Here are 7 Must-Do Outdoor Adventures in Santa Fe

Explore Santa Fe’s enchanting outdoor wonders, where every corner whispers tales of unforgettable adventures waiting to be discovered. Dive into the pulse-pounding rush of adrenaline-fueled rapids, embrace sweeping panoramic vistas that steal your breath away, and immerse yourself in moments that linger in your memory long after the journey ends.

Here are the seven hidden gems of Santa Fe’s outdoor paradise, promising a tapestry of cool, captivating, and truly unforgettable thrills.

1. Picnic & Walk at Santa Fe River

The first must-do is a Santa Fe River Walk and Park Picnic, a delightful adventure perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. You can start your journey by taking a leisurely walk along the Santa Fe River, winding through charming neighborhoods until you reach the picturesque Patrick Smith Park.

Location: Begin in Downtown Santa Fe and follow West Alameda Street to Patrick Smith Park.

What to Bring: You should wear comfortable shoes for walking, carry water to stay hydrated, bring a picnic blanket for a cozy picnic at the park, and remember to pack your favorite book to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Best Time to Visit: The Santa Fe River Walk and Park Picnic are best enjoyed during the spring through fall seasons, when the weather is warm, and the foliage is lush, creating a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor excursion.

2. Santa Fe Botanical Gardens

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Next on the list is a visit to the Santa Fe Botanical Gardens. Here is where you can get lost in the serene oasis surrounded by native plants and stunning mountain views. This Santa Fe floral escape smells like a perfume shop but in natural style.

Location: 715 Camino Lejo, Santa Fe, NM 87505, USA

What to Bring: Bring a hat for sun protection, sunscreen, water to stay hydrated, comfortable walking shoes, and, of course, a camera to capture the beautiful sights.

Best Time to Visit: The gardens are enjoyable year-round, showcasing their unique beauty each season.

3. Waterfall Hike at Hyde Memorial State Park

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This third one on the list is like a double whammy. The Hyde Memorial State Park is just picture-perfect for a family-friendly outdoor adventure. You can hike briefly, enjoy the trees, and breathe fresh air. But nine waterfall trails lead to beautiful waterfalls, especially the Waterfall Trail. So why gift yourself a little gift of enjoying the calm, fresh waterfall? You can check out more about the trails at www.alltrails.com/parks/us/colorado/sangre-de-cristo-wilderness/waterfall.

Location: 740 Hyde Park Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501. For the Waterfall Trail, start at the Hyde Memorial State Park entrance and follow the well-marked Waterfall Trail.

What to Bring: Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring a water bottle, snacks for energy, and a camera to capture the waterfall, and consider packing a picnic for a scenic lunch.

Best Time to Visit: Spring is ideal when the park is lush, and the waterfall is most active.

4. Dale Ball Trails

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Now, this one is just breathtaking. Have you ever heard of the Dale Ball Trail System? It’s like the coolest hiking network you’ve probably never heard of! Imagine this massive network of trails, covering over 22 miles and around 347 acres of city and county land. It’s like a hidden gem in Santa Fe waiting to be explored!

So, here’s the deal. You start your epic adventure at the Sierra del Norte parking lot. It’s easy to find, just a 10-minute drive from downtown Santa Fe. Once you’re there, you’ll see these awesome trails with super clear signs, making it a breeze to choose your path.

My favorite route? Oh, it’s starting at Marker 1 and looping to Marker 9. It’s about 2.5 miles of pure hiking bliss! But hey, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can tack on the A section for even more trail excitement.

Location: Begin at the Sierra del Norte parking lot, a convenient starting point for various trail options.

What to Bring: Hiking boots, plenty of water, snacks for the trail, a trail map for navigation, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning vistas.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall has its pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage along the trails.

5. Nambe Lake

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If you love a little challenge, this one is for you. Take yourself on this thrilling adventure to the serene alpine haven of Nambe Lake, cradled amidst the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains ( like the number 3 one). It’s like stepping into a slice of the Swiss Alps in New Mexico.

The round trip spans 6.3 miles, with an escalation of nearly 10,000. Allow yourself 3-4 hours, factoring in moments to bask in the breathtaking vistas along the way. It’s a journey that whispers aloha vibes and invites you to embrace the wilderness with open arms.

Location: The trailhead to Nambe Lake is typically accessed from the Santa Fe Ski Basin area, about a 30-minute drive from downtown Santa Fe.

What to Bring: Sturdy hiking boots, sufficient water for the hike, high-energy snacks, a camera to capture the alpine scenery, and a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake.

Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall are perfect when the trail is snow-free and offers clear views of the lake.

6. Mountain Biking the La Tierra Trails

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If mountain biking is your thing, then this is a must-do in Santa Fe. The La Tierra Trails provide an exhilarating mountain biking experience with scenic vistas, making it a buzzing hotspot for mountain biking fun! My favorite thing is that you can dive into the rugged terrain and scenic beauty of this area. You can go on your own, but I would prefer that you take a guided tour with Santa Fe Mountain Adventures for an unforgettable outdoor experience right in the heart of Santa Fe!

Location: The La Tierra Trails are in the La Tierra area of Santa Fe, New Mexico. The trailhead and central access point are typically found off Highway 599, near the intersection with Camino La Tierra. Head to the La Tierra Trailhead to access the network of biking trails.

What to Bring: Wear a helmet for safety, gloves for grip, carry water and snacks for energy, a repair kit for bike maintenance, and a camera to capture the thrill of biking.

Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall offers dry trails and pleasant biking weather.

7. Whitewater Rafting on the Rio Grande

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Last but not least, let’s jump into some wild fun of whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande! Picture yourself navigating through thrilling rapids, with the sun warming your face and the refreshing river spray. As you paddle, take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the rugged canyons and towering cliffs that line the riverbanks.

With experienced guides from Rio Grande Rafting Company leading the way, every twist and turn becomes an unforgettable adventure. And this creates memories that will last a lifetime. So grab your gear, gather your crew, and prepare to conquer the rapids in style!

Location: Book a guided rafting trip with Santa Fe Rafting Company for a thrilling adventure.

What to Bring: Wear swimwear for water activities, water shoes for comfort, sunscreen for sun protection, water for hydration, snacks for energy, and a waterproof camera to capture the rafting action.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer are ideal for higher river levels and optimal rafting conditions.