This trail, roughly eight miles roundtrip, is the longest in Chaco Culture National Historic Park. It winds its way past Pueblo and Navajo petroglyphs etched into a cliff face, the spectacular “Supernova” pictograph, the Penasco Blanco great house where you’ll see a number of great kivas, as well as remnants of an irrigation system that included canals, ditches, and storage ponds. At certain points in the ruins, there are lovely views of Chaco Canyon and Escavada and Chaco wash. It’s relatively level, but the sand along the way makes for some difficult hiking.
This trail takes hikers right across sections of a very rough lava flow, making trav-ersing strenuous but exciting. Along the way, the trail winds through a vibrant forest of aspen, ponderosa pine, piñon and juniper, and areas of beautiful wildflowers. The trail also crosses a lava bridge as you wind your way around the lava tubes, one of which is the longest in North America. Be sure to get a permit to explore the caves in this same area. Not a super long hike, but one that takes you over some rugged terrain.
Views of the Sangre de Cristo, Jemez, Sandia, San Pedro and Ortiz mountains greet you when you finally make your way up this, at times, steep climb. The trail follows the Tesuque Creek for awhile before making its way up and into the San-gre de Cristo Mountains. The three-mile roundtrip loop is challenging and makes for a good workout.
In the desert, the length of a trail doesn’t define its difficulty—conditions do. This trail is primitive and the surrounding area is desolate so the almost four-mile out-and-back can be exhausting. However, the landscape it takes you through is spec-tacular: sweeping views of the New Mexican terrain for miles, views of chaparral covered canyons, an occasional cactus in bloom, and plenty of lizards and other reptiles (watch your step!).
This day hike takes you through a thick forest wilderness to a crest of the Manzano Mountains. The seven-mile trail traverses through a wilderness area that features a waterfall, multiple creek crossings, occasional wildlife spotting, and beautiful scenery filled with wildflowers, giant ferns, and striking aspen trees. This high elevation, out-and-back trail is best done from April through November.
]]>Located at about 7,000 feet, this high mountain reservoir is filled by the brisk waters of the Rio Chama. The best jet skiing time is mid-season when the water warms a little. The five-mile-long lake is a mile wide and about 2,500 acres of boating fun. No wake zones are in place at specific spots—be prepared to slow down. Other types of watersports are allowed on the lake, so share the space. This is also a great birding spot for bald eagles and other birds.
You won’t find a crowd at this lake, which makes it a great place to do some figure eights, jump a few wakes, and get some speed going. The Pecos River runs through this reservoir which creates canyons to venture into. They’re narrow and shallow, plus there’s a no wake zone, but the scenery is spectacular and the wildlife abundant. Islands in the middle are worth circumnavigating. With 3,500 acres of relatively warm water in this arid part of the state, it’s viable throughout the year.
From the seat of a personal watercraft at lake level, the magnificence of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range on the horizon is awe-inspiring. The water is serene, allowing for a smooth ride across this 1,100-acre lake. It is a popular place for windsurfers and Hobie Cat racers, so no cutting through the regatta, it’s not allowed. The wind picks up regularly creating some white caps just right for flying across.
You’d be hard-pressed to find a prettier spot to scoot across than this lake’s surface. Created in 1939 by the Sumner Dam, this 4,500-acre reservoir has miles of shoreline to explore. You can ride all the way to the dam which is holding back the Pecos River. Along the way, venture into some of the coves for wildlife viewing and slice through some lovely, pristine water. Located in an area of grassy plains, it gets a little windy, but early morning and evening time are calm.
Plan to spend days here jet skiing around the state’s second largest lake. Located at 6,000 feet, the water coming in from the San Juan River keeps things on the chilly side. On a summer’s day, however, skimming across this long, skinny reservoir is a thrilling escapade. Long fingers stretch off the main portion into canyons and coves rife with possibilities to see birds, wildlife, incredible vistas and spectacular habitat. Be sure the gas tank is full!
]]>The Rio Grande Gorge is a 50-mile-long canyon teeming with a diversity of plant and animal life. The river, itself, is part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. The views from the top are magnificent panoramas of sage-brush dotted high desert mesas. The hike takes you down into this rift valley where you’ll pass stands of ancient juniper and ponderosa pine trees. As part of the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, you might happen upon big horn sheep or mule deer. Look up for spottings of red-tailed hawks and migratory birds. The moderate to difficult hike has a 1,300-foot elevation gain. Take plenty of water … and a camera.
This 3,100-mile trail traverses 770 miles of magnificent New Mexican landscape. An eight-mile, well-marked loop of it passes right through the beautiful San Pedro Parks Wilderness, a vibrant area marked with crystal clear streams, lush, grassy meadows dotted with wildflowers and dense stands of spruce, conifers and aspens. The man-made San Gregorio Reservoir is along the way for a peaceful resting point. In the fall, you might see deer, elk and bear. Although the elevation is about 10,000 feet, the trail is moderate trek through stunning scenery in the peace and quiet of the mountains. Lots of snow in winter.
The Pecos Wilderness, where this trail is located, is home to the highest number of 12,000 foot-plus peaks in the state. It is a true mountain wilderness complete with invigorating alpine lakes, thickets of fir and pine trees on steep rugged ridges, broad mesas, and gorgeous wildflower-laden meadows. This 12-mile out-and-back trail is a comfortable and moderate trek along a well-maintained path. It climbs steadily to the picture-perfect goal of Stewart Lake in the shadow of Santa Fe Baldy Mountain, the highest peak in the Santa Fe County. If you take your dog, be sure it’s leashed.
This is not a strenuous hike, but it’s covered with all manner of eye-catching rock art that makes it a dramatic one. With more than 21,000 petroglyphs to look at the mile-and-a-half out-and-back trail could be an exhaustive walk. Carved by the Jornada Mogollon people, the sunbursts and animals and geometric designs carved more than 1,000 years ago are evidence of another culture’s form of communication. The trail winds through the basalt rock on the ridge of the Three Rivers Valley and through desert landscape. Who really knows what all those horned beings and crazy-haired figures mean, but it’s a fun place to let your imagination go wild.
Dripping Springs Natural Area is a desert terrain dotted with mesquite trees, creosote bushes and native grasses. This three-mile loop trail provides breathtaking views of the Organ Mountains, named for the pointed pinnacle shapes reminiscent of the pipes of an organ. The area is noted for its weeping walls—there’s a waterfall along the way. The hike is moderate, through desert scrub and oak woodlands. It has about a 500-foot elevation gain, but since you start at 5,500 feet it’s a noticeable difference. There are historic ruins of an old hotel and a sanatorium to explore. Keep your eyes peeled for a golden eagle, mule deer or even the elusive mountain lion.
]]>Put your paddle tires on your ATV because these 20 miles of trails across 800 acres of Bureau of Land Management land are full of sand, sand, and more sand. It’s a typical desert environment where you traverse sandy arroyo bottoms, climb sand dunes, and scoot between towering sandstone walls. The area is open year-round, weather permitting. Primitive camping available, but there are no services and no water. A permit is required, as are helmets for those under 18 years-old.
If you’re looking for a little night riding adventure, this is the place. It’s 6,000 acres with trails that run through predominately sandy washes and dry, barren desert. At 5,000 feet, there are trails along sandstone and limestone bluffs and into deep canyons. Views of the Rio Grande Valley are impressive during daylight hours. Permit required. Open year-round. Camping is primitive but allowable and free.
The lightly-maintained desert trails in the hills and mountains northwest of town are rocky, steep in spots, with little or no shade on mostly hard-pack terrain. There are, however, lots of diversions into rugged canyons, through desert chaparral and across craggy ridges. Great views of Las Cruces in the distance. It’s free and open year-round. Permit is required. Come prepared. Youth, under 18, must wear a helmet.
Covering 8,700 acres of Chihuahuan Desert, Aden Hills is a great spot for an off-roading adventure. According to the Bureau of Land Management, the area is “characterized by low mesquite or creosote-stabilized coppice dunes, and a variety of dropseed grasses, yucca, and cacti.” Aden Hills has been a designated off-roading area since 1993.
With a 1.2-mile track and 10 miles of ATV trails, this is an off-roader’s dream! The park covers 300 acres of land and is maintained by the Red Rock Motorsports Club. Events are regularly held in the area, bringing the off-roading community together.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>The ride along many of these desert single-track trails overlooks the Pecos River, providing beautiful scenic vistas, if you take the time to look. There are three square miles of mostly hard pack terrain to crisscross that take you up some hills, along sandy washes and over loose, rocky sections. No trees along the way means no shade so take plenty of water. Camping available with restroom facilities but there’s no potable water. Open year-round. Entrance fee is $3 and an OHV permit required. Youth, under 18, must wear a helmet.
There’s some big air that can happen on the 14 square-miles of trails through desert scrub brush west of town at this 8,700-acre off road area. The 50 trails are fast and sandy with plenty of exciting terrain features. It’s free to ride out here, but an OHV permit is required. Open year-round. Helmets are required for anyone under 18. Primitive camping is available.
This small trail system is great for those dual-sport motorcycle enthusiasts who love to ride both on and off-road. There are three miles of single track trails through this part of the spectacular Lincoln National Forest. The trail loop begins at Silverwood Campground and ends at the Silver Overflow Campground. An OHV permit is required but there are no entrance fees, only campground fees. Open year-round. Helmets a must for those under 18.
Gordy's Hill is one of the most thrilling places for a dirt biking adventure in the whole state. Situated on 6,000 acres, this scenic spot overlooks the Rio Grande Valley. The best part? It's accessible to a variety of skill levels. Enjoy picturesque routes with immaculate canyons and limestone bluffs on trails that can offer a little bit of a challenge no matter how exerpienced you are.
