Visit Nambe Falls New Mexico
Enjoy the Nambe Pueblo’s Stunning Waterfalls Near Santa Fe
by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 11/28/2024
Nambe Falls, NM Map
Nambe Falls is a picturesque waterfall located just 16 miles north of Santa Fe, New Mexico located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The waterfall is about 120 ft tall and cascades gracefully over rugged cliffs.
The Nambe Pueblo is one of the six Tewa-speaking Pueblos located in northern New Mexico. Nambe Falls is considered a sacred site by the Nambe Pueblo. It is part of the traditional lands that hold spiritual and cultural importance for the community. The Nambe Pueblo people have historically used the area around the falls for ceremonial purposes and as a natural resource. The Nambe Pueblo manages and protects Nambe Falls to preserve its natural beauty and cultural significance. They oversee visitor access and conservation efforts to ensure that the site remains a respected and cherished part of their heritage
We visited during our stay in Santa Fe while doing a roadtrip in New Mexico and Arizona. It was fun to get out of town and take a hike off of the beaten path.
WARNING: The per-carload entrance fee is $20 in cash only. If you plan to fish, the fee is $18 per person with a 5 fish bag limit. You should visit the Nambe Recreation Area Website for more information.
Hiking Trails at Nambe Falls
There are two distinct hiking trails leading to different perspectives of the falls, visitors can choose to experience the powerful rush from the bottom or enjoy a panoramic view from the top.
The hike to the top of Nambe Falls is about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) round-trip. The elevation change is approximately 800 feet (244 meters) from the trailhead to the top of the falls. The trail can be steep and rugged, so it’s recommended for those with a moderate level of fitness and hiking experience. Take it slow and you will be fine. It’s not ideal for those with a fear of heights.
The trail to the bottom of Nambe Falls is about 0.75 miles (1.2 kilometers) round-trip. This trail provides a closer view of the falls and is generally considered easier than the hike to the top, though it can still be somewhat challenging due to the terrain. When we visited in May the water was high and there were spots where you had to wade in the water which was rushing pretty quickly or climb over rocks to avoid the water. We weren’t able to complete the lower trail due to this but many young people and families plotted their path and tackled the challenge.
As you can see above in image # 4, the 56 acre Nambe Recreation Lake sits behind the dam and is stocked with rainbow and cutthroat trout and seems to be a popular fishing spot as we saw a lot of people there fishing. After we finished our hike up to the dam, we drove up to the lake area and explored for a few minutes. There were quite a few people fishing, but there is a number of good places to park.
Nambe Falls Reservoir
Nambe Lake is located a short distance from Nambe Falls and is part of the Nambe Pueblo lands. It lies in a scenic area surrounded by the rugged terrain of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It is an artificial lake created by the Nambe Falls Dam and is fed by the Rio Nambe.
Recreational Activities at Nambe Falls Reservoir:
- Fishing: Nambe Lake is stocked with various fish species, including trout, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
- Boating: Non-motorized boats are allowed on the lake, providing opportunities for peaceful paddling and scenic views.
- Picnicking and Hiking: The area around the lake features picnic areas and trails, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Visitor Information for Nambe Falls and Nambe Falls Reservoir
What are the hours of operation for Nambe Falls?
Thursday through Monday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Check their website for more info, other information and/or changes in hours.
What does it cost to visit Nambe Falls?
It costs $20 per day per car. They only accept CASH!. They have other fees for fishing and renting watercraft, etc when visiting the lake area. Check their website for up to date rates.
Where is Nambe Falls?
- Address: Nambe Falls Recreation Area, County Road 114, Santa Fe, NM 87506
- Coordinates: Approximately 35.8943° N latitude and 105.9276° W longitude
- How far is Nambe Falls from Santa Fe: About 16 miles north, roughly a 30-minute drive
- How far is Nambe Falls from Espanola: About 12 miles southeast, roughly a 20-minute drive
- How far is Nambe Falls from Taos: About 60 miles southwest, roughly a 1.5-hour drive
- How far is Nambe Falls from Albuquerque: About 89 miles southwest, roughly a 1.5-hour drive
Is Food Available at Nambe Falls?
The Ranger Station has water, soda, snacks and ice for sale, there is nothing else, so you should bring your own water and food.
When is the best time to visit Nambe Falls?
- Spring (March to May): Spring is a wonderful time to visit as the weather is generally mild, and the waterfalls are often at their fullest due to snowmelt. Wildflowers begin to bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. However, some trails may still be muddy from melting snow, so be prepared for potentially wet conditions.
- Summer (June to August): Summer offers warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for hiking and exploring. The trails are usually dry and accessible. This is the peak tourist season, so you might encounter more visitors. Also, temperatures can be quite warm, especially in lower elevations.
- Fall (September to November): Fall provides cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage, enhancing the scenic beauty of the area. The trails are less crowded compared to summer.
Can you swim in Nambe Lake?
Yes, you can swim in the Nambe Falls Reservoir in New Mexico. There are numerous accounts of people swimming there on Google, and there is no restriction listed on the Nambe Pueblo Website.
More Info for Nambe Falls, NM
- Nambe Falls Wikipedia Article
- Our Nambe Falls Image Gallery
- Nambe Falls Google Images Set
- Nambe Falls Google Map
- Nambe Falls & Recreation Area Website
- See what others have said about Nambe Falls: oogle Reviews
- Our Youtube Channel
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- Old-Town Albuquerque
- National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
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