Tips for Visiting Santa Fe

High Altitude

Santa Fe is situated at an elevation of 7,000 feet (2,133 meters), with many of our hikes starting at higher elevations. We recommend that visitors acclimatize: allow yourself a day or two to get used to the altitude and keep yourself properly hydrated, drinking plenty of water and avoiding excessive intake of alcohol and tobacco.  Not everyone will feel the effects of the high altitudes, but a few visitors will experience nausea or lightheadedness, and headaches. Know yourself, give your body time to adjust, and never over exert yourself.

Weather

Santa Fe is known for its abundant sunshine and low humidity. We proudly claim to average more than 300 days of sunshine per year. In the summer months, daytime temperatures range from 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) to highs that range in the mid 80s to mid 90s°F (30-35°C) . Be aware that, even on days when the temperatures are in the 70s, the sun can be brutal. Wear a hat and sunscreen, bring your sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids. Summer nights are cool in the high country and temperatures can sometimes drop to the low 50s (10°C); bring a light jacket or sweater in case it’s needed.

In the winter, temperatures range from a low of 14°F (-10°C) to a high of 40°F (4°C). The winter of 2008 saw heavier snowfall than usual, particularly up in the Santa Fe Ski Basin, but the city itself has an average of 32 inches of snow each year.

Clothing/Outdoor Gear

It’s much more enjoyable being outdoors if you have the appropriate gear so here are some items we recommend you have:

• Comfortable walking shoes, preferably hiking boots, and thick socks.
• Lightweight t-shirts – it’s best to bring non-cotton layers
• Sweatshirt or jacket for early morning and evening hikes
• Rain gear for the July and August thunderstorms
• Sunscreen/sunblock and lip balm

Resources/Links

Need some help getting information about Santa Fe, New Mexico?  Here are some useful links:

Santa Fe Selection – travel guide and concierge to the Authentic Santa Fe

Tourism Santa Fe – The Official Travel Site, Santa Fe, NM

New Mexico Department of Tourism – True New Mexico Adventures

The City of Santa Fe – Current information about the city for residents and visitors

Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce – a resource about the Santa Fe community