With 20 square miles of open riding, you can really ride at full throttle. The landscape is relatively flat and sandy, with a smattering of hard pack. You will reach some fenced boundaries, since the area is bordered by a bombing range and some private property, but there is so much space it can’t curb your enthusiasm. Safety flags are recommended. No fees, but an OHV permit is required. Opened year-round with very primitive camping. Under 18, helmets required.
]]>The Gila Wilderness was the first to be designated as such in the world and con-tinues to be one of the largest uninhabited backcountry in the U.S. This 20-mile loop is an awe-inspiring hike that takes you through narrow pine-covered canyons up 8,600 feet to the top of the mesa. Along the way, you’ll see impressive geological features, as well as remnants of indigenous people’s culture. This is a rugged and difficult hike that can be done in a day, but is more fun as a two-day camping overnighter. Don’t miss the Gila Cliff dwellings!
The Wheeler Peak Wilderness is in the Carson National Forest, which encom-passes more than 1.5 million acres of mixed-use land. It is one of six wilderness areas within forest’s boundaries. This 10 mile out-and-back hike takes you through mature pine, fir and aspen trees, past Horseshoe Lake and along the ridgeline between Wheeler Peak and Simpson Peak. Plan for a full day of hiking along easy to moderate trail. Elevation gain is about 2,000 feet. Best done between May and October. Great for birding and nature walks.
The trailhead for this hike begins at Battleship Rock, looks just like it sounds. The midway point for this six-mile hike is McCauley Hot Springs, where a relaxing foot soak makes the return down the mountain all the more enjoyable. Along the way, you’ll see impressive obsidian rocks from the caldera, groves of Ponderosa pine, stunning red sandstone mountains, and a breathtaking waterfall. The winding trail is a series of switchbacks up the mountain, with some very steep sections. Be sure to follow the trail signs.
This loop trail is about five miles roundtrip, which will likely take 3-4 hours to trav-erse. With only 270 feet of elevation, and a relatively short distance, this moderate trail is kid-friendly. Take in the scenic overlook views of beautiful Chacoan buildings. The trail is also dog-friendly (but make sure to have a leash for your four-legged friend!). This is an excellent, beautiful hike the whole family will enjoy.
This trail may be 16 miles, but it’s easily navigable because it’s paved. The trail passes through the Rio Grande Valley State Park, and is accessible for hikers, runners, and bicyclists. The area is even wheelchair accessible. Have a baby in a stroller? No problem. This trail can accommodate. Guests can access the trail from one of the following areas: Alameda Boulevard, Paseo del Norte, Montaño Road, Campbell Road, and several other locations. Enjoy scenic views of Albuquerque along the Paseo del Bosque Trail.
This paved urban trail wanders along the banks of the Rio Grande River for 16 miles through the center of town and the Rio Grande Valley State Park. It was put in place as part of an open land initiative and is just lovely— beautiful, lush vegetation, flowing water, wildlife and birds of all types and sizes help make the environment a pastoral oasis. Most of the trail is away from streets so there are no cars to contend with. If you run the whole trail you’ll pass the Rio Grande Conservation Center, Albuquerque Bio Park and the Zoo. Bosque translates to forest, so it’s shaded, mostly by cottonwoods.
Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corp, this trail is still in good shape. Under the oversight of the Cibola National Forest for the past 75 years, it’s a wide smooth multi-use trail that’s been well-maintained. It’s basically a run up the mountain and then a loop back down. Along the way, you’ll experience the heady aroma of ponderosa pine, junipers, and piñon pine. At the top, is the historic McGaffey Fire Lookout Tower. Take a moment to enjoy the panoramic view of the landscape below. Switchbacks to the top of the ridge make this run a little easier on the uphill—the downhill is just fun.
For most of the year, spring through fall, this multi-use trail is a must-run. On a mesa above the Rio Grande and Red River, it traverses the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. As you run along the canyon rim, at just about any point, there are panoramic views of the 800-foot canyon below, snowcapped peaks in the distance and the breathtaking desert plains laid out before you. It’s about a five-mile loop with a 400-foot elevation gain—all gravel, packed and smooth.
Part of a mosaic of trails that wander through the Gila National Forest, this 11-mile network is accessible year-round. Running the entire network would give you an invigorating workout. The Continental Divide cuts right through the entire running maze and connects trails to other sections of the forest. This largely unspoiled area is an outdoor tableau of majestic mountain scenery. The area is also home to lots of wildlife, including black bear and timber wolf—be on the lookout. Elevation is about 6,500 feet.
There are a number of trails in this area that actually overlook the Rio Grande River Gorge and provide stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Most of the terrain is fairly level, no huge ascents or descents. As you cross the mesa, you’ll run along the gorge, into forested areas and wide-open meadows, all the while surrounded by sagebrush, piñon, Junipers, rocks and arroyos. Accessible year-round.
]