The Santa Fe National Forest is home to many of the most beautiful national parks in New Mexico. From the high desert to the snow-capped Sangre de Cristos, these parks offer a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors.
Here are some of the best national parks in Santa Fe, NM
- Cathedral Park
https://www.hmdb.org/PhotoFullSize.asp?PhotoID=610496
Cathedral park is a great place to take in the local sights and sounds of Santa Fe. The park has a great view of the city and provides plenty of open space for walking, running and biking. There are also several trails that wind through the park, making it a great place for hiking or just enjoying nature.
The park also features an amphitheater that hosts musical performances throughout the year. If you’re looking for a place to relax after a long day of sightseeing, this is definitely the place.
- Hyde Memorial State Park
This park is located in the Sandia Mountains, and it’s a great place to take in some of the best views in New Mexico. There are plenty of hiking trails available, including one that takes you up to a lookout point overlooking the city of Santa Fe. The park also has a variety of wildlife, including black-footed ferrets and white-nosed coatis. If you’re looking for something more strenuous, there are several hikes that will lead you through lush forests and across open meadows.
- Dale Ball Trails
https://brokenspokesantafe.com/trails/dale-ball/
Dale Ball Trails is located off of I-25 just north of Santa Fe and is a great place to take a walk or run. The trail has a variety of terrain, from desert to forest, and it’s easy to get lost in the maze of trails. The trail is also dog friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend along on your adventure. There are some great spots for a picnic or barbecue on this trail, which makes it a great place to go for lunch or dinner after your hike.
Santa Fe Canyon Preserve
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-mexico/santa-fe-canyon-preserve-trail-fall-nm/
This is a park located in northern Santa Fe County, New Mexico. It’s about an hour’s drive from the city of Santa Fe. The park has several hiking trails, including a steep trail to the top of an overlook that gives you views of the surrounding area. You can also hike through the canyon itself or check out some of the rock formations and other natural features that make this place special.
Capulin Mountain Ranch State Park
https://www.newmexico.org/listing/capulin-volcano-national-monument/2548/
Capulin Mountain Ranch State Park is located just north of Santa Fe and offers visitors access to hiking trails, camping, and other outdoor activities like horseback riding, mountain biking, and more. It also has some great views to enjoy from the top of one of its peaks.
Conclusion
There are a lot of incredible national parks around the country if you’re looking for vacation spots. But if you’re looking for the best ways to go on a trip in Santa Fe, consider checking out some of the above great national parks.