Valley of Dreams, New Mexico, a hidden gem within the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness Study Area, boasts otherworldly landscapes and captivating rock formations. This guide provides detailed directions, hiking tips, and insights into the iconic Alien Throne, ensuring an unforgettable adventure in this unique corner of the American Southwest.
hoodoos in Valley of Dreams New Mexico
Valley of Dreams is a section of the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness Study Area, characterized by its surreal, eroded badlands. This guide focuses specifically on reaching the Alien Throne, a prominent rock formation within the valley, offering practical advice for those with limited time or seeking optimal photography conditions. It will help you navigate the unmarked trails, especially crucial for sunrise, sunset, or Milky Way photography.
Alien Throne in Valley of Dreams New Mexico
This guide concentrates solely on the Valley of Dreams and the Alien Throne, providing specific information and directions relevant to this area within the larger wilderness.
Locating Valley of Dreams
Valley of Dreams is situated in northwestern New Mexico, approximately 70 miles from Farmington and 90 miles from Shiprock. The drive from Albuquerque is around 3 hours via US-550 N, and from Santa Fe, it’s roughly 3 hours and 20 minutes.
sunset over Valley of Dreams New Mexico
Remember: This area, managed by the BLM, lies within Native American lands. Respect local customs, familiarize yourself with tribal regulations, and practice Leave No Trace principles. The area lacks facilities, cell service, and marked trails, so thorough preparation is essential. Bring ample water and sun protection.
Driving Directions from Farmington to Valley of Dreams
Two routes lead to the unofficial Valley of Dreams trailhead from Farmington. Camping near the formations is discouraged as they are on Tribal land.
hoodoos Valley of Dreams
Option 1 (Suitable for those coming from Bisti/De-na-zin):
- Take Road 371 South for 45 miles.
- Turn left onto dirt road 7650 and drive for 8 miles.
- Turn right at the T-intersection onto dirt road 7870.
- Continue for 8 miles, then sharply turn left at the next intersection onto an unmarked road.
- After approximately 1 mile, turn left again. The parking area is near a burned car wreck alongside road 7022. If you reach Road 57, you’ve gone too far.
Option 2 (More Direct from Farmington):
- Drive south on Road 550 for 50 miles to Nageezi.
- Turn right onto Road 7800 after passing the post office.
- Continue for 8 miles, staying left at the T-intersection onto Road 7800.
- After 3 miles, turn left at the T-intersection onto Road 57.
- Drive for 6 miles, passing the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah parking lot.
- After 2.5 miles, turn right onto Road 7870.
- Continue for 1 mile, then turn right at the next crossing.
- After 1.1 miles, make a sharp left turn. The parking area is on the right after 0.3 miles.
Finding the Alien Throne
The Alien Throne is located within Valley of Dreams. The previously mentioned directions lead to the closest accessible point.
Chris hiking Valley of Dreams Loop
GPS Coordinates:
- Latitude: 36.14889° or 36° 8′ 56″ north
- Longitude: -107.98072° or 107° 58′ 51″ west
Height: The Alien Throne stands approximately 9.84 feet (3 meters) tall. Mapcarta and the AllTrails app offer helpful navigation tools.
Hiking to the Alien Throne
While no official trails exist, the Valley of Dreams Loop is a roughly 3.7-mile loop, generally considered easy to moderate. The terrain is mostly flat, with a slight incline leading into the badlands.
hoodoos in Valley of Dreams
Hiking Tips:
- Allow at least 3 hours for the loop, including time for photography.
- Carry plenty of water and wear protective clothing as there’s no shade.
- Be aware of wild horses, which are common in the area. Admire them from a distance.
hiking path to hoodoos
From the trailhead, a faint path leads down into the valley. The route to the Alien Throne is relatively straightforward. The landscape is filled with a variety of fascinating formations, including hoodoos, toadstools, and petrified wood. Remember, climbing or damaging these formations is prohibited. Drones and campfires are also not allowed.
hoodoos in Valley of Dreams
Valley of Dreams offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Its surreal beauty and the iconic Alien Throne make it a must-see destination for adventurers and photographers alike. Plan your trip carefully, respect the land, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of this hidden New Mexican treasure.
