Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary
A serene 135-acre sanctuary in Santa Fe's foothills, offering birdwatching, hiking, and a glimpse into artist Randall Davey's legacy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Flowers bloom, birds are active
Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary
Best Time
Flowers bloom, birds are active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 135-acre sanctuary in Santa Fe's foothills, offering birdwatching, hiking, and a glimpse into artist Randall Davey's legacy.
"A gem for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and families seeking a peaceful escape with a touch of art history."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
Essential for longer hikes, especially outside the main sanctuary area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nature Discovery Area Loop
Main Sanctuary Trails
Wander through diverse habitats on this accessible loop, perfect for spotting birds and enjoying the serene landscape.
The Treehouse Fort Playground
Near Visitor Center
A magical spot for kids with a fantastic treehouse structure, offering a fun break for families.
Randall Davey Home & Studio
Historic Buildings
Tour the former home and studio of artist Randall Davey, filled with his unique art and a glimpse into Santa Fe's past.
Secret Garden
Near Visitor Center
A charming garden area, especially vibrant with hummingbirds and butterflies, perfect for a peaceful moment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Birdwatching Bliss
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
Essential for longer hikes, especially outside the main sanctuary area.
🐦 Pack Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience and spot more species.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Zone
The treehouse playground is a hit with kids; pack a picnic!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
Essential for longer hikes, especially outside the main sanctuary area.
🐦 Pack Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience and spot more species.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Zone
The treehouse playground is a hit with kids; pack a picnic!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient parking makes starting your visit hassle-free.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary as a beautiful and peaceful escape, highlighting its diverse wildlife, well-maintained trails, and family-friendly amenities like the treehouse playground. The artistic history of Randall Davey's home also adds a unique cultural layer to the experience. Some visitors note that accessibility might be a concern on certain trails due to stairs.
"We had the chance to visit the Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary—what a gem! We spotted several new birds for us, including pinyon jay, pygmy nuthatch, Clark’s nutcracker, broad-tailed hummingbird, Williamson’s sapsucker, and both Cassin’s and plumbeous vireo. Such a treat!
It has a very different feel from the Tucson canyons. Take the loop trail to stay in the preserve or take a great hike that begins just past the Audubon preserve, (signs posted). This trail crosses Bear Creek several times and takes you through a variety of habitats. Approximately 1-2 miles in and out - took us about 2 1/2 hours. We are fairly fit seniors. No facilities or markers outside the Audubon territory, so good shoes, water, and sunscreen are essential—but it’s well worth it. The Audubon loop trail is shorter taking you around the preserve. Be sure to stop by the Audubon “Secret Garden” to see the hummingbirds either before or after taking the loop trail or trail beyond. Free parking."
Tyler Dylan
"I visited the Randall Davey Audubon Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in March 2025, and it was a fantastic experience. The views were beautiful, even though many plants and flowers hadn’t bloomed yet—you could see they were just about to burst open. We hiked the main loop trail, which was moderately easy and well-marked. There are stairs to climb to the trails, so accessibility for someone with limited mobility may be an issue. One of the highlights was the natural playground, featuring a large treehouse for kids and plenty of shady spots to escape the sun. The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, making the visit even more enjoyable. I would return to explore another trail and would love to visit at a different time of year to see the landscape in full bloom. A wonderful place to spend some time!"
Elizabeth Brown-Neigum
"The Randall Davey Audubon Center & Sanctuary provided a wonderful escape this late fall. We visited after a snowstorm had dusted the grounds with a fresh layer of white, making the already beautiful scenery even more breathtaking. With the crowds thinned and the historic buildings closed for the season, a sense of peace and solitude permeated the air. While we missed touring the house and studio, the natural beauty of the sanctuary more than made up for it. We were incredibly lucky to encounter a family of deer calmly grazing near the trail, seemingly oblivious to our presence. Capturing photos of them in that serene setting was a true highlight of our visit. We also enjoyed a leisurely walk along the trails, spotting different types of birds flitting among the snow-dusted trees. It was the perfect way to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the season. Even though the buildings were closed, the open trails and the captivating wildlife made our visit to the Randall Davey Audubon Center a truly memorable experience."
