The History Of Tent Rocks National Monument

A little more than two decades ago, most people didn't know what "Tent Rocks" were in New Mexico. But after the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument was put on the map in 2001, the site became one of the most popular hiking and outdoor recreation spots in the state - a major tourism draw.

Three years after the COVID-19 pandemic started, the Tent Rocks monument still remains closed. The BLM has in part cited continuing concerns related to resource protection, staffing, and visitation levels.

This week, we're getting into the historical significance, and the recent problems with over-visitation in an extended conversation with someone who helped document the significance of the monument. Geologist and UNM Professor Dr. Gary Smith joins the conversation, recounting his first trips to study the area and the eventual designation of the National Monument. When might it reopen? How problematic has over-visitation been at the site? 

Let us know what you think about this podcast and other episodes. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts.