The Placitas Open Space, nestled in the picturesque town of Placitas, is a stunning 560-acre preserve featuring rolling hills, arroyos, and a portion of the serene Las Huertas Creek. Its vast landscapes offer visitors an opportunity to explore and experience nature up close.

This open space holds significant historical importance as it was the location where Aldo Leopold, a pioneering conservationist, first envisioned the concept of a wilderness area. His idea eventually led to the creation of the United States first wilderness area in 1964. The Placitas Open Space continues to stand as a testament to his lasting legacy.

In the late 1990s, the local community rallied together to preserve this valuable open space from expanding mining operations on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. Through their efforts and support for preservation, around 1,800 acres remain undeveloped, protecting the areas unique natural beauty and habitat.

Visitors can immerse themselves in this pristine landscape, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna that call this open space home. With its rich history and unspoiled wilderness, Placitas Open Space provides an enchanting escape for anyone seeking to connect with natures untouched beauty.