View from La Cueva Overlook (including The Thumb)

One of the most beautiful views in the world, at least as far as I’m concerned. Seeing this requires either a 4.5-mile hike up or a 3.5-mile hike down La Luz and it’s worth every aching muscle. I’m so grateful I was able to do this hike yesterday — especially since I hear the Sandia Wilderness (of which this is a part) will be shutting down in 8 days, due to the high danger of fire.

Soda Dam

Soda Dam, a natural rock formation along the Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway (NM Highway 4).

Aldridge Petroglyph Panel

No doubt an archaeologist would disagree, quite possibly for good reason — but in my eyes, this is one of the best petroglyph panels I’ve ever seen. It’s not that there are so many petroglyphs, or even that I understand what they mean — it’s just that, visually, they look so great on the rock with its mix of colors.

Soda Dam

Soda Dam, along the Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway.

Plaza Blanca

Plaza Blanca, near Abiquiu, is a very amazing natural area.