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Abiquiú Resevoir Abiquiú Village Chimayó Village Christ in the Desert Monastery Cumbres & Toltec Railroad Dar al Islam Mosque Echo Ampitheater El Rito Los Luceros Los Ojos Ojo Caliente Santa Fe Tierra Wools
On-Site Ghost Ranch Activities
Bodywork Program
Why not experience a massage or spa treatment while you are at Ghost Ranch? Whether you are a hesitant first-timer or a bodywork connoisseur, a session will compliment your other activities. Nationally certified, licensed massage therapists are available daily. Bodywork sessions are typically 60 - 75 minutes for $75.00 ($25.00 deposit required). See the Ghost Ranch Office for more information and to schedule an appointment.
Horseback Riding
Rides are available at an hourly fee; cowpoke rides are also available for children. Reservations can be made at the front desk and are payable at that time. Call for current pricing. 505.685.4333 ext. 0. Please note: On weeks that horse courses are offered, there will be limited morning rides. On days with extremely high temperatures the wrangler determines if there will be cowpoke rides.
Box Canyon Hike
The Box Canyon Trail is the most accessible trail for the majority of Ghost Ranch visitors. This trail is pretty level and provides some shade along your trek. View this stunning and popular Ghost Ranch hike. There are trees along the way so hikers are not totally exposed during this hike. The trail begins at Long House, passes the upper irrigation pod and follows the Yeso Canyon stream to the end. A rock fall in recent years blocked the path at the upper end, so you need to climb over the rocks to get to the basin at the end. Box Canyon Hike is approximately 4 miles round trip with a trail time of about three hours round-trip. CAUTION: Flash floods possible!
Kitchen Mesa Hike
Kitchen Mesa, a trek to the top of the mesa behind the Dining Hall, is one of the more difficult trails at Ghost Ranch. This hike involves some climbing. The marked trail begins just past Long House and goes up past the site of the quarry where the dinosaur remains were discovered. Remember, you can always just hike the first part of this trail as it is easy and well worth it. The last ascent to the top of the mesa is a difficult climb so make sure you are up to the challenge and take a friend or two with you. Follow the painted green tin cans and arrows along the way. The Kitchen Mesa Hike is approximately 4 miles or 3 hours round-trip. CAUTION: Steep and some rock climbing required. Beware of lightening storms and occasional rattle snakes!
Chimney Rock Hike
Chimney Rock Trail is the most popular Ghost Ranch hike. The panoramic view of the Abiquiu Reservoir, flat-topped Cerro Pedernal towering above the lake, the Jemez mountains to the left of Cerro Pederal, the Chama River Valley between the mountians and Ghost Ranch, and the mesa and canyon topography that surrounds the valley on all sides makes this a hike worth taking! From the front of Corral Block and behind Lower Pavilion and museums, cross arroyo, open gate and follow trail leading up the mountain. A geological trail guide is available in the Ghost Ranch Trading Post and museums. Not too difficult. Approximately 2 miles or 1.5 hours round trip. CAUTION: This trail provides NO shade along your trek and part of this hike has a steep drop off. Especially observe caution around the edges.
Living Museum Nature Trail
Follow entrance road to the corner by the High Desert Research Farm; do not turn corner, but continue on dead end road. There is a chain across the road, just beyond the farm. The marked trail begins on the left approximately 500 yards from the chain. Follow the marker-stakes across desert and suspension bridge over Arroyo Seco. Guide is available in the Trading Post. Approximately 2 miles.
Ghost Ranch Nature Trail
Guide available in the Trading Post. Trail begins behind Convocation Hall. Follow signs and map in guide. Trail ends in front of Headquarters. Easy walk. Approximately 30 - 45 minutes.
Paleontology Museum
The Anthropology and Paleontology museums are located just west of the Lower Pavilion on the grounds of Ghost Ranch. The Museum shop offers quality pottery and jewelry, along with paleo and archaeology logo items and other gift items from local craftspersons.
The Labyrinth
Designed on the Chartres model, a one-half mile circular path for prayer, meditation, and reflection was a gift to the Ranch in 1998. It is located between the Dining hall and the Long House above the arroyo. Labyrinth brochures are available at the front desk.
Ghost Ranch Library
As an educational institution, Ghost Ranch Abiquiu has always had a Library, ever since the Ranch became the property of the Presbyterian Church in 1955. Today, the Library, which is open 24 hours a day, is a quiet, comfortable center for reading and study, located in a fine old adobe building just across from the Dining Hall. The Library now has over 16,000 volumes, organized by the Library of Congress cataloging system. Collections focus on program areas of the Ranch, but there is also a large leisure reading collection of American, English and Spanish literature. Other notable subject areas in the collection include a Southwest research collection, Religion (which includes most current books published by Westminster/John Knox Press), Art (especially books on watercolor technique), Current Santa Fe and Albuquerque newspapers, plus a representative collection of popular magazines in religion and current affairs. The Library also maintains a "Paperback Book Exchange". Guests may take any of the paperback fiction books they want from this collection. We also hope that guests will leave paperbacks, which they no longer need, for others to read.
