After picking you up at the Inn and Spa at Loretto in Santa Fe, you will enjoy a scenic drive through Northern New Mexico past historic Camel Rock and through Espanola (the Lowrider Capital of the World). We will continue on the upper road by the Puye Cliff Dwellings to Ghost Ranch enjoying the expansive skies and views of the majestic plateaus that create the landscape of Northern New Mexico.

We’ll stop at Bode’s General Store, which was established in 1919 in the small village of Abiquiu, for a quick pit stop. Here, you’ll experience New Mexico’s still thriving first General Store, housing unique treasures only found at this historical marker.

Then, our journey takes you to the edge of the Colorado Plateau, where you will hike with magnificent views of the Chama River Valley and immerse yourself in the colorful ribbons of sandstone.

New Mexico’s State Fossil, the Coelophysis dinosaur, was discovered in Ghost Ranch by paleontologist Edwin H. Colbert in 1947. The over one thousand well-preserved fossilized skeletons pieced together a dinosaur that could be likened to a smaller version of the Tyrannosaurus Rex and was celebrated as a valuably rare discovery. So, while you take in the aromas of ancient piñon forest overlooking an earth that has captivated so many artisans, you’ll also learn more about this prehistoric geomorphology that once lay beneath an ancient sea.

Following the hike refuel with a delicious picnic lunch while soaking in the views of Abiquiu Lake.

Finally, with fresh tan marks, lots of fresh air and fresh memories, we’ll journey back to Santa Fe with a stop at Romero’s Roadside stand. You’ll get a taste of traditional New Mexican cuisine at this quintessential Northern New Mexico stand selling the best of New Mexican chiles.