ANGEL PEAK SCENIC AREA

A 40-million-year-old geological formation surrounded by badlands, Angel Peak is the dwelling place of “sacred ones” to the Navajo people. The “Angel” raises its wings over the sculpted and shaded colors of the surrounding high desert. There are overlooks and a short trail to explore, and the scenic area offers primitive camping and picnic areas with grates, tables and vault toilets. Not water or other services are available. Angel Peak is 15 miles south of Bloomfield on Hwy 550 with six miles of gravel road.

CHACO CULTURE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

Chaco canyon was a major regional center of Ancestral Puebloan culture from AD 850 to 1200. The park preserves the impressive remains of the Chacoan great houses, monumental public buildings whose planning and construction spanned hundreds of years. The finely crafted masonry, geometric layout to the buildings, and associated great kivas, earthen mounds and Chacoan “roads” are hallmarks of the magnificent Chacoan culture. Whether you’re here to marvel at the sites or hike and camp in the canyon, you’re sure to be captivated. A visitor’s center and campground are onsite, but no additional services are offered. The visitor’s center is open 8am-5pm; closed on Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year’s days. Hiking trails are open sunrise to sunset year-round. Cost if $8 per car. Camping is $10 per night. Chaco is located 75 miles south on US Hwy 550, with 16 miles of dirt roads that are subject to inclement weather conditions – you may want to call in advance to ensure that the road is passable. Access is via Hwy 550 to CR 7900/7950. PO Box 220 Nageezi, NM 87037, 505 786-7014. Website

NAVAJO LAKE STATE PARK

One hundred fifty miles of beautiful shoreline fed by three rivers (San Juan, Pine, and Piedra) offer a variety of recreational opportunities: camping, picnicking, boating, swimming, water skiing, marinas, and some of the best river and lake fishing in the Southwest. The park is handicap-accessible. Navajo Lake is located 34 miles northeast of Bloomfield on Hwys 550 and 511. 1448 NM Hwy 511-#1, Navajo Dam, NM 87419, 505 632-2278 Website

SALMON RUINS & HERITAGE PARK

One of the largest outlying colonies of Chaco Canyon, Salmon Pueblo was built in the Chacoan architectural style during the 11th century. The museum’s exhibits display prehistoric Anasazi pottery and other fascinating artifacts, such as Navajo and Spanish cultural items. Heritage Park comprises reconstructed dwellings and habitation areas, forming a “timeline of San Juan Basin history.” A picnic area is available. Heritage Park is open daily 8am-5pm; November to March, Sunday hours are noon-5pm. Admission prices are $3 per adult, $2 per senior, $1 per child 6-16, children under 6 free. Locates 2 miles west on Hwy 64. 505 632-20113, email: srmuseum@sisna.com.

WINES OF THE SAN JUAN

Offering tastings every day from ten different wine selections in a rustic tastings room. Open 10am-6pm, Mon-Sat and noon-6pm Sun. East of Bloomfield on Hwy 64 to Hwy 511, 505 632-0879. email: winessanjuan@netscape.net. Website