Georgia O'Keeffe and the Ghost Ranch Landscape Tour
A guided tour of the area she loved, explored, painted and lived in for over 50 years at Ghost Ranch. Tours are $20 at 2:00pm Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday weather permitting. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED through the Ghost Ranch office. Note: The tour does not include a visit to the Georgia O'Keeffe home at Ghost Ranch. That house is on private property and is not open to the public.
More information also is available at www.ghostranch.org.
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Off-Site Ghost Ranch Activities
Abiquiú Reservoir
Abiquiú Reservoir/Dam was constructed in 1963 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Abiquiú Lake now covers about 2,000 acres of former Ghost Ranch land. This is the second of three dams constructed on the Chama River watershed between 1935 and 1972. The lake has recreation facilities for picnicking, walking, swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing and camping. This 4000-acre lake with camping at Riana Campground includes excellent facilities surrounded by red sandstone cliffs and mesas.
Abiquiú Village
The Abiquiú Village was settled following a 1754 Spanish land grant to Hispanicized Indians (Genizaros) and was a frontier settlement for more than 80 years. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Abiquiú was a center of trade for Plains and Pueblo Indians, and a point of departure for those traveling along the northern Spanish Trail to Spanish settlements in California. A Catholic church built by the community in the 1930's has become the Plaza's centerpiece. Santa Rosa de Abiquiú: This site is off US Highway 84 just south of Abiquiú. The ruins are the remnants of the original Spanish settlement. Santa Rosa de Abiquiú was built in the 1730's, abandoned in 1748 because of Indian raids, resettled in 1750, and again abandoned when the population moved into the Genizaro pueblo (current Abiquiú pueblo). Photo Instructions: Remember the Abiquiú Village is located on private land similar to an Indian Pueblo so please follow pueblo etiquette and do not take photographs of people or buildings without obtaining permission first. Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) Approximately 12.5 miles south of Ghost Ranch. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) To get there from Ghost Ranch, turn left at Ghost Ranch gate onto HWY 84 and head south for approximately 12.5 miles.
Return To Top of PageChimayó
This tiny village was established after the Spanish reconquest of New Mexico in 1680. Historically, Chimayó was founded as a penal colony for the Spanish empire. The word chimayó means "good flaking stone" and refers to the abundant supply of volcanic obsidian glass in the area. It is also the location of El Sanctuario (The Shrine) de Chimayó, a small adobe church noted for the healing power of its dirt. Chimayó is home to many traditional weavers with roots deep in old Spanish Colonial New Mexico for over 300 years. The drive from Santa Fe to Chimayó is filled with scenic rolling mesas and copper-colored hills. Pilgrims make their walk to El Santuario de Chimayó every year during Holy Week in New Mexico. El Santuario de Chimayó - Originally a private chapel, constructed from 1814 to 1816, it was bought by a private group in 1929 and turned over to the Archdiocese of Santa Fe. It is noted for the healing powers of the "Tierra Bendita" (sacred earth). This adobe church was designated as a "National Historic Landmark" in 1970 by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) Approximately 45 miles south of Ghost Ranch. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) Turn left at the Ghost Ranch gate onto US Highway 84 and head south to Route 76. Chimayó is 7 miles east of Española. High in the foothills of the Sangre de Christo Mountains, El Santuario de Chimayó is one mile south of the intersection of Highways 76 & 520.
Christ in the Desert Monastery
This Benedictine Abbey is located in a beautiful and isolated spot on the Chama River. The road is not totally maintained, and is often impassable after snow or rain storms. No shorts or bare shoulders in the chapel, refectory or guesthouse area, please. And please be aware too that there are places of strict silence such as the chapel, the sacristy and the entire convento (the building next to the chapel). The monks practice the Benedictine life of prayer, reading, and manual labor which now also includes a beautiful scriptorium on their web site www.christdesert.org. Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) 15 miles northwest of Ghost Ranch, however, because of the road it takes about 50-60 minutes to drive on a good day. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) Turn right at Ghost Ranch gate onto Hwy 84 for about 2.5 miles. Turn left on Rd 151. Continue on the dirt road for another 13 miles.
