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Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument is at three remote locations near Albuquerque. These structures were constructed in the early 1600s and continued to be used until about 1673, when disease, drought, famine, and Apache raiding led to their abandonment. You can also see structures built in about 1773 when Spaniards tried to return to the area as sheep farmers. Tour these sites and learn more about the culture of the people who thrived in these locations. This national monument's headquarters is in Mountainair, New Mexico. 

Things to Do

Things To Do Near Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

Start your adventure by exploring Mound 7 at the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument Gran Quivira unit, which is the largest of the three units and contains the only fully excavated pueblo at this national monument. The pueblo dating from about 1550 is likely the spot where the residents met Don Antonio de Espejo, the first Spaniard to colonize the area in 1580. Then, move on to see the ruins of the mission at Quarai, constructed in 1627. Stop at the Abó unit, where you will want to see the Reoccupation Structures lying south and east of the mission ruins. These structures are the youngest at this site; ranchers constructed them in about 1815 when sheep ranching in this area. 

Hiking Trails

Sightseeing

Museums

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

map-marker-alt-regular How to Get There

How To Get To Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument is divided into three different sites. Consider starting your visit at the Gran Quivira Visitor Center. Get there from Socorro by taking Interstate 25 North. Get off at Exit 175, and merge onto US 60 East. Turn right onto New Mexico 56 South. Continue straight to get on State Route 41. Turn left onto Ripley Avenue, and the site will be on your right. 

Address

Gran Quivira Visitor Center, 105 S Ripley Ave, Mountainair, New Mexico 87036 

Fee: Entry fee $0

Learn more about the earliest residents of New Mexico by visiting Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. You will love exploring this remote area and seeing the ruins of this early civilization. Since these sites are in extremely remote locations, the best way to explore them is in your RV.