La Bajada (1)

Historical marker location:

I-25 exit 258 at NM Highway 16, Pueblo of Cochiti vicinity, New Mexico

( I-25 Cochití exit 258 near NM Highway 22, which intersects with NM Highway 16)

This black volcanic escarpment is one of New Mexico’s most important landmarks. It marks the division between the upper and middle sections of the Rio Grande. The 800-foot descent (bajada) was always an obstacle to travelers, but it afforded the most direct route from the Rio Grande Valley to Santa Fe. The Camino Real, Ocean to Ocean Highway and the original alignment of Route 66 all traversed La Bajada.