jojo523

I am planning trip this month (may)-landing in Albuquerque mid afternoon, spending two nights. then drive to TAOS for two nights and last 3 nights in Santa fe. Should we see tent rocks as part of Albuquerque or side trip from Santa fe? Also would Bandalier Natl Monument be a side trip from Santa Fe? How much time is needed at both these parks? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Also want to go up the Sandia Peak tramway. Can we do tent rocks in the Morning come back to Albuquerque and to old town shop, have lunch and go to Sandia peak for sunset?

emalloy

Bandelier is an easy side trip from Santa Fe. We also like the smaller section of Bandolier called Tsankawai which is about 5 miles closer to SF.

If you use the Turquoise trail from SF to Albuquerque, you can drive up to Sandia Peak from that road. It does not run if the wind is too strong, which it has been when we've been there.

BigRuss

Thinking the "It" emalloy referred to that does not run if it's windy at Sandia Peak is the tramway.

Tent Rocks is on the way to Santa Fe from Albuquerque. Bandelier is north and west of Santa Fe and near Los Alamos. Each is a couple of hours' worth of wandering for the main hike, more if you take the more strenuous hike available at Tent Rocks.

I'd go to Tent Rocks for a couple of hours en route to Taos - leave Albuquerque in the morning, hike at Tent Rocks, go to Tomasita's in SF for lunch, drive the remainder to Taos.

DebitNM

It is already starting to get warm here, so I would be sure to do Tent Rocks in the morning. There are 2 main routes, a more difficult one that involves some decent climbing and scrambling. It is a 1 way trail so you can turn around any time you want. There is also a loop trail that is easier. Bring LOTS of water. There are picnic tables and outhouses, no services.

The tram is pretty pricey, I would drive up to the crest from SR 14 on the way from Santa Fe.

I would do Tent Rocks on the way to Santa Fe; Sandia Crest on the way back to ABQ.

What do you plan to do in ABQ??

jojo523

Thanks for your help! Had a great day today. Left our hotel in ABQ at 830 and got to Tent Rocks at 930am.perfect weather, not too hot,blue skies. Hiked the 1.5 mile trail, then continued further through the slot canyons for a mile. Just incredibly beautiful. We then went south heading back to ABQ but stopped at the Sandia Peak, taking the tram up to the top, such amazing views. Had lunch at restaurant at the top. Hiked a short part of la luz trail. Great day. And will be heading for Taos tomorrow.

Thoughts on Turquoise Trail to Santa Fe vs rt I 25 and then high road or low road to Taos? After 2 days in Taos, we'll be heading to Santa Fe, so whichever road we take going north to Taos, we can take the other coming down to S Fe. Any order or better to take in one direction than the other.?
Thanks,

DebitNM

Yesterday was indeed a glorious day; perfect for Tent Rocks. Hope you made it back down the tram before the rain.

Turquoise Trail vs I25 - It takes a bit longer, especially depending where you start from in ABQ. If it rains today, I would definitely take the interstate up.

Personally, I would take I25 regardless, since you are going to Taos. You will get plenty of scenery from SF to Taos. Going via TT adds a lot of time, and I would prefer to be in Taos sooner, rather than later. I have no suggestion re: high or low road in one specific direction vs the other.