Cumbres and Toltec Railroad
Built 125 years ago and little changed since, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a 64-mile, fully operational steam railroad jointly owned by the states of Colorado and New Mexico. The C&TS is recognized around the world for its spectacular scenery and unspoiled vistas, as well as the historic rolling stock and railroad structures that are preserved on the line. Many of the buildings and much of the railroad equipment date to the turn of the twentieth century or earlier, making the C&TS the best preserved steam era railroad in North America. All trains stop for lunch (included in the fare) at Osier, Colorado, roughly the mid-point of the railroad. Reservations and Purchasing Tickets: You can purchase tickets via the CT&S secure web site www.cumbrestoltec.com, or by calling 1-888-CUMBRES (1-888-286-2737). We recommend that you make your reservations early-at least two weeks in advance. By purchasing ahead of time, they can mail your tickets so that you can avoid lines at the ticket counter. If you do plan to buy your tickets at one of the stations, please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m.
Dar Al Islam Mosque
Dar al Islam is dedicated to the betterment of our society, and strives to achieve its purpose through education in the broadest sense, through cooperation and networking, and through programs which benefit both Muslim and non-Muslim people of North America. Founded 20 years ago, Dar al Islam built the North African-style mosque and attached madressa, or school, with the dream of starting a model village showcasing Islam in America. The Dar al Islam Mosque and Madressa were constructed in the early 1980's, this large training and worship structure contains a school, a library complex, elaborate prayer rooms and living quarters. Location: Rio Arriba, US Highway 84, 18 miles NW of Española. Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) Approximately 18 miles south of Ghost Ranch. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) Turn left at Ghost Ranch gate onto Highway 84, drive south about 12 miles. A little ways past the Abiquiú Elementary School, turn left on County Road 155 and follow the unpaved road for about 2 miles until you come to the overhead Dar al Islam main entrance sign on your left. Then continue up to the mosque. Visitors are welcome, but advance arrangements are advised 505-685-4515. Visit www.daralislam.org.
Echo Ampitheater
This National Forest Service facility includes a short hiking trail, a picnic area and camping site. The sandstone walls provide a resonance that is well worth the trip. A geologic display explains the various formations in the cliffs. A ten-minute walk from the parking area leads you to this 'theater' naturally hollowed out of sandstone by ages of erosion. The concave sandsone cliffs create ever lasting echos. Location: Rio Arriba, US Highway 84, 17 miles NW of Abiquiú Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) Approximately 4 miles North of Ghost Ranch. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) Turn right at Ghost Ranch gate onto Highway 84 and drive approximately 5 miles north.
El Rito
The village of El Rito is an oasis in the beautiful, high desert country of northern New Mexico. El Rito is surrounded by mountains and borders the vast Carson National Forest. Because of the unique tricultural history of El Rito, the Northen New Mexico Community College El Rito Campus offers a number of innovative programs that showcase the rich cultural resources found only in this part of New Mexico. El Rito artists include pottery, painting, tin, sculpture, printmaking and weaving. Location: Rio Arriba, US Highway 84, on 554; 18 miles NW of Española, 15 miles NW of Ojo Caliente Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) Approximately 28 miles south of Ghost Ranch. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) Turn left at Ghost Ranch gate onto Hwy 84, drive 16 miles South to Rt 554. Make a left turn on Rt 554. Continue for 12 miles to town of El Rito.
El Rito is also the home of the El Farolito Restaurant, featured on American Public Media's The Splendid Table.
Los Luceros
The centerpiece of Historic Los Luceros is the elegant Casa Grande. Constructed in the 1800's, this beautiful home was owned by Mary Cabot Wheelwright from 1923 to 1958. Furnishings in the Casa Grande are representative of the Wheelwright era. Listed on New Mexico's Register of Cultural Properties and the National Register of Historic Places, this 140 acre site brings to life the important link between the natural beauty of the Rio Grande Valley and the diverse cultures that contribute to its rich history. Open 10a - 4pm, $5 per person, also a Café and artists' gallery. Location: Near Alcalde, New Mexico, 8 miles north of Espanola on Hwy 68 then left on county road 0048. For more information call 505-852-1895.
Los Luceros Winery is a classic example of the past, present, and future all co-existing in the same space. The winery is located in one of the oldest viticultural sites in North America. Don Juan de Oñate brought settlers to the Los Luceros area in 1598 (over 4 centuries ago!). He reportedly brought grapevines with him, although it's unlikely they were well suited to the cool climate of northern New Mexico. The winery building, which is the second straw-bale winery in the country, is of special interest. Please call ahead for hours of opening and/or appointment (505-852-1085). www.nmwine.com/wineries/losluceros.htm
Return To Top of PageLos Ojos
Los Ojos, meaning "the springs" is located near the base of the Los Brazos cliffs. The historic Los Ojos Village, known for its distinct blend of Victorian and traditional adobe architecture and its community effort to revitalize the local economy through the development of agricultural based, culturally valued enterprises, has much to offer visitors. Watch the process of mat-making at Otra Vuelta, or view prints, photographs & paintings at Yellow Earth Gallery. Be sure to Take the opportunity to step into the tranquillity of San Jose Church, which is over 100 years old. Commercial ventures include Pastores General Store, Otra Vuelta Tire Recycling, and Tierra Wools, a weavers' collaborative (see below). Members of Ganados often teach Ghost Ranch seminars featuring traditional arts. Location: Rio Arriba, fifteen miles south of Chama and five miles north of Tierra Amarilla, just west of US Highway 84. Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) Los Ojos is approximately 32 miles north of Ghost Ranch. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) Turn right at Ghost Ranch gate onto US Hwy 84 for about 30 miles north. Turn left at State Road 112 and make an immediate right. Continue down hill to the town of Los Ojos.
