Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks

Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks Facts

• The Bureau of Land Management in the United States, in North America, manages the breathtaking Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks. The name means white cliffs in the language of the Native American Pueblo Nation.
• The beautiful Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks became a National Monument in 2001. By special arrangement with the U.S. government, the local Nation oversees the management of the area.
• In 2001, President Jimmy Carter established the region as a U.S. National Monument. The region remains rather remote and only opens to the public during the day, as a matter of public safety.

Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks Formation

The unusual formations comprising the rocks resulted as the byproduct of a series of volcanic eruptions which occurred between 6-7 million years ago. Layers of pumice, ash, and tuft deposited in depths of as much as 1,000 ft (305 m). Later, pyroclastic flows melted these deposits.

Erosion subsequently created the unique structures that now stand there. The oddly shaped pillars range in height from 3-90 ft (0.9-27.4 m). Numerous small canyons and arroyos also run throughout the area.

The entire site rests on the ruggedly beautiful Pajarito Plateau. The area containing the rocks also sits at an altitude that ranges from 5,700-6,400 ft (1,737-1,951 m).

Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks Location and Tourism

The Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks form a unique phenomenon of geology and sit near Cochiti, New Mexico, in the United States. 

A narrow slot canyon also exists adjacent to the formation. A recreation trail roughly 1.2 mi (1.9 km) long runs through it and allows viewing of the spectacular formation from above. A second trail measuring about 1.3 mi (2 km) in length leads past the base.

Many also utilize the region for bird-watching and hiking.

Check out our articles on Spooky Gulch, Red Canyon, Minerva Springs and Terrace, Ringing Rocks