New Mexico, a land steeped in history and vibrant culture, is home to a rich tapestry of Native American heritage. Within its borders lie 19 distinct pueblos and three Indian reservations, each offering a unique glimpse into the traditions, artistry, and resilience of its people. This article delves into the heart of these communities, providing informative descriptions of their locations, history, cultural practices, and opportunities for visitors to respectfully experience their heritage.
Indian Reservations of New Mexico
Three federally recognized Indian reservations grace the landscape of New Mexico, each governed by its own tribal council and possessing a distinct cultural identity.
Jicarilla Apache Reservation
Pronounced "hee-cah-REE-ah," the Jicarilla Apache Reservation sprawls across a vast expanse of 742,000 acres in northern New Mexico, bordering Colorado. Established through a series of executive orders dating back to 1874, the reservation is home to the Jicarilla Apache Tribe. The landscape is a dramatic blend of mountain ranges, sagebrush flats, and deep mesa canyons.
The tribal headquarters are located in Dulce, approximately 28 miles west of Chama on US-64. The reservation is readily accessible and offers group lodging options for visitors. The Jicarilla Apache are renowned for their intricate basket-making, showcased at the Arts and Crafts Museum in Dulce, where demonstrations are often held. The Cultural Center offers deeper insights into the tribe’s history and traditions.
Annual celebrations provide opportunities to witness Jicarilla Apache culture firsthand. The Little Beaver Rodeo and Pow Wow, a vibrant display of horsemanship and traditional dance, takes place during the third week of July. In September, a two-day traditional ceremony features dances and relay races, offering a glimpse into ancient customs.
The Jicarilla Apache Reservation is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hunting for mule deer, elk, turkey, and waterfowl is permitted with a hunting permit obtained from the Jicarilla Game and Fire Department. Several lakes dot the landscape, offering excellent trout fishing, and campgrounds are available for those seeking a rustic experience.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: Free
- Photography: Photography is restricted; permission is required.
- Hunting Permit: A hunting permit is required from the Jicarilla Game and Fire Department.
- Groups: Advance notice is required for group visits.
Mescalero Apache Tribe of the Mescalero Reservation
The Mescalero Apache Tribe resides on a 460,000-acre reservation in southeastern New Mexico, nestled between Ruidoso and Tularosa. The reservation was established through executive orders spanning from 1873 to 1883. The tribe is comprised of Mescalero, Mimbreño, and Lipan Apache peoples.
The Mescalero Apache have been pioneers in developing recreational and sporting enterprises, capitalizing on the stunning natural beauty of their land. The Inn of the Mountain Gods, a luxurious resort situated by Lake Mescalero, offers upscale accommodations, fine dining, a championship golf course, and various recreational activities, including fishing and horseback riding.
Hunting is a popular activity on the reservation, with big game hunts for bear and elk in the fall and turkey hunts in the spring. Several campsites are available for visitors seeking an immersive outdoor experience. Ski Apache, owned and operated by the Mescalero Apache, is a renowned ski resort located in the nearby Lincoln National Forest.
An annual four-day ceremonial, held in early July, is a significant cultural event featuring a rodeo and various traditional activities. The tribe also operates Casino Apache, offering gaming entertainment.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Photography: Photography is prohibited.
- Groups: Group visits are permitted.
Tohajiilee Indian Reservation (Formerly Canoncito Reservation)
Pronounced "Too HAW chill ee," the Tohajiilee Indian Reservation is a non-contiguous section of the Navajo Nation situated west of Albuquerque, spanning parts of Bernalillo, Cibola, and Sandoval counties. The reservation’s land area constitutes a small fraction of the entire Navajo Nation, encompassing 121.588 square miles (314.911 km²).
Established as a homeland for Navajo people displaced during the tumultuous Long Walk era, Tohajiilee, meaning "where people draw up water by means of a cord or rope one quantity after another," stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of its inhabitants.
New Mexico Pueblos: Ancient Communities
The 19 pueblos of New Mexico represent some of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. These independent sovereign nations each possess a unique cultural identity, language, and history.
