Pecos National Historical Park

Interested in history? Head for Pecos National Historical Park about a half-hour east of Santa Fe. The Cicuye Pueblo (named "Pecos" by the Spanish), lived here from 1,100 A.D. to the 1830s. It was an important trading site between the Pueblo people and Plains Indians. Stop at the Visitors Center to pick up a trail guide and watch the 12-minute film before embarking on the 1.2-mile loop trail that takes you through the remains of this once great pueblo. There are two reconstructed kivas to climb into and ruins of the Pecos Pueblo Mission Church. Walk the 2.3-mile Civil War Battle of Glorieta Pass trail (a short drive away). Ask the ranger for directions and the gate code. On Sundays, you can tour Forked Lightening Ranch. Advance reservations are suggested as tours can fill up. There is an admission charge to the site.