The Jemez Mountains form the southernmost tip of the Rocky
Mountains and are quite arguably the most beautiful area in the
entire state of New Mexico. Jemez consists of mostly undisturbed
forested wilderness with rocky peaks, meadows, mountain streams,
lakes and waterfalls, and only occasional houses and villages. Past
volcanic activity has resulted in some interesting geological
formations such as multiple hot springs, sulphurous vents and a
picturesque caldera (a ring of hills comprising the remains of
several long-extinct volcanoes).
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. This mountain trail takes
travelers from Albuquerque to Santa Fe via Bernalillo, past the
remainders of the area's logging, mining and ranching heritage, a
variety of Spanish and Indian ruins, the Coronado and Jemez State
Monuments, Los Alamos and neighboring city of White Rock, and the
Bandelier National Monument.
All the caches that we have placed along the JMNSB are at areas
that DO NOT require a day use fee. Additional waypoints have been
added to certain cache descriptions where extra help might be
required to find parking, a trailhead, etc. There are bathrooms
along the entire scenic byway, some of which are in day fee areas.
Use of the toilet facilities does not require you to pay, but if
you are planning to stay longer, then the noted fees will apply.
Please keep in mind that you will find both forest and desert
environments along this trip. You may encounter the typical
animals, poisonous plants, and insects that make these habitats
their home. Please come properly dressed and prepared. For maps and
additional information on this scenic byway, visit
The
Jemez Mountain National Scenic Byway Website.
HOOK, LINE, AND SINKER
Purpose for this cache: Views of the monstrous Battleship
Rock!
This cache is placed at a popular mountain climbing area at
Battleship Rock. Make sure you park at the unmarked lot and not the
Picnic Grounds to avoid the day fees. A waypoint has been included
for parking.
There is a short walk to the cache location along an easy trail.
Restroom facilities are available at the parking lot. Fishing is
allowed, and the area connects up with the Picnic Day Use
facilities. The best photo opportunities can be found at an
included waypoint.
This cache is a small tin container with the