Pueblo of Acoma
Pronounced "AH-koh-mah," Acoma Pueblo is perched dramatically atop a 365-foot sandstone mesa, approximately 50 miles west of Albuquerque. Often called "Sky City," Acoma boasts a history stretching back over 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. The pueblo was confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants.
While many Acoma people now reside in nearby villages, some families still maintain homes on the mesa. The delicate and intricately decorated pottery of Acoma is highly prized by collectors worldwide. The Visitors Center at the base of the mesa houses a museum, restaurant, and information center where tours of the pueblo can be arranged.
Visitors can attend various festivals throughout the year. Guided hikes are available, providing a unique perspective on the pueblo’s history and culture. The pueblo operates Sky City Casino and the Sky City Hotel and Conference Center.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Summer, 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Winter, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last tour departs one hour before closing)
- Admission: Adults, $9; Children (5-17), $6; Seniors, $8; Children under 5, Free
- Photography: Photography is permitted with a $10 camera permit; Videotaping is prohibited.
- Groups: Group fees are available for groups of 15 or more; advance notice is required.
Pueblo of Cochiti
Pronounced "KOH-chee-tee," Cochiti Pueblo is located midway between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo is known for its artistic traditions, particularly its pottery. The Storyteller figurine, depicting a seated adult surrounded by children, is a signature piece of Cochiti pottery.
Many Cochiti artists also work in watercolors, ink, and oil paint. The pueblo is also renowned for its handcrafted, double-headed drums, which play a vital role in pueblo ceremonials.
Cochiti Lake offers opportunities for fishing, sailing, swimming, and other water sports. The Cochiti Lake Golf Course is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the United States.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: Free
- Photography: Photography and sketching are not allowed.
- Groups: Advance notice is required for group visits.
Pueblo of Isleta
Pronounced "iss-LEH-tah," Isleta Pueblo produces distinctive red-clay pottery decorated with red and black designs on a white background. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo extends a warm welcome to the public for several dances during the summer, a September fair, and Christmas festivals.
Camping and fishing at Sunrise Lake on the reservation are popular recreational activities. The tribe operates Isleta Casino and Resort, providing gaming entertainment.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Admission: Free
- Photography: Photography is limited to the church only.
- Groups: Advance notice is required for group visits.
Pueblo of Jemez
Pronounced "HAY-mez," Jemez Pueblo’s village of Walatowa is located 55 miles northwest of Albuquerque. The village has been occupied since the 16th century, with many buildings dating back to the period following the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. Jemez is the only remaining pueblo to speak the Towa dialect, an unwritten language. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo has a rich heritage.
Jemez Pueblo has a closed village policy, and visitors are welcome only on feast days. The Walatowa Visitor Center provides information about feast days, group tours, and features a gift shop selling Jemez pottery. Interpretive exhibits offer insights into the history, culture, and experience of the Jemez people. The Jemez are known for their pottery, storytellers, figurines, sculpture, basketry, embroidery, woven cloths, moccasins, and jewelry.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
- Photography: Permitted only at the Jemez Red Rocks.
- Groups: Group presentations are available for groups of 15 or more; advance notice is required.
Kewa Pueblo (Formerly Pueblo of Santo Domingo)
Kewa Pueblo, formerly known as Santo Domingo, holds a significant place in the history and culture of New Mexico’s Native American communities. While specific details on visiting hours, photography policies, and group accommodations may vary, it’s essential to check with the pueblo administration for the most up-to-date information.
The people of Kewa are renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in the creation of exquisite jewelry using turquoise, shell, and silver. The annual Santo Domingo Feast Day, held on August 4th, is a vibrant celebration featuring traditional dances, music, and food.
Pueblo of Laguna
Laguna Pueblo, pronounced "lah-GOO-nah," is comprised of six major villages, with tribal offices located in Old Laguna. The pueblo has existed at its current site, approximately 45 miles west of Albuquerque off I-40, since as early as 1450. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo has a rich history.
