May 9, 2025

Discover the Best Events and Activities at Ghost Ranch in Rio Arriba

Discover the Best Events and Activities at Ghost Ranch in Rio Arriba

Visual artists have been drawn to the beautiful red rock scenery around Abiquiú for many years. Georgia O’Keeffe came to Ghost Ranch in 1934 because she was interested in the area. At the time, Carol Bishop Stanley owned the land.

She made Ghost Ranch her summer home and bought a hacienda in Abiquiú in 1945. Through her art, O’Keeffe made the place famous and famous all over the world. In 1935, Stanley sold the ranch to Arthur Pack. In 1955, Pack gave the ranch to the Presbyterian Church so that it could be used as a school. After 70 years, Ghost Ranch now has two museums, as well as spiritual retreats, artist spaces, workshops, classes, and things to do outside.

The ranch has exhibits that focus on the unique geological, paleontological, and archaeological past of the area. The exhibits also talk about the history and culture of Northern New Mexico. A skeleton from the late Triassic Period called “Tawa Halle” was found at Ghost Ranch in 2009. It is thought to be the best kept and most complete of its kind. Quarries on the ranch are still being used for paleontological research.

Ghost Ranch also has a library with over 12,000 books, classes in everything from astronomy to yoga, cultural events, hiking trails, and trails for horseback riding and mountain biking. There are places to stay the night, as well as cabins for those who want a more natural experience. There are twelve different tours available right now, and many of them are about O’Keeffe’s life and work. Prices range from $20 to $130.

To get to Ghost Ranch, take U.S. Highway 84 between mileposts 224 and 225, which is 23 miles northwest of Española. Call 505-685-1000 or 877-804-4678, send an email to info@ghostranch.org, or go to www.ghostranch.org for more information.

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