If you are desiring an otherworldly adventure in the American Southwest, look any further than exploring the Bisti Badlands in New Mexico. This unreal landscape is one of the most epic and intriguing places I have been to! The Bisti offers adventurers the chance to explore some of the the most unique geological formations, fossilized remnants , and a raw, rugged beauty. Exploring the Bisti Badlands of New Mexico certainly feels like stepping onto another planet. In this blog, we’ll dive into what makes the Bisti Badlands such a special destination and how to explore it. After reading this, you will know why it should be on every adventurer’s bucket list.
What Are the Bisti Badlands?
Located in the northwest part of New Mexico, the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness is a protected area of over 45,000 acres of barren desert terrain to explore. Renowned for its stunning, bizarre rock formations, fossil beds, and dramatic vistas, this amazing place attracts attention. The Navajo word “Bisti,” meaning “a large area of shale hills,” gave rise to its name, and people often refer to it as the “Badlands” because of its harsh, eroded landscape.
The region was once a lush, subtropical environment during the Cretaceous period, with rivers and swamps populated by dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. Today, it stands as a testament to the passage of time, with layers of sedimentary rock and fossilized remains scattered across the desert floor.
A Geologic Wonderland: Unique Rock Formations
One of the most striking features of the Bisti Badlands is its extraordinary rock formations. The towering hoodoos, spires, mesas, and strange, mushroom-shaped rocks dot the landscape. Erosion has formed these bizarre structures over years, as wind, water, and ice slowly shape the soft sandstone and shale into their current forms.
The Bisti Badlands feature some of the most famous formations, including the “Alien Throne.” This chair-like rock formation appears carved by an unseen hand. Another notable formation is the “Eggs,” a collection of round, egg-shaped rocks that rise from the earth like giant stones scattered across the land. varied shapes and textures of the rocks create a landscape that feels like something straight out of a science fiction movie.
For photographers, exploring the Bisti Badlands offers endless opportunities for stunning shots, with the interplay of light and shadow creating dynamic, ever-changing landscapes. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical, as the soft hues of early morning or late afternoon light bathe the rocks in warm, golden tones.
Fossils and Paleontological Significance
The Bisti Badlands are also known for their rich paleontological history. Fossils of prehistoric creatures, including dinosaurs, reptiles, and ancient plants, have been discovered in the area. The region was once home to a wide variety of life, and the layers of rock here preserve evidence of that ancient ecosystem.
The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness is part of the greater San Juan Basin, a region that has yielded many important paleontological discoveries.Notable fossils in the area include theropod dinosaurs, early crocodilians, and various fish species. These fossils are often found in the soft shale deposits that make up much of the landscape. Many discoveries are still ongoing.
Fossil hunting is prohibited in the wilderness area to protect these treasures. However, visitors can still appreciate the site’s significance. Many fossils are displayed in museums, allowing you to connect with the land’s deep history.
How to Explore the Bisti Badlands
1. Getting There
The Bisti Badlands are located about 35 miles south of the town of Farmington, New Mexico. The closest major city is Albuquerque, which is roughly 180 miles to the southeast. The easiest way to reach the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness is by car, as public transportation options are limited in this remote area. If you are traveling from Farmington New Mexico, the quickest and easiest route is to travel south on NM-371 about 37 miles to road 7297. Follow RD 7297 to the Bisti Badlands Trailhead.
To get to the wilderness from Alburquerque , travel west on  I-40 W to NM-371 N in Thoreau. Follow NM-371 N to Rd-7297. Turn right onto Rd 7297 and follow it to the trailhead parking lot. It well marked with a parking lot and restroom.
There are no established trails within the wilderness, so navigation can be tricky. The Bisti Badlands are remote, so be sure to have sufficient water, food, and supplies for your adventure. Visitors should come prepared with a good map, GPS device, or download offline maps on their phone. Look into a great app like ALLTrails that lets you download maps and use them offline. The link below is a favorite trail in the Bisti Wilderness.
2. Exploring the Bisti Badlands: Best Time to Visit
The best time of year to explore the Bisti Badlands is in the spring and fall. Temperatures in the spring and fall are more moderate and the conditions are generally more favorable for hiking. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). Winter brings cold temperatures and snow, making travel and exploration more difficult.
During your visit to the Bisti, be prepared for extreme conditions: there is no shade, and the terrain can be rough and uneven. Bring plenty of sunscreen, sturdy hiking boots, and protective clothing to stay safe in the harsh desert environment.
3. Things to Do and See
Exploring the Bisti Badlands in New Mexico is an adventure through a natural wonderland. Some of the must-see formations and features include:
- The Bisti Wings: This is an iconic rock formation and a must see if you are at the Bisti.
- The Cracked Eggs: A cluster of round, egg-like rocks that have been shaped by wind and water erosion.
- The Hoodoos: Tall, spindly rock formations that resemble towering pillars, often with caps of harder rock that protect the softer rock beneath.
- The Petrified Logs: Fossilized tree trunks scattered throughout the area that offer a glimpse into the region’s distant past.
In addition to rock formations, the area is also home to stunning desert vistas, rare plants, and wildlife. While hiking, keep an eye out for desert animals like lizards, snakes, and birds of prey. Although the Bisti Badlands are remote and desolate, life still thrives in this harsh environment.
4. Leave No Trace
As with any natural area, it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles during your visit to the Bisti Badlands. Pack it in and Pack it out!! The wilderness is a fragile ecosystem, and the effects of human activity can be long-lasting. Stay on the main routes, pack out all your trash, and avoid disturbing the delicate formations and fossil beds. Do not do any unnecessary climbing on or near any delicate rock features.
Final Thoughts on Exploring the Bisti Badlands
The Bisti Badlands in New Mexico are a hidden gem for adventurers. The area blends stunning natural beauty with a sense of mystery and history. Its bizarre rock formations and fossilized remnants from the age of dinosaurs create an otherworldly landscape.
Whether you’re a photographer, paleontology enthusiast, or desert lover, the Bisti Badlands is a must-see. Pack your gear, plan your visit, and explore this unique region in the American Southwest.
Greg Cathey grew up exploring the Southwest through hunting, fly-fishing, and camping. His childhood sparked a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He earned a degree in Outdoor Leadership from San Juan College and later graduated with honors in Social Psychology from American Military University. Greg worked in the oil and gas industry for nearly two decades and taught middle school history. Greg is a dedicated christian, husband and father of three. He enjoys climbing, hiking, and fly fishing with his family when he is not working.
