Santa Fe, New Mexico
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There's spectacular hiking all around Santa Fe, but if you have time for just one ramble, head to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, which is about a 45-minute drive south of town, toward Albuquerque. This 2-mile, moderately steep hike passes through a narrow, dramatic box canyon and then rises up to a lofty promontory affording panoramic views of the mountains and mesas. The monument is named for the bizarre rock formations that rise high out of one end of the canyon and look a bit like sandstone tepees.

If you're visiting between December and April, bring your skis with you, or rent some in town. Ski Santa, which is about 15 miles northeast of downtown, offers 44 trails of rugged, beautifully groomed trails. If you have trouble believing New Mexico offers much in the way of winter sports, consider that the ski area receives an average of 240 inches of snowfall annually. This is a first-rate facility, albeit not quite as famous or as demanding as Taos Ski Valley, which is just a two-hour drive north.

However you get your exercise, whether hiking, skiing, or strolling among art galleries, you're sure to work up an appetite in these parts, especially given the city's high altitude, which can tax your system if you're not used to it. Fortunately, this is a city with no shortage of terrific restaurants. Serving some of the most authentic New Mexican fare in town, the Shed is an excellent choice. The setting inside a 1692 adobe is ideal for sampling such local favorites as green-chile stew with pork and potatoes, and red-chile enchiladas. Or drop by Il Vicino, an inexpensive, gay-friendly pizza place serving delicious thin-crust pies topped with gourmet ingredients, microbrewed beers, and a cheerful courtyard.

A favorite spot for brunch is the fabulous Cafe Pasqual's, where you might sample buttermilk biscuits with sage-bacon gravy, homemade sausage, and poached eggs. More sophisticated and substantial fare appears on the dinner menu - try the organic-chicken mole at dinner. You'll find a couple of the city's top restaurants along charming Canyon Road, including such high-end standouts as the Compound and Geronimo, as well as the popular tapas option, El Farol. Also specializing in smaller plates, downtown's La Boca turns out such exemplary fare as Moroccan-grilled shrimp with sweet-pea-basil puree, and seared ahi tuna with Manchego-white-bean hash.

If you've had your fill of New Mexican cuisine, head to the first-rate Kasasoba for exquisite Japanese food. And for casual, affordable, yet creative American chow, don't miss these two gay favorites, the Cowgirl (great for barbecue, and with a big patio), or Harry's Roadhouse a short drive south of the city - not terribly far from Silver Starlight Lounge. Harry's is especially popular for its house-made desserts and potent margaritas.
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