Hike amid pueblo ruins in New Mexico
The outfitter Extraordinary Journeys crafts the ultimate insiders’ itineraries to the very best of New Mexico—including hot-air-ballooning over the Rio Grande Gorge. Most visitors to this UNESCO World Heritage Site follow the paths through Pueblo Bonito and Chetro Ketl - as they should. However, it’s hard to appreciate the massive scale of these magnificent ruins, while you’re in them. Until the 19th century, the buildings here were the largest in North America. That’s why this 4.5-mile trail is so great; you can view both ruins from above since the path takes you around the canyon rim. Bear in mind that the climb is on the more strenuous side.
The outfitter Extraordinary Journeys built its reputation on safaris in Africa, pivoting to U.S. adventures during the pandemic. Hiking among the Puebloan archaeological ruins in Bandelier National Monument, either along the mellow 1.4-mile Main Loop, dotted with sites, or the 12-mile roundtrip to the Yapashi Pueblo, which has some arduous ascents from pine-shaded canyons. Experiencing the Rio Grande Gorge, New Mexico’s answer to the Grand Canyon, either from a hot air balloon or by riding its class III rapids. Lodgings include luxe tents in the dark sky–designated Chaco Canyon, Santa Fe’s landmark Bishop’s Lodge, and Ted Turner’s 550,000-acre Vermejo ranch, where you can hike, mountain bike, and ride horses.
Location: New Mexico, United States