Traditional pottery-making was revived in the 1970s, and today’s Laguna painters and jewelers work with innovative designs and techniques, distinguishing their work from other craftspeople. Laguna’s many festivals draw large crowds to enjoy sporting events and trade in arts and crafts, produce, and other goods.
Casa Blanca Village, a shopping center just off I-40, offers visitors the opportunity to purchase pueblo arts and crafts. Gaming, a full-service restaurant, and a snack bar are available at Dancing Eagle Casino and Travel Center at Exit 108.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Admission: Free
- Photography: Photography is limited to certain areas.
- Groups: Advance notice is required for group visits.
Pueblo of Nambe
Nambe Pueblo, pronounced "nahm-BAY," is nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, approximately 23 miles north of Santa Fe. The name Nambe means "Mound of earth, land in a circle" in the Tewa language. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo maintains its traditional cultural practices.
Local artists continue to produce traditional micaceous pottery, a recently revived technique. These artists and others also create weaving, jewelry, stone sculpture, and black or red pottery. Nambe Pueblo celebrates its annual feast day on October 4th in honor of St. Frances de Assisi.
A lake and natural waterfall are located 2 miles east of the pueblo, offering a picnic area, fishing, camping, hiking, and motorless boating. Visitors can also view 15 to 20 majestic buffalo grazing in their natural habitat.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: No admission to view the pueblo; permits are required for photography.
- Lake/Recreation Costs: Fishing, $10; Admission, $5 and up
- Groups: Reservations are required for guided tours of the buffalo; contact Ben Yates at 505-455-2036.
- Waterfalls/Recreation Area: Call 505-455-2304 (seasonal, March to September).
Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo (Formerly Pueblo of San Juan)
Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, pronounced "OH-kay oh-WEEN-geh," formerly known as San Juan Pueblo, is located five miles north of Española off US-285. In 2005, the pueblo reverted to its original name, Ohkay Owingeh, meaning "place of the strong people" in the Tewa language. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo serves as the headquarters of the Eight Northern Indian Pueblo Council, which promotes cooperative efforts among the northern pueblos.
The pueblo features a well-known art center, the Ohkay Owingeh Arts & Crafts Cooperative. Traditional arts include woodcarving and pottery. Buffalo, Basket, and Cloud Dances, featuring beautifully dressed dancers, are presented several times a year. The tribe operates Ohkay Casino and Resort, offering gaming entertainment.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Photography: The current Tribal Council prohibits cameras of any sort.
- Groups: Advance notice is required for group visits.
Pecos Pueblo (Extinct)
Pecos Pueblo, though no longer inhabited, stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of the Pueblo people. Established by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, its historical significance is still remembered.
Pueblo of Picuris
Picuris Pueblo, often referred to as "Hidden Valley," is located 25 miles southeast of Taos, near the town of Peñasco on NM-75. It is one of the smallest pueblos. Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards in the early 1540s, its population was estimated between 2,000 and 3,000. Since the mid-1960s, there has been a revival of traditional religious activities. Picuris celebrates San Lorenzo Feast Day in August of each year.
Picuris potters are known for their unornamented pottery, which has an interesting texture and a subtle glitter from small chips of mica in the pottery clay. A museum houses artifacts and offers arts and crafts for purchase. Visitor attractions include a trout-stocked fishing lake, picnic area, overnight campground, and archaeological excavations. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo has a distinctive history.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Restaurant: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; seats 100, open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM in the winter with extended hours in the summer (may be closed for renovations; call ahead).
- Admission: $3 per person for a self-guided tour.
- Photography: Camera, camcorder, and sketching fees apply.
- Groups: Reservations are required; group rates are available. Guided tours are unavailable.
Pueblo of Pojoaque
Pojoaque Pueblo is located 15 scenic miles north of Santa Fe on Highway 84-285. The Pojoaque Valley is nestled amidst the spectacular landscape of northern New Mexico’s juniper and piñon tree hilltops, mesas, and mountains. The name Pojoaque is a Spanish version of Po Suwae Geh, meaning "water drinking place" in the Tewa language.
