The area owes its remarkable geology to a layer of volcanic rock and ash that was deposited by a volcanic explosion. Over the millennia, water has eroded this layer creating canyons. The tent rocks themselves are pumice and tuff deposits that have been eroded into conical shapes due to the protection of their erosion-resistant caprocks.
Tent Rocks viewed from Lookout Point
The monument is open for day use only and may be closed by order of the Cochiti Pueblo Tribal Governor. A 1.2 mile (1.9 km) recreation trail leads up through a slot canyon to a lookout point where the tent rocks may be viewed from above. A 1.3 mile (2 km) loop trail leads past their base.
The park is located between 5700 and 6400 feet (1737-1951 m) above sea level.
