About Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
Entry into the monument is by reservation only, Thursdays through Mondays between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Visitors are asked to exit the monument by 4:00 p.m. Visitors may make reservations at Recreation.gov for dates through June 29, 2026. Please check Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument webpage for future ticket release dates. The Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is a remarkable outdoor laboratory, offering an opportunity to observe, study, and experience the geologic processes that shape natural landscapes. The National Monument, on the Pajarito Plateau in north-central New Mexico, includes a national recreation trail and ranges from 5,570 feet to 6,760 feet above sea level. It is for foot travel only, and contains two segments that provide opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, geologic observation, and plant identification.The cone-shaped tent rock formations are the products of volcanic eruptions that occurred 6 to 7 million years ago and left pumice, ash, and tuff deposits over 1,000 feet thick. Tremendous explosions from the Jemez volcanic field spewed pyroclasts (rock fragments), while searing hot gases blasted down slopes in an incandescent avalanche called a pyroclastic flow.Precariously perched on many of the tapering hoodoos are boulder caps that protect the softer pumice and tuff below. Some tents have lost their hard, resistant caprocks, and are disintegrating. While fairly uniform in shape, the tent rock formations vary in height from a few feet up to 90 feet.Please note that dogs are not allowed in the Monument.
How to Get There
All visitors must check-in at the Cochiti Visitor Center prior to entry into the Monument. Please be sure to make your first stop at the Visitor Center and wait for a pilot vehicle prior to entering the Monument.From Albuquerque, head north on I-25 and take the exit for Santo Domingo/Cochiti Lake Recreation Area (Exit 259) off I-25 onto NM 22. Turn right into the Cochiti Visitor Center for check-in.From Santa Fe, head south on I-25 and take the Cochiti Pueblo Exit 264 off I-25 onto NM 16. Turn right off NM 16 onto NM 22, and turn right into the Cochiti Visitor Center for check-in.Note, following the GPS coordinates may take you through Tribal lands that are not accessible. Please follow the directions above and access the Monument from I-25.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
Heading to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument?
Yes — reservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Popular sites fill quickly, especially weekends and holidays. Book up to 6 months in advance.
How do I get to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument?
All visitors must check-in at the Cochiti Visitor Center prior to entry into the Monument. Please be sure to make your first stop at the Visitor Center and wait for a pilot vehicle prior to entering the Monument.From Albuquerque, head north on I-25 and take the exit for Santo Domingo/Cochiti Lake Recreation Area (Exit 259) off I-25 onto NM 22. Turn right into the Cochiti Visitor Center for check-i…
How do I contact Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument?
You can reach the park at phone: 505-761-8700.
References & Official Resources
