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. The 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 spring. 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.
Just a Dot
Purpose of this cache: Breathtaking views of the canyon and Rio Grande!
This cache is located near the trailhead for the Red Dot Trail, which is a short walk from the parking area. The walk is on flat ground and is very easy. Please note that this trail is a public access trail, but does travel past neighborhood homes. One home near the trail has a barking dog within about 20-30 ft of the trail. We've walked it several times with no problems, he just likes to make noise.
The views are amazing! (check out the cache gallery) The trail traverses the canyon down to the Rio Grande below. It can get a bit windy up there, so an extra layer in the colder season might be a good idea. And, since this is along a cliffside, please be careful if you are toting along the kids.
Access the cache from State Rd. 4. Going either direction on State Rd 4, turn onto Piedra Loop (road only goes one direction). Parking is off of Piedra Loop at the included waypoint. Please take care when rehiding the cache as it's a well traveled trail. This cache is a small lock-n-lock type container.