New Mexico is home to many incredible landscapes, but they’re often hidden deep within the desert or around the bend. It’s understood that from rock formations to natural art exhibits, the Land of Enchantment is a scenic dream, but we’ll bet you didn’t know what’s hiding beneath the surface. These unique and hand-carved caves in New Mexico are absolutely breathtaking, and there’s one way you can see them firsthand.

Unbeknownst to most, underground New Mexico holds the most beautiful works of art.
Ra Paulette/Facebook
These incredible hand-carved caves were constructed by artist Ra Paulette.
Origin at Rancho de San Juan/Facebook
Ra Paulette has been creating natural caves for over 25 years, and has created over a dozen fantasy-like caves in New Mexico deserts.
Ra Paulette/Facebook
What makes these artistic caves so incredible is that they're all carved by hand. The sandstone is chiseled away all by Paulette himself.
Ra Paulette/Facebook
He often refers to his sandstone creations as "wilderness shrines." Creating these caves is a spiritual experience for him, as there is not much money in this craft. He always works with no one around, except his dog, Bugsy.

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There has even been a documentary made after Paulette's caves called, "Cave Digger."
Ra Paulette/Facebook
Cameras followed Ra Paulette for three years for the 39-minute-long film, which ultimately received an Oscar nomination for best documentary short film.
These caves all vary in accessibility due to being on private land, though this one is accessible by tour.
Ra Paulette/Facebook
Origin of Northern New Mexico is the only establishment that offers Art Cave Tours.
Ra Paulette/Facebook
They have a Classic Cave Tour, and a Windows of the Earth Sound Experience that offers different meditation and sound experiences that are said to facilitate healing.
These private tours are truly life-changing, and an experience you can't find elsewhere!
Ra Paulette/Facebook
All participants are required to sign a waiver prior to the tour. The tours can accommodate up to 14 people, and snacks and refreshments are available. To learn more about Origin's tours and to make a reservation, visit ​​Origin website.
Who knew that beneath the New Mexico desert were such breathtaking hand-carved caves? Experience them fully for a truly transformative experience!
Ra Paulette/Facebook
To learn more about the tours provided by Origin, visit the ​​Origin Art Cave website.

Did you know these works of art were hiding underground? Have you visited these hand carved caves in New Mexico? Let us know how it was in the comments, and don’t forget to share photos from the experience with us on Instagram by tagging #onlyinnewmexico for a chance to have your photos featured!

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Origin Caves are temporarily closed for trail maintenance and renovations.

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More to Explore

Unique Cave In New Mexico

Leah | March 21, 2020

Where can I hike to a cave in New Mexico?

If you're itching to explore more caverns in New Mexico, you're in the right place. One of the best cave hikes in the state is the Tent Rocks Slot Canyon and Cave Loop Trail. a bit more about this cave and trail:

  • This trail will take you to the geological wonders that are tent rocks, named for their tent-like shape.
  • The trail is part of a national monument near Santa Fe.
  • Along the trail, you'll see a cave in the canyon walls, as well as plenty of stunning rock formations.
  • It's a 3.1-mile loop that's well worth taking, and you can learn more about it by checking out this article on Rent Rocks Slot!

 

Does New Mexico have any natural wonders?

While this hand-carved cave is stunning, it is man-made. There are plenty of natural wonders in New Mexico that are impressive for their completely nature-made beauty. Just to name a few:

  • There is a 5000-year-old naturally-formed dam called Soda Dam located near Jemez Springs. It was formed by calcium deposits and now features a waterfall and a landscape that looks like something from another world.
  • Visit the amusing Camel Rock near Santa Fe to see a huge rock formation that takes the funky shape of a resting camel.
  • Try the Angel Peak Scenic Park, located near Bloomfield, for a sweeping vista of colorful badlands.

 

What one-of-a-kind destinations can I visit in New Mexico?

Discover more unique places in New Mexico by checking out the following spots:

  • The quirky Meow Wolf in Santa Fe. It's a bit weird and a bit wonderous at the same time, featuring tons of amazing, fantastical art installations.
  • The Land of Fire And Ice near Grants is a place where you can see both a volcanic crater and mesmerizing ice caves right next to each other.

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Origin at Rancho de San Juan, 49 de San Juan,, Ojo Caliente, NM 87549, USA