The weather should be lovely. Average temperatures in May range from a possible high of 72 to a low of 42, with a mean of 55 degrees. Temperatures drop quickly once the sun sets, however,  and it will be cooler at night, so I suggest bringing a jacket, sweater, or wrap (and the local stores will be happy to sell you lovely versions of those items). It may also be windy during our tour of Fort Union, which is on the open prairie.  

I want to add a note of caution that Santa Fe is in the mountains and at an altitude of 7,000 feet! This means that it may take you a day or two to adjust to the thinner air. If you are concerned about the altitude, there is an altitude medication, Acetazolamide, that I recommend asking your healthcare provider about before you travel. It is also a very dry climate (less than 20% humidity). You should be sure to stay hydrated (try to drink more water than usual, which also helps with the altitude). Sunscreen is also a must (and I suggest a hat as well) as the high altitude and thin air make the sun shine brighter. Finally, I don’t know if this is good news or bad news, but the altitude also means that alcohol will work faster (one drink can feel more like three), so take it slow and be sure to drink lots of water!

We can’t wait to see you in just a few short months!

Very best, Cathleen Cahill, Acting Director