The Eclipse Grazing Zone near Santa Fe
The area just below Ski Santa Fe offers a prime location for the observation of extended Baily’s Beads if weather the cooperates.
On early Monday morning, Michael drive up the mountain to inspect the likely observation spots. With the photographs below all taken before 9:15 am, which is time of first contact, they show ample parking spots and adjacent viewing spots. An early arrival will guarantee a choice location.
This is the upper part of NM Hwy 475, Hyde Park Road. The best view points for unobstructed skysheds are Aspen Vista Road, Vista Grande Overlook, and Ski Santa Fe.
The Aspen Vista Trailhead can park at least 100 cars and has a primitive toilet.
The Vista Grande Overlook can park about 40 cars. No toilet, but Ski Santa Fe is a 5 minute drive.
Ski Santa Fe lodge will be open and chairlifts running at 10:00 am. There will be a grill open on the outdoor deck of the lodge. The parking areas are very large and there issue to find a great spot.
On Monday, October 9, the current forecast for eclipse day is “Sunshine and clouds mixed.” If the weather is deemed too dodgy for the mountains, a possible back-up viewing location is Nambe Sacred Heart church. This church has an ample parking lot with clear sky view and adjacent to the main road. The grazing zone circumstances are similar.
