Chimayó, New Mexico

The Lourdes America

Each year, pilgrims journey through the high desert of northern New Mexico to the Santuario de Chimayó, a small adobe church that has become one of the most beloved pilgrimage sites in the United States. Often called the “Lourdes of America,” Chimayó has long been a place where people come seeking healing, repentance, and encounter with God.

At the heart of the sanctuary is a small room containing the tierra bendita—holy dirt—believed by generations of pilgrims to be a sign of God’s healing presence. For centuries, people have carried burdens—physical, spiritual, and emotional—along the road to Chimayó, entrusting them to God in hope and faith.

A traditional adobe-style building with two towers and a courtyard, surrounded by trees and mountains in the background, with people walking nearby.

When we are going next

People gathering with backpacks and gear near a sign in a desert landscape, preparing for an outdoor activity, with mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.

October 7th - 11th, 2026

Open Registration

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October 21st - 24th, 2026

John Paul the Great Catholic High School

Closed Registration

Three hikers walking down a dirt rural road with fences on both sides, scattered houses, leafless trees, and distant mountains in the background.

April 8th - 11th, 2027

Open Registration

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The Route

Our pilgrimage takes the High Road from Taos to Chimayó passing through Peñasco, Trampas, and Truchas. We go over mountains and streams, through farmlands and local neighborhoods, and stop to see some of America’s earliest churches that were the foundation for the continuation of the faith for 200 years.

Hear from the locals what Chimayó means to them

A wooden cross with a figure of Jesus Christ carved from wood, surrounded by rocks and situated outside a stucco building, with the sun shining behind it.

Group of people outdoors, enjoying a playful moment and laughter, with a background of mountains and trees.

A view through a vehicle's side mirror showing a road with a car approaching, with trees and power lines in the background, during sunset or dusk.

Group of seven hikers walking on a dirt trail in a forested area, carrying backpacks and hiking poles on a sunny day.

A dimly lit room with two people on the floor and one person standing near a window, surrounded by backpacks, sleeping bags, and supplies.

Group of hikers with backpacks gathered on side of a winding road in a rural, mountainous area with sparse vegetation and cloudy sky.

A group of people sitting and standing in front of a building with adobe walls and a wooden door, under a blue sky with power lines. The building features small towers with crosses on top.

Five hikers, three men and two women, standing outside a house with blue door and window frames, preparing for a hike. One man is sitting on a step adjusting his shoes, while the others are standing and talking, with backpacks and gear.

A red leather Bible with an embossed cross on the cover, placed on a black book, with a white note and a blue pen on top of the black book, sitting on a dark wooden surface.

Group of hikers with backpacks and trekking poles walking on a snowy trail in a forest with tall pine trees and a partly cloudy sky.

Statue of the Virgin Mary holding an American flag, with a decorative white backdrop resembling a flower or angel wings. The background includes a building with a window and some dried plants.

From the Pilgrims

Mike B.

“This was my 3rd Creatio Chimayo pilgrimage. Each trip has gotten better and better. The pilgrimage path was overflowing with stunning scenery, tranquil forest roads, gentle rolling hills, tranquil ranches, and steadfast adobe churches of yore. The Faith of the abuelos/ancestors remains alive in the locals who continue their traditions of love. Our two missionary guides, Mairead and Mary helped frame each stage of the route, leading with insightful scripture passages and reflections, that inspired miles of contemplation and reflection. All of this lead to deep conversations and interactions amongst the pilgrims. Finding glimpses of our Creator while in Creation elevate this trip up from just a walk to an encounter. Let's go!”
John L.

“My wife and I had an incredible experience. Our two guides, Maread and Mary, were simply amazing. Wize beyond their years, I was so impressed with their knowledge of backpacking and our Catholic/Christian faith, and their leadership ability. This trip was just not a job for them. They made it apparent that it was their Mission. Watching Mary repeatedly tend to the ailing feet of a fellow pilgrim reminded me of the love that animated Jesus to wash the feet of his disciples. If you want to get closer to God and nature while challenging yourself, I highly recommend this Pilgrimage.”
Cynthia L.

“The pilgrimage was a great experience — beautiful scenery, interesting people, spiritual growth, physical challenge and lovely churches. The guides were well-prepared, knowledgeable and supportive.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Chimayó is a 4 day trip, 3 of which are spent walking.
We do a total of 45 miles, splitting that up over three days walking 18, 18, and 9 miles.
We stay in old convents, churches, and gyms. We have been friends with the locals for many years and they love hosting us. We sleep on the floor, requiring a sleeping pad. See the packing list for more information.
Yes! You most definitely can fly into Santa Fe. Our Missionary Guides will be in touch to iron out the details for you.