Day 2 in the Land of Enchantment: “Beautiful.”

My second day in New Mexico was absolutely beautiful. With a bright blue sky behind all I did, I ended the day sun-drunk and in awe, again, of this country, her land. I realized that I can hike devotedly for hours for the reward of seeing a glimpse of her that I haven’t seen.

I started with a massive breakfast back at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort. I knew I needed my energy if I was to take on a strenuous hike through narrow slot canyons. I splurged at Santa Ana Cafe with an enormous breakfast: Tofu Scramble, side of papas, side of fruit, smoothie, carafe of coffee, and water. It was an amazing and well needed start to the day.

Fully satiated from the luxury resort’s vegan grub, I headed swiftly to the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks. Designated as a national monument in 2001, I was able to throw down my beloved Interagency Pass and hit the trail bright and early before it got too crowded. A day like today would be sure to pack their limited capacity.
Kasha-Katuwe means “white cliffs” in the traditional pueblo language. The tent-rock formations formed 6-7 million years ago via volcanic eruptions. Yes, 6-7 million years ago! I can’t even fathom that span of time.

There are only two trails to take in the park. The Cave Loop that leads you to this hole in the rock.

And the Slot Canyon Trail, which has you climbing all the way to the top, through slot canyons and steep inclines, to view the fascinating tent rocks from above. The trail is mostly easy until you reach the last 20 minutes or so when you’ll need your hands and sometimes your knees to help you navigate up the rocks. The views are well worth the strain.
I met a slot canyon photographer along the way who offered some advice on shooting the slots. I love early am hiking trail people.

Up there, more nice kind folks who thought it just as important to get up early and exert some energy on the reward of the fantastic view. And they offer to take your picture for you, so you let them.

Once you’re up there, walk the entire expanse for bunch of great view, drink your water, bask, and start your descent. But be prepared to encounter a ton of folks hiking up who eagerly await your estimations on how much longer they have and if their efforts are justified.

Onward north, I fell for the allure of the white sandstone cliffs of Plaza Blanca, inspiration for painter Georgia O’Keefe who is a big deal in the area. You gain access through a gravely road off the main drag that runs through Abiquiu. Parking and walk-up access is best through Dar Al Islam, an area mosque.

I was pounced upon early just looking at the sign. She insisted on taking my picture, which created this “Sure ok, but it hardly seems justified yet.” looking smile I have. My smile might have been different in the next 3 minutes. I realized just how easy it would be to access the cliffs… no long hikes with strenuous inclines. You can just walk down from the lot through any of a series of weaving and well worn paths and stand right next to the towering white cliffs!

More otherworldy beauty.

The sun was strong and pounding me. I had forgotten its strength.

When it was time to eat “dunch,” I headed back south to Albuquerque for craft tacos at El Cotorro. Two fresh, delicious and flavorful vegan tacos (Chard & Papita Guisado), some fresh made corn tortillas with my choice of salsa from the salsa bar and I was ready to continue further south. I am just passing through Santa Fe and Albuquerque, New Mexico’s larger cities, for now. I’ll be back later. After a long day in the sun, it was time to crash in a seedy methhead-style motel.