Ojo Caliente
One of the oldest health resorts in North America, Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs is the only natural hot springs in the world with the remarkable combination of four geothermal mineral waters. Once considered sacred by the ancestors of today's Tewa tribes, these ancient peoples built their Pueblo overlooking the springs. Posi or Poseuinge, "village at the place of the green bubbling hot springs" was home to thousands of people. Today, Ojo Caliente offers a peaceful, unpretentious atmosphere. Step out of the stresses of everyday life and discover the healing nature that has made these waters legendary. Relax, rejuvenate, enjoy! Location: Rio Arriba, Taos; US Highway 285, 26 miles north of Española Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) Approximately 50 miles southeast of Ghost Ranch. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) Turn left at Ghost Ranch gate onto Hwy 84, for about 27 miles until you see a sign for Route 285, turn left. Continue for about another 20 miles. The Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs sign is on left side. Prices and additional information is available at www.ojocalientespa.com.
Santa Fe
The full name of Santa Fe, the location of New Mexico's state capital, is "La Villa Real de la Santa Fe de San Francisco de Asis," or "The Royal City of the Holy Faith of Saint Francis of Assisi." Santa Fe, which means "Holy Faith," was founded in 1607 (the second oldest town in the U.S.) and joined the United States of America in 1912. It is well know that Santa Fe is rich in art, architecture and history. The city is one of the largest art markets in the world, with hundreds of art galleries and many museums. Outside New Mexico most are surprised to discover Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the United States. Location: Santa Fe, state capital; on US Highway 84, 85, 285, and I-25, 20 miles E of Rio Grande. Santa Fe is 7,000 feet above sea level, and lies at the base of the Sangre de Criso mountains. The Santa Fe National Forest includes the Dome Wilderness, the San Pedro Parks Wilderness, the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, and the huge Pecos Wilderness in the Sangre de Cristos. Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) Approximately 50 miles southeast of Ghost Ranch. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) To get there from Ghost Ranch, turn left at Ghost Ranch gate onto HWY 84 and head southeast following the highway signs for approximately 50 miles. Visit www.santefe.org.
Tierra Wools
Tierra Wools is a spinning, hand dyeing, and hand weaving workshop and a retail store. They buy local wool, wash it, spin it, and weave the yarn into beautiful weavings which are sold from their workshop in Los Ojos, a small village in the Chama Valley of northern New Mexico (see above). The enterprise is operated by Los Ojos Handweavers, LLC, a limited liability company owned by the growers, washers, spinners and hand weavers that produce its goods, as well as supporting investors. Many of the weavers of Tierra Wools descend from Spanish immigrants who settled in the Rio Grande Valley as early as the 16th century, with latter waves of immigrants from Spain and Mexico. Sheep raising was the economic mainstay of these settlers and the textiles produced by them were called "Rio Grande blankets." This weaving style was influenced by a mix of Spanish, Mexican and Indian designs, and characterized by the use of stripes and bands, saltillo diamonds (diamond pattern usually in center of weaving), and Vallero stars (six pointed star). Distance: (from Ghost Ranch) Tierra wools is in Los Ojos which is approximately 32 miles north of Ghost Ranch. Directions: (from Ghost Ranch) Turn right at Ghost Ranch gate onto US Hwy 84 for about 30 miles north. Turn left at State Road 112 and make an immediate right. Continue down hill to the town of Los Ojos. Visit www.handweavers.com.
Book Sources: Valley of Shining Stone, Lesley Poling-Kempes, © 1997 by the University of Arizona Press. This valuable book tells the story and history of Abiquiú, Georgia O'Keeffe in Abiquiú, the Chama Valley, and Piedra Lumbre (Shining Stone) from prehispanic days through the present.
Explore more information and suggestions from www.newmexico.org (official New Mexico tourism site), www.digitalabiquiu.com (excellent resource for local activities) or www.abiquiustudiotour.org (includes local artists directory and links to on-line galleries).
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To sponsor and promote an annual event of one week's duration for the purpose of creating a community born of Unitarian Universalist values where earth-centered awareness cultivates the celebration of diversity. The event will facilitate the individual and community's spiritual journey by providing workshops and outdoor activities. |