Tsankawi: our favorite easy hike, and the one that surprises every guest.

Tsankawi is our favorite easy hike and exploring spot. It's a short trail past fascinating old Native American caves, with spectacular views from the side of a plateau. We send everyone we can.

Heads up on the ladders. The trail involves climbing several steep ladders. They're the one thing about this hike that catches people off guard. If you're traveling with small kids, you can absolutely do it — go slow. If you're traveling with someone who really doesn't like ladders, this isn't their hike. Send them to Sun Mountain instead — close to both houses, just a quick drive down Old Santa Fe Trail, short and scenic with good elevation and beautiful views.

Pair it with lunch at Izanami at Ten Thousand Waves on the way back. Sushi in a beautiful mountain setting, after a hike — that's a complete day.

If you want a longer outdoor day instead, the natural pairing is Bandelier National Monument — historic cave dwellings and cliff houses, well-maintained trails, fascinating history. Arrive early; it's popular for a reason.