Climbing & Other Outdoor Adventures
Breathtaking outdoor scenes are bountiful in New Mexico. Explore the cragged landscape through bouldering or on one of the many downhill mountain-bike trails, or head out into the wilderness on foot for a more in-depth look into the varied landscape. While there are many alpine and high-desert environments in the Land of Enchantment, there are also many opportunities for aquatic adventure. Dive into one of New Mexico's lakes or get your blood pumping on a river-rafting excursion.
Meet Ben Hanna
Santa Fe native Ben Hanna has been rock climbing since he was a toddler. Facing adversity in his early career, Ben pushed through his doubt and made huge strides in both the competition and outdoor climbing scene, including becoming one of the youngest climbers ever to establish a new 5.14d route: a New Mexican climbing destination outside of Truth or Consequences. He demonstrated enormous skill in the sport, elevating himself from his high school’s junior climbing team to the World Cup Circuit, while also ticking off many difficult outdoor routes in New Mexico and beyond. Ben continues to strive to compete professionally in addition to his inspired personal climbs in the wilderness.
Visit Ben's Climbing Spots
New Mexico is home to a plethora of outdoor climbing and hiking due to its unique and varied landscape, and with Ben, we explore a few of the state's exceptional destinations. Roy is a quiet town nestled in the high plains of northeastern New Mexico and offers access to the canyons that are renowned for bouldering. Towering nearly 12,000 feet to the northwest of Santa Fe, the Jemez Mountains feature many peaks and valleys that offer great opportunity for sport climbing, hiking, and camping. The Bat Cave is located just south of Truth or Consequences and features options for hiking, climbing, and bouldering alike. (Be aware that access to the area necessitates a high-clearance or an AWD vehicle.)
Tackle New Mexico's Great Outdoors
Hiking and Camping in New Mexico
New Mexico features some of the most varied climates and landscapes in the United States, which lend themselves to awe-inspiring hiking and camping experiences. Ascend one of the mountain ranges for a challenging backpacking trip or head to one of the paved trails for something a bit more leisurely. There many are designated camping areas across the Land of Enchantment, and from secluded outcroppings in the forest, to RV parks, yurts, and cabins, there are options for every type of adventurer.
Aquatic Adventures
Although many envision New Mexico to be a desert landscape, instead there are a plethora of waterways, lakes, and rivers to explore. Head northwest to boat or swim at Navajo Dam Lake, one of the largest lakes in New Mexico, or travel just west of the dam to take a rafting ride down the San Juan River. If you find yourself further south, stop by the miraculous Blue Hole in Santa Rosa to check out the clear waters and go for a dive! And no trip to the Land of Enchantment is complete without a whitewater adventure on the mighty Rio Grande, which has seasonal rafting opportunities in the Taos area.
Two-Wheeled Excursions
New Mexico's varied terrain encourages bikeable adventures, whether it be on the trail or on the road. There are many opportunities to explore the landscape on your preferred mode of transportation! Grab a rental or head out with your own equipment and hit the trails or the open road!
Elevated Experiences
Take to the skies in a colorful hot air balloon and get a view of the Land of Enchantment that is entirely unique! Although New Mexico is most famous for its Albuquerque International Balloon Festival, thrilling flights take place across the state throughout the year. Step outside your comfort zone and float with us!
Scenic Byways
New Mexico is the fifth-largest state in the U.S. by area, and that means there are plenty of scenic routes that showcase the beauty of the landscape. Perfect for those looking to explore the Land of Enchantment but cannot make it out into the wilderness, these byways allow you to experience the views from the comfort of the open road!