When you read a C.S. Lewis book, you’re transported to a fantastical world, filled with adventure. There are plenty of spots in New Mexico where your inner explorer can have free rein but Lewis’ magic wardrobe specifically leads to Narnia, a land locked in eternal winter. Thankfully, there aren’t any spots in New Mexico exactly like that! However, we do have plenty of forests that are glorious when frozen and also spectacular during warmer months.
Hyde Memorial State Park is a little overlooked because it’s surrounded by the Santa Fe National Forest. People often drive past it on their way to Ski Santa Fe – a mistake you wouldn’t make if you traveled here by wardrobe!
Tripadvisor/DONNAandJANET
Since the park is at an elevation of 8500 feet, snow blankets the ground in winter.
Tripadvisor/DONNAandJANET
The chilly scenery has its own beauty, which you can appreciate if you snowshoe or cross-country ski through the park.
Tripadvisor/DONNAandJANET Sledding is another popular cold-weather activity.
Thankfully, unlike Narnia, Hyde Memorial doesn’t endure a perpetual winter.
Tripadvisor/Kandy B As the forest thaws, woodland creatures emerge. You’re unlikely to find Tumnus among the trees, but keep an eye out for chipmunks and birds.
The historic lodge is also a popular summer wedding venue. It’s certainly a romantic setting.
Tripadvisor/luv2pole
Hyde Memorial is filled with enchanting scenery. Stand under the aspens and evergreen trees and soak it all in.
Wikimedia Commons/Thomas Shahan
To really explore, hike some of the park’s trails. Start with the easy East Circle Trail.
Flickr/Glenn Marsch
From there, you can branch off onto the Waterfall Trail. The amount of water present varies widely…
Tripadvisor/Will P
…But this remains a magical spot in the forest.
Flickr/S Reilly Alternatively (or additionally) veer off along the Piggyback Trail, which leads to Little Tesuque Creek – there are footbridges you can use to cross back and forth.
Tripadvisor/Ida H Hyde Memorial State Park is located at 740 Hyde Park Road, Santa Fe.
Bonus – no magic needed to get here!
Tripadvisor/DONNAandJANET
Sledding is another popular cold-weather activity.
Tripadvisor/Kandy B
As the forest thaws, woodland creatures emerge. You’re unlikely to find Tumnus among the trees, but keep an eye out for chipmunks and birds.
Tripadvisor/luv2pole
Wikimedia Commons/Thomas Shahan
Flickr/Glenn Marsch
Tripadvisor/Will P
Flickr/S Reilly
Alternatively (or additionally) veer off along the Piggyback Trail, which leads to Little Tesuque Creek – there are footbridges you can use to cross back and forth.
Tripadvisor/Ida H
Hyde Memorial State Park is located at 740 Hyde Park Road, Santa Fe.
You may also enjoy these other under-appreciated New Mexico state parks.
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