The Jemez Mountains, Central New Mexico

The Jemez Mountains form the southernmost tip of the Rocky Mountains which stretch over 2,000 miles north into Canada. They contain no great natural landmarks, just a large area of mostly undisturbed forested wilderness, with rocky peaks, meadows, mountain streams, lakes and waterfalls, and only occasional houses and villages. More unusual features result from past volcanic activity - there are hot springs, sulphurous vents and a caldera - a ring of hills comprising the remains of several long-extinct volcanoes.

A leisurely day trip on the Jemez Mountain Trail takes you past amazing geological formations, ancient Indian ruins, an Indian pueblo, and the remainders of the area's logging, mining and ranching heritage. Much of the region is now a National Recreation Area with many opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, cross-country skiing, or visiting a natural hot springs.