Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area is a unique and stunning landscape located in Northwestern New Mexico, United States. Spanning over 45,000 acres, the wilderness area is renowned for its otherworldly rock formations, hoodoos, and petrified wood. It is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts who are drawn to the area's surreal and ethereal beauty.

The name "Bisti" is derived from the Navajo word "Bistahí," which means "among the adobe formations." "De-Na-Zin" is also a Navajo word meaning "cranes." The area holds a special significance for the Navajo people as it is believed to be the ancestral homeland of the Ashįįhí (Salt People) Clan, who were said to have emerged from the nearby San Juan River.

The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area was formed over 70 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period when the region was a vast inland sea. The area is rich in geologic history and is home to a diverse array of fossil remains, including those of the giant Tyrannosaurus Rex. Today, the landscape is dominated by towering sandstone hoodoos, which have been sculpted by erosion over thousands of years. The rock formations are characterized by their unique shapes and textures, ranging from spires and arches to canyons and pillars.

The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including prairie dogs, lizards, coyotes, and birds. Visitors can explore the wilderness area on foot, following one of the many hiking trails that wind through the landscape. Some of the most popular trails include the Hoodoo Trail, the Alamo Boundary Trail, and the Egg Hatchery Trail. Each trail offers a unique perspective on the area's natural beauty and provides opportunities for visitors to discover hidden gems and secret vistas.

Its surreal landscapes and unique geologic features have made it one of the most popular destinations in the American Southwest. Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area is a testament to the power and beauty of nature. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a casual nature lover, the wilderness area offers a truly unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area is a place of great spiritual significance for the Navajo people, and it is important that visitors to the area respect and honor this cultural heritage. The Navajo Nation has a rich cultural and natural heritage that is closely tied to the land, and it is essential that we all work together to preserve and protect this unique and valuable resource for future generations.

Photos by Riley Russill