arroyo surrounded by the canyon walls, and a small climb punctuated by juniper trees, before rewarding you with amazing views of the national monument and the surrounding area. Parking is straightforward—there’s a lot at the beginning of the trail ($5) with restrooms and picnic tables.