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The bee mascot demontsrates safe walking to El Santuario de Chimayó by wearing reflective clothing and a sun hat, and carrying water and supplies. The bee is properly disposing of waste, something public safety personnel are reminding all walkers to do. Don't bee a litter bug--leave no trace!

SANTA FE, NM, March 30, 2026—Public safety personnel have important messages for all travelers in Northern New Mexico this week, and especially on Thursday and Friday, April 2 and 3.

This week, thousands of people will embark on the sacred tradition of walking across Northern New Mexico to visit the historic chapel of El Santuario de Chimayó. While the walk is a Catholic tradition, all are welcome, and many will walk day and night along roads and highways to get there.

Pedestrian traffic will come from all over the state, but concentrates along U.S. 84/285, NM 503, and CR 98 (Juan Medina Road), especially on Thursday and Friday.

Extra patrols will be on duty in the region and along the routes.

To help things go smoothly, public safety personnel created several slogans for this year’s bee mascot: bee safe, bee seen, and don't bee a litter bug. 

Motorists and walkers should consider the following:

• Motor vehicle traffic should expect delays, allow for longer travel times, and be aware of pedestrians walking alongside roadways, even on the highways.
• Pedestrians should follow the route information on signs temporarily installed by the New Mexico Department of Transportation and Santa Fe County.
• Pedestrians should wear visible clothing that can be seen at dusk and night, and avoid wearing dark colors.
• Pedestrians should wear reflective clothing and flashing lights to be more visible to motor vehicle traffic.
• Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated. Porta potties will be available along the route.
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
• Properly dispose of waste. Do not leave any trash along the route.
• Respect Tribal lands and the natural beauty of the area along the route.
• Fire danger has been high. Properly dispose of any cigarettes. There will be no burning on April 2, 3 and 4.

Route information, videos, a pilgrimage checklist in Spanish and English, and Blue Bus transportation options are on the County Pilgrimage Checklist webpage.

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