The people of Pojoaque have recovered from near extinction and have developed a multiplex of tribally owned and operated enterprises while maintaining a traditional cultural base. The Pueblo of Pojoaque’s Tribal Council established the Poeh Museum and Cultural Center in 1988 as a permanent tribally owned and operated mechanism for cultural preservation and revitalization within the pueblo communities of the northern Rio Grande Valley. The Center emphasizes the arts and cultures of all pueblo people, with a focus on the Tewa-speaking pueblos of Nambe, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, Ohkay Owingeh, Santa Clara, and Tesuque; and the Tiwa-speaking pueblos of Picuris and Taos. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo has a vibrant heritage.
Additional funds generated through the tribally owned Cities of Gold Casino (offering Las Vegas-style gaming) and Cities of Gold Hotel have been used to create the Pojoaque Wellness Center, which houses a gym, pool, library, CHR Program, Senior Citizens Center, and a Boys and Girls Club for tribal and non-tribal members. The Pojoaque Pueblo Tourist Center displays and sells locally produced Native art and other souvenirs. Other amenities include gas stations, convenience stores, the Towa Golf Course, True Value Hardware, a Sports Bar, a Casino, and numerous restaurants. The pueblo’s feast days are December 11 and 12, and January 6.
Pueblo of San Felipe
San Felipe Pueblo is situated 30 miles northwest of Albuquerque off 1-25 and about 10 miles north of Bernalillo. The present pueblo was founded during the early 18th century and retains its traditional customs. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo continues its traditions.
Outsiders are generally not encouraged to visit, but the pueblo welcomes visitors to the Annual Feast Day on May 1. Innovative pottery and some jewelry forms are produced by pueblo members. The tribe operates San Felipe Casino Hollywood, providing gaming entertainment.
Pueblo of San Ildefonso
San Ildefonso has been located at its present site, 20 miles northwest of Santa Fe off NM 502 (the road to Los Alamos), since the late 1500s. Situated on the eastern bank of the Rio Grande, San Ildefonso is well known for its black-on-black pottery, which commands the respect of fine art collectors worldwide. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo has a distinguished history.
Some dances are open to the public throughout the year; of particular importance is the Buffalo-Deer Dance, which takes place on San Ildefonso’s feast day. A museum displays local arts and crafts. The Visitors Center provides additional information and directs people to craft shops in the pueblo. Fishing is available at the lake.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Visitor Center hours)
- Admission: $3 per carload
- Photo Fee: Photos are allowed, for a fee, in the village only. Certain areas of the pueblo are off-limits.
- Groups: Advance notice is required.
Pueblo of Sandia
Sandia Pueblo, located 14 miles north of Albuquerque, is visible from I-25 but must be accessed off NM-313. Sandia has been in existence at its present site since as early as 1300 A.D. Pueblo land elevations range from 5,000 feet in the Rio Grande Valley to 8,200 feet in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo preserves its historical legacy.
Visitors are welcome to Sandia Pueblo’s annual feast day on June 13. The Pueblo owns and operates three enterprises:
- Sandia Lakes Recreation Area (505-897-3971), located 15 minutes from downtown Albuquerque, offering fishing, picnicking, nature trails, and a bait and tackle shop.
- Bien Mur Indian Market Center, offering the highest quality of Indian arts and crafts.
- Sandia Resort & Casino, located immediately north of Albuquerque, providing Las Vegas-style gaming, a gift shop, buffet/fine dining, a deli/coffee shop, a lounge, an amphitheater, and views of the Sandia Mountains.
Pueblo of Santa Ana
The Pueblo of Santa Ana is located on NM-550, about 8 miles northwest of Bernalillo, just west of the confluence of the Rio Jemez and Rio Grande. Santa Ana is a small pueblo with a rich history dating back over 1,000 years. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo takes pride in being one of the more progressive economically.
