For an unforgettable spring adventure, pack your suitcase and head to Santa Fe County. You'll explore the things we most love about this spectacular region of the Southwest. We're talking high mountain desert hiking and soothing spa getaways, rich cultural excursions and fun day trips. History buffs, don't miss the re-creation of a key battle in the American Civil War, hosted by one of our treasured National Historical Parks. We invite you to visit Santa Fe County this spring for an authentic travel experience, the kind we've all been craving. Wedding season will also be in full bloom and you won't find a more romantic setting than the enchanting environs of northern New Mexico.
The Top Five Things We Love About Santa Fe County
What do locals love most about living in Santa Fe County? We could fill a book with all the answers to that question (and many authors have). Instead, we've compiled a list of our five favorite things, and we're sure that once you've explored them, you're going to love them, too.
1. High Mountain Desert Hiking and Biking
As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, spring is a superb season for hiking and mountain biking in majestic wilderness. From winding mountain trails to scenic urban hikes, a diverse range of terrain suits hikers and bikers of every level. Rediscover yourself in the Galisteo Basin Preserve, where hiking and biking trails through pristine nature help you unplug from the world. Stay the night in a safari-style tent for a unique glamping experience at Kitfox. The expansive starry skies will leave you breathless. You can book now for the spring and summer season, which starts in May. For an otherworldly hike, visit the picturesque Diablo Canyon Recreation Area. Experience the towering basalt cliffs, known as one of the best rock-climbing areas in New Mexico. Admire panoramic views on the Dale Ball Trails, a 25-mile network of pathways through the Sangre de Cristo foothills. La Tierra Trails offers rolling terrain and single-speed cross country rides for all levels of bikers. The 25-mile trail system is also a place to polish your jumps and other Freeride skills.
Find more information at: santafenmtrue.com/day-trips/off-the-beaten-path
2. The Ale & Spirits Trail
Discover award-winning local craft breweries on our Ale & Spirits Trail. Check out Santa Fe Brewing Company, New Mexico's first and biggest craft brewery, and Beer Creek Brewing Company, both part of a blossoming locally grown hops movement. Artisan distilleries like Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery craft tequila and other acclaimed spirits. Your elevated experience on the trail includes live music, fantastic food, and brewery and distillery tours. (Be sure to drink responsibly and choose a designated driver.)
Find more information at: santafenmtrue.com/day-trips/along-the-ale-spirits-trail
3. Turquoise Trail Treasures
Journey back to the days of the Wild West on the historic Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway. You'll visit mining towns that once teemed with saloons, vaudeville theaters, opera houses and gunslingers. Now, they're filled with unique shops, galleries and restaurants. In Cerrillos Hills State Park, discover the area's rich mining history, as well as abundant wildlife, along five miles of interpretive trails.
Find more information at: santafenmtrue.com/day-trips/turquoise-trail
4. Cultural Traditions
The Spanish settled Chimayó in the 17th century. Today, this small village of plazas, placitas, orchards and chile fields is home to world-renowned weavers who continue a legacy that dates back more than three centuries. The village is also home to El Santuario de Chimayó, a 19th-century adobe chapel and shrine that is revered for the dirt in the chapel's small well. Many believe it holds miraculous healing powers. Don't leave without tasting the James Beard award-winning cuisine of the region, including the famous Chimayó red chile, at the nearby family-run Rancho de Chimayó restaurant.
Find more information at: santafenmtrue.com/day-trips/where-traditions-run-deep
5. The World's Most Wonderful Spas
Let your cares float away in the healing waters of a world-class spa. Surrounded by a serene landscape of mountains beneath a tranquil turquoise sky, you'll rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit. Treat yourself to more bliss with a soothing massage, herbal wrap and other specialty spa treatments. From a rustic Japanese mountain spa-inspired resort to a luxury spa offering Native American-inspired treatments, a world of tranquility awaits you in one of the many world-renowned spas in Santa Fe County. Relaxation options are plentiful at Ojo Santa Fe Resort, Ten Thousand Waves and other spas.
Find more information at: santafenmtrue.com/spas.
An Exquisite Wedding
If you're ready to say “I do,” the romance, beauty and charm of Santa Fe County provide the perfect setting for your spectacular wedding. Couples have long traveled here from around the world to take their vows in this incredible destination. Select a wedding venue that perfectly reflects you both, from a stunning outdoor landscape to a luxury resort or a historic ranch that is now a living history museum in a pastoral setting. With incredible chefs to prepare your wedding feast, and the music of mariachis, a string quartet or an R&B band, you'll have endless choices to customize your special day.
Honoring American History
In March of 1862, a three-day battle between Confederate and Union forces decisively set the course of the American Civil War. Known as the “Gettysburg of the West,” the Battle of Glorieta Pass ended with the Union defeat of the Confederate invasion of the New Mexico Territory. The battle is commemorated on March 26 with the annual Civil War Encampment in Pecos National Historical Park, which oversees the Glorieta Battlefield Trail. The popular event features costumed soldiers, black powder firing demonstrations, speakers discussing aspects of the battle and Civil War-era life and other exciting events.
Get ready for a spring sojourn to remember, in Santa Fe County! We're looking forward to seeing you. For more information, visit our website, www.SantaFeNMTrue.com, and be sure to follow us on social media.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Mystery Train
You and your fellow passengers must put your wits together to solve the Murder on the Lamy Line, a murder mystery train excursion to the historic railroad town of Lamy. Everyone’s a suspect! It’s all part of Sky Train Railway’s immersive train adventures. This train leaves the Santa Fe station at 6:05 p.m., starting April 27.
A Bevy of Burros
Cheer on your favorite burro in the Turquoise Trail Pack Burro Race, held Saturday May 7 in the historic mining town of Cerrillos. The race begins at 10 a.m. on Main Street and follows the trails of the scenic Cerrillos Hills State Park on two race courses, a 3-mile route and a 6-mile route. (The longer course adheres to the Western Pack Burro Association race rules.)
Run for Fun
Run through history during the El Camino Real Fun Run on May 14, with a Half Marathon, 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run. It all takes place on the grounds of the acclaimed living history museum, El Rancho de las Golondrinas, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2022. The routes follow the historic El Camino Real and end with a post-race party, featuring live music, food trucks and a beer tent.
Scenic Cycling
Gear up for the Santa Fe Century Annual Ride, Friday, May 20-Sunday, May 22.
This popular ride draws cyclists from around the country for a scenic tour that starts and ends in Santa Fe and passes through the Ortiz Mountains and the Galisteo Basin. A range of distance preferences are available both Saturday and Sunday. Registration required.
To explore more Santa Fe County events, please visit: santafenmtrue.com/events