Santa Fe National Forest

Santa Fe National Forest covers a large area across northern New Mexico with varying elevations and terrain types spread throughout. The landscape includes forested ridges, mountain meadows, river valleys, and rocky peaks with different plant communities at each level.

The Jemez and Pecos forest reserves were combined in 1915 to create this protected area under federal management. This merger established the foundation for protecting the region's forests and resources for future generations.

Multiple Pueblo communities used this land for hunting and gathering across centuries, leaving behind rock carvings and settlement sites that tell their stories. Walking through the forest, you can find traces of their presence marked on the landscape.

The visitor center in Santa Fe city offers maps, information, and guidance about conditions in the different sections of the forest. Plan your visit according to seasonal weather changes and road conditions, which can vary significantly by location.

Inside the forest lies the Valles Caldera, a large circular valley created by ancient volcanic eruptions that left behind hot springs and unusual rock formations. This geological feature shows visitors what happens when a volcano collapses on itself.

Location: New Mexico

Inception: July 1, 1915

Operator: United States Forest Service

Address: Los Alamos, NM 87544, USA

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 08:00-16:30

Phone: +15054385300

Website: http://fs.usda.gov/santafe

GPS coordinates: 35.70000,-106.20000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:03