The pueblo has become a multi-faceted corporation with enterprises such as the Tamaya Cooperative (selling traditional items, such as pottery and textiles), a Garden Center, Blue Corn Enterprises, fine dining restaurants, and 45 holes of championship golf. To showcase their tradition of hospitality, the Pueblo has created the Santa Ana Star Casino and the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa. Starlight Lanes Bowling Alley is part of the Santa Ana Star Casino.
Pueblo of Santa Clara
Santa Clara lies 22 miles northwest of Santa Fe and is easily reached via US 84/285 and NM-30. The pueblo’s Tourist Information Office provides information on the pueblo and directions to various arts and crafts shops. Santa Clara is known for its highly polished black and red pottery, and its outstanding painters and sculptors. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo maintains its traditions.
Several dances and festivals, such as the Buffalo and Corn Dance, are open to the public. Additionally, the pueblo offers fishing and camping in the Canyon Recreational Area. The beauty of the pueblo’s archaeological sites and the splendor of its scenery are famous in the Southwest. The tribe operates Big Rock Casino Bowl, offering gaming entertainment.
Pueblo of Taos
The Pueblo at Taos is one of New Mexico’s most authentic examples of pueblo architecture and tradition. The pueblo’s renowned multi-story apartment houses and famous church can be reached via NM-68 north from Española, through the town of Taos. Taos Pueblo, with Mount Wheeler as its backdrop, is known for its prime scenery, farmland, and hunting.
Taos is also known for the drum-making and leather work of its artisans, and its fine dancers who are admired widely. Visitors are welcome. The tribe operates Taos Mountain Casino, offering gaming entertainment. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo has a remarkable heritage.
Important Information for Visitors:
- Hours: Summer, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM daily; Winter, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
- Admission: Adults, $10 per person; Groups of 3 adults or more, $8 per person; Students, $5 per person
- Photo Fee: Still camera, $5 per camera; video camera, $5 per camera. No photography allowed on feast days. Commercial photographers and/or artists must obtain approval before photographing or using the image of Taos Pueblo.
- Groups: Advance notice is required. Storyteller guides are available.
Pueblo of Tesuque
Tesuque Pueblo, approximately 10 miles north of the city of Santa Fe off US 84/285, is thought to have been established prior to 1200 A.D. Pueblo artists specialize in brightly colored pottery based on traditional designs, and modeled figurines decorated with lively designs, which are widely collected by pueblo art aficionados. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo preserves its history.
The most popular Tesuque dances, the Harvest, Deer, and Buffalo, are held in winter. Gaming is available at Camel Rock Casino.
Pueblo of Zia
Zia Pueblo blends into the landscape atop its rocky knoll, 18 miles northwest of Bernalillo on NM-550, where it has been located since 1300 A.D. The Zia sun symbol is familiar as it has been adopted by New Mexico as the official state insignia and appears on the state flag. Confirmed by United States patents in 1864, under old Spanish grants, the pueblo continues its traditions.
The pueblo is small, but it has produced beautiful, traditional works of art. The Zia have long been known as creators of excellent, well-fired pottery with artistic decorations in brown or black (often utilizing a bird motif). Some Zia painters have achieved recognition for their fine watercolors.
Pueblo of Zuni
Zuni Pueblo, the largest of the 19 New Mexico pueblos, can be reached on NM-602, approximately 32 miles southwest of Gallup in the west-central part of New Mexico. Zuni jewelry is widely acclaimed. Fashioned of turquoise, shell, and jet stone, it is set in silver in intricate patterns known as "needlepoint" or in fine inlay patterns. Confirmed by executive orders dating back to 1877, the pueblo has a rich cultural heritage. The Zuni people are also known for their fine beadwork and exquisite animal fetishes carved from translucent shell or stone.
New Mexico Indian Reservations and Pueblos are not just geographical locations; they are living, breathing communities with deep-rooted traditions and a vibrant cultural heritage. A visit to these areas offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history, art, and customs of the Native American people of New Mexico. By respecting their traditions and seeking to understand their culture, visitors can contribute to the preservation of these invaluable treasures for generations to come.
Please remember to contact the specific Pueblo or Reservation for the most up-to-date information before visiting.