May 21, 2010 -- Missing an opportunity to explore the Jemez Mountains would certainly be a travesty while in New Mexico. Last weekend my wife and I took the time to immerse ourselves in a truly wonderful exploration of this amazing land.
First stop, Jemez State Monument. The historic complex was once home to a large 14th century pueblo village (Giusewa), whose descendants are the present day Jemez (walatowa) Pueblo.
Later the Spanish would erect an imposing 17th Century Spanish Mission as they expanded their influence and culture on the region.
Following a self guided interpretive trail we walked the foothills of San Diego Canyon and reflected on the lives that gave this place meaning.
Our next stop was the roadside natural attraction of Soda Dam. The 300-foot-long natural dam was created by mineral deposits from a hot spring.
Further up SR4, we found the trail-head to the secluded Spence Hot Springs on the steep hillside of an unassuming mountain in the Santa Fe National Forest.
After a short hike we were rewarded with a natural hot spring with incredible views.
I nearly poked a mountain toad as I put my hand into this hand hold getting into the pools.
The soak was perfect as the pools lay in the shade even on a temperate late spring day.
After our dip it was further into the forest and a brief hike to Jemez Falls. Approximately 100 feet high, Jemez Falls is the largest waterfall in the Jemez Mountains and an easy mile hike.
Soon we were back in the car for a short ride to one of the many Valles Caldera National Preserve overlooks. This giant caldera is one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world and recent studies suggest the area may be gearing up for another impressive volcanic eruption (hopefully, this is quite a ways off!)
Bandelier National Monument was our next major destination and having explored the monument on my own previously, I was really excited to share one of my favorite parks with my wife. Certainly, the Jemez Mountains were a wonderful place to explore and experience, and our only regret was not having the time to discover more of her mysteries.
