About 45 to 1 hour drive from Santa Fe, NM these mountains consist of a broadly circular ridge surrounding the Valles Caldera, a supervolcano, that shaped New Mexico and modify dramatically its environment between 1.1 and 1.4 million years ago. Leaving behind a group of mountains, canyons and mesas (mountain with flat top - Mesa is table in Spanish), these mountains are such opportunities for recreation outdoors activities.

In the Jemez, pretty much any outdoor activities are possible and so enjoyable. Mountain bike, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, hot springs.

And if you are not into outdoors activities, driving around and through the Valle Grande is just stunning! You are definitely going through so divers landscape. Many time it's just breathtaking! You could easily think that you are jumping from one state to another due to the change of environment in such short distance.



All seasons are enjoyable in this area. In the winter it's not always drivable! due to the snow condition on the road. But believe me if you get the opportunity to drive around in winter it is surrealist, and so beautiful! Then you can stop in the Jemez Village to get warm in the hot springs surrounded by stunning mountains views, or take some time to visit Jemez Monument, a 17th century mission ruins surrounded by Indian habitations.




Before returning you couldn't help to stop at the breathtaking area of Jemez Pueblo, where the native american held ceremonies and Pow wow. The red rocks are so stirring.

Whenever I pass by I can feel the power and history of these inspiring rocks, and I am always moved by the spirit of the mountains.

Ask about our special tour on the Jemez mountain.