Area Description
Nestled atop the stunning Glorieta Mesa in northern New Mexico, the Crystal Mesa Conservancy enjoys dramatic views and a shaded, sheltered environment. A site of historic and geologic significance within 45 minutes of downtown Santa Fe, its towering trees and varied elevations offer an expansive retreat and living experience. Oriented to the Pecos River Valley below and the mountainous wilderness comprising much of its scenic northern vistas, the area has played a long and significant role in the prehistory, history, and archeology of the American Southwest.
Crystal Mesa Conservancy crowns one of the largest quartz-based mesa structures in North America. Rising over 8000 feet in elevation, the Glorieta-Rowe Mesa extends miles to the south from the Conservancy site. It overlooks to the north the base of the Sangre de Cristos at the southern emergence of the Rocky Mountains, which extend all the way into Canada. A primarily woodland environment, lovely stands of ponderosa and piñon pine are interspersed with upland sagebrush, brush oak and wildflower meadows. Deer, bear, mountain lion, and bobcat are at home on this secluded mesa, while eagles, ravens, owls, hawks, hummingbirds and songbirds circle above.
Site of Rare Historic, Geologic and Energetic Significance
Considered to have long served as a place of pilgrimage for indigenous peoples, the Mesa presents a rare convergence of geologic and energetic features affording connection to other places of power on planet and beyond.
Four Season Nature Lovers Paradise
Located in the sub-alpine region of Northern New Mexico, The Conservancy celebrates a true four season climate. Temperate summers, mild winters and bright springs and falls support immersive time in nature all year round.
Cultural Mecca of Santa Fe
Crystal Mesa Conservancy is a scenic 45 minute drive from beautiful and engaging Santa Fe, New Mexico. Appreciated for a sophisticated art, architectural and cultural milieu, Santa Fe became the first US city to be chosen by UNESCO as a Creative City, and is one of only nine cities in the world to hold this designation.
A Historical Crossroads
The Conservancy overlooks far below what was once the largest Indian pueblo in the Southwest, its remnants preserved in the Pecos National Historic Park.
National Forest Wonderlands
Located a few minutes from The Conservancy and beautifully filling the panoramic vista from the Mesa, the Pecos National Wilderness is considered by many a hidden gem and one of the premier backpacking destinations in New Mexico — and perhaps all of the West.