Terry Rostro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located in the foothills of Santa Fe, about 10 minutes from downtown. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available.
While specific public transport routes might vary, it's generally recommended to drive or use a ride-sharing service for direct access. mentions carpooling from Santa Fe Water Hi.
From downtown Santa Fe, head east towards the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The sanctuary is well-signposted and located in the foothills.
Yes, there is free parking available for visitors.
Yes, the sanctuary's trails connect to longer, more rugged trails that lead into the Santa Fe National Forest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the sanctuary grounds and trails is generally free, though donations are appreciated to support conservation efforts.
Hours can vary seasonally, especially for the historic home tours. It's best to check the official Audubon website or social media for the most current information. mentions a specific event time.
For general access to the trails and grounds, advance booking is typically not required. However, special events or guided tours might need reservations.
Guided bird walks and tours of the Randall Davey Home are often offered. Check the Audubon's events calendar for schedules and booking information.
Follow their social media channels (TikTok, Instagram) and check the Audubon Southwest website for event announcements and volunteer opportunities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can spot a variety of birds, including pinyon jays, pygmy nuthatches, and hummingbirds. Deer have also been seen grazing.
The main loop trails are moderately easy, but some have stairs. Longer trails can be more rugged. +1
The main loop trails have some stairs, which may be an issue for those with limited mobility. The natural playground area is generally accessible.
There's a fantastic treehouse fort playground, and the sanctuary often hosts family-friendly events like Nature Storytime and volunteer days.
Typically, pets are not allowed in Audubon sanctuaries to protect wildlife. Please check the specific rules for Randall Davey.
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens are great for close-ups of birds and butterflies. The trails offer scenic landscape shots, especially with wildlife sightings.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial use or professional shoots, it's advisable to inquire with the sanctuary management.
Birdwatching photography is very popular, with many species to capture. Butterflies and other insects in the gardens are also great subjects.
Interior photography might be restricted during tours, but the exterior and surrounding grounds offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography and are also prime times for wildlife activity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Many families enjoy packing a picnic to extend their visit and make a day of it. Keep an eye out for special family events like Nature Storytime and volunteer days, which are designed to be both fun and educational for kids.
The sanctuary's accessible trails and amenities like restrooms make it a convenient choice for parents. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled by the diverse wildlife, particularly the abundant bird species. Bringing binoculars is highly recommended to enhance your birdwatching experience.
🎨 Art and History Buffs
Discover his paintings, murals, and personal artifacts that offer a fascinating glimpse into his life and the artistic scene of Santa Fe in the mid-20th century.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Wildlife
Wildlife sightings are a significant draw. Birdwatchers can delight in spotting numerous species, including pinyon jays, pygmy nuthatches, and various hummingbirds. Keep an eye out for deer grazing peacefully in the meadows, especially during quieter times of the day. The sanctuary's commitment to conservation ensures a thriving ecosystem, making every visit a potential opportunity for a memorable wildlife encounter.
When planning your hike, remember to wear sturdy footwear and carry water and sunscreen, particularly if you intend to explore the longer, more rugged trails. The sanctuary's natural setting is best enjoyed when you're prepared for the elements.
Family Fun and Activities
+1The sanctuary also hosts various family-friendly events throughout the year. These can include Children's Garden Volunteer Days and Nature Storytime, which combine educational elements with hands-on activities and nature exploration.
These events are a fantastic way to engage children with nature in a fun and accessible environment. Many families choose to pack a picnic to enjoy after playtime, taking advantage of the serene surroundings. With amenities like bathrooms and changing tables, the sanctuary is well-equipped to accommodate families, making the visit convenient and enjoyable for parents.
The Artistic Legacy of Randall Davey
Tours of the Randall Davey Home showcase his unique paintings, murals, and personal belongings, providing insight into his artistic process and the lifestyle of an artist in Santa Fe during the mid-20th century. The house itself is a testament to his creative spirit, reflecting the era when Santa Fe was transitioning from a frontier outpost to a burgeoning cultural hub.
While the house may be closed during certain seasons or for private events, the opportunity to learn about Davey's contributions to the art world adds a rich cultural dimension to the natural beauty of the sanctuary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit