While visiting Santa Fe a couple weeks ago, Kim and I drove to nearby St. John’s College, loaded up our gear (mostly water!), and hiked up the 3 3/4 mile trail to top of Atalyala Mountain (about 9140′ elevation).  The early sections winding along sandy, dry creek bottoms provided habitat for wildflowers, and a bit higher, some cottontail rabbits and a mule deer provided wildlife entertainment.  Rock overhangs at the summit afforded a great picnic location with spectacular views over Santa Fe and the high desert plateau.  The brickwork/facade we came across on the descent was an oddity probably resulting from a flash flood some time ago.

Kim looking towards St. John’s College and Santa Fe.  Click photo to view archive.