Things to See and Do Near Plaza Blanca

The Abiquiu area offers an abundance of natural wonders, historical sites, and outdoor adventures within easy driving distance of Plaza Blanca. From Georgia O'Keeffe's beloved Ghost Ranch to healing hot springs and stunning geological formations, visitors can create a memorable multi-day itinerary exploring this remarkable corner of New Mexico.

Ghost Ranch - 13 Miles North (15 minutes)

Georgia O'Keeffe's Spiritual Home: Now operated by the Presbyterian Church, Ghost Ranch was Georgia O'Keeffe's primary residence and painting location for decades. This 21,000-acre retreat offers visitors the chance to walk in the footsteps of America's most celebrated desert artist. The ranch features two excellent museums - the Florence Hawley Ellis Museum of Anthropology and the Ruth Hall Museum of Paleontology, where you can see fossils of Coelophysis dinosaurs discovered on the property.

Activities Available: Day passes cost $10 and provide access to multiple hiking trails including the popular Chimney Rock Trail (2.6 miles round-trip) and Box Canyon Trail (4 miles). The Welcome Center offers guided landscape tours ($25) and specialized Georgia O'Keeffe painting location tours ($35). For those seeking deeper immersion, overnight accommodations range from cowboy bunkhouses to private houses, with meals available in the on-site cafeteria.

Getting There: Take US-84 north from Abiquiu for 13 miles. The ranch is clearly marked and offers ample parking at the Welcome Center.

Echo Amphitheatre - 35 Miles North (45 minutes)

Nature's Sound Chamber: This remarkable natural formation creates a perfect acoustic amphitheater where visitors can experience true echoes bouncing off the curved sandstone walls. The site offers some of the most dramatic red rock scenery in the region, with towering cliffs and intricate geological formations that rival those found at Plaza Blanca. Learn more about this unique destination on our dedicated Echo Amphitheatre page.

Visitor Information: Located along Highway 84 towards Chama, Echo Amphitheatre features a small parking area with a modest day-use fee ($5). A short 5-minute walk from the parking area leads to the amphitheater itself. The site includes picnic tables and restroom facilities, making it perfect for a scenic lunch stop. Open year-round, though access may be limited during winter snow conditions.

Abiquiu Lake - 5 Miles West (10 minutes)

Water Recreation Paradise: Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Abiquiu Lake provides a refreshing contrast to the desert landscape with its pristine blue waters set against dramatic white limestone cliffs. The 4,400-acre lake offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout, walleye, and bass, making it a favorite destination for anglers throughout the region.

Activities and Amenities: The lake features multiple boat ramps, swimming areas, and developed camping facilities. Visitors can enjoy boating, water skiing, fishing, and hiking along the shoreline trails. The white limestone formations surrounding the lake create stunning photographic opportunities, particularly during golden hour when the cliffs reflect dramatically in the calm waters.

Access: Take Highway 96 west from US-84 just south of Abiquiu. The drive offers spectacular views of the Chama River valley and provides multiple viewpoints for photography and sightseeing.

Ojo Caliente Hot Springs - 45 Miles Southeast (1 hour)

Ancient Healing Waters: One of the oldest health resorts in North America, Ojo Caliente has been welcoming visitors to its natural mineral springs for over 150 years. The resort features multiple spring-fed pools with different mineral compositions, each offering unique therapeutic benefits including lithium, arsenic, iron, and soda springs.

Spa and Accommodation Options: The resort offers day passes for spring access as well as full spa services including massages, body wraps, and facial treatments. Overnight accommodations range from historic inn rooms to modern spa suites. The on-site restaurant serves New Mexican cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Driving Route: From Abiquiu, take US-84 south to Española, then follow US-285 north to Ojo Caliente. The scenic drive passes through traditional Hispanic villages and offers views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Monastery of Christ in the Desert - 24 Miles Southwest (1 hour)

Spiritual Retreat in Remote Canyon: This active Benedictine monastery sits in a spectacular location along the Chama River, accessible only by a 13-mile dirt road through pristine wilderness. The monks welcome visitors for day visits, spiritual retreats, and worship services, offering a unique opportunity for contemplation and spiritual renewal in one of New Mexico's most remote locations.

Visitor Guidelines: Day visitors are welcome during specified hours, and the monastery offers weekend retreats for those seeking deeper spiritual experience (reservations required). The gift shop features items made by the monks, including pottery and religious books. The 13-mile dirt road requires careful driving, particularly during wet weather, but is accessible to most vehicles.

Poshuouinge Pueblo Ruins - 2 Miles South (5 minutes)

Ancient Ancestral Puebloan Site: These 14th-century ruins represent one of the most accessible archaeological sites in the region. The partially excavated pueblo once housed several hundred residents and offers insight into the sophisticated agricultural and social systems of the ancestral Puebloan people.

Visitor Experience: A short interpretive trail leads through the ruins with informational plaques explaining the site's history and significance. The location offers excellent views of the Chama River valley and the same dramatic landscapes that attracted both ancient peoples and modern artists like Georgia O'Keeffe.

Planning Your Nearby Adventures

Recommended Itinerary: For a comprehensive area experience, consider a 2-3 day visit. Start with Ghost Ranch for the O'Keeffe connection and museum visits, then explore Abiquiu Lake for recreation and photography opportunities. Echo Amphitheatre makes an excellent day trip when combined with the scenic drive to Chama. Ojo Caliente is perfect for a relaxing conclusion to active days of hiking and outdoor activities.

Seasonal Considerations: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather for outdoor activities, with comfortable temperatures and minimal precipitation. Summer visits should include early morning starts to avoid afternoon heat, while winter visits may require checking road conditions for higher elevation destinations.

Essential Preparations: Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks for day trips. Many locations have limited services, so fuel up in Abiquiu or Española. Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in remote areas. Always inform someone of your travel plans when venturing into backcountry locations. See our what to wear guide for detailed packing recommendations.