Car Rental Santa Fe - Exploring Santa Fe

New Mexico is a large state with a wide variety of natural wonders. Visitors should take the opportunity to explore the area around Santa Fe to experience as much of the beauty of the southwest as possible.

The mountains of the Santa Fe National Forest are stunning. Just east of the city, the Peco Wilderness offers trails leading to several 3,657m peaks. Though most trails are closed in the winter, the skiing is excellent at Taos Ski Valley. Cross-country trails are available in the Jemez Mountains and Santa Fe National Forest. Other outdoor sports here include: white-water rafting, fishing, rock climbing and mountain biking.

The Shidoni Foundry gives a fascinating insight into the art and craft of metal sculpting. Eight kilometres north of the city, the foundry’s bronze-casting facilities are famous. Watch artists practicing sand-casting techniques, making ceramic shell moulds, and pouring the molten bronze. There is also a gallery with changing exhibits and a year round outdoor sculpture garden.

Just over 14kms north of Santa Fe, the Tesuque Pueblo Reservation encompasses more than 6,880 hectares of scenic desert landscape, including two wooded areas in the Santa Fe National Forest. Camping and fishing are popular at the local lake and the nearby mountains. For some indoor entertainment, try your luck at Camel Rock Casino, which is run by the Pueblo.

Nambe Pueblo is much more secluded. Located 29kms east of Espanola in an agricultural river valley, the Pueblo is home to about 600 tribal members, and Nambe Falls Recreational Site is in the hills above the Pueblo. Hike to the falls or head to Nambe Reservoir desert lake for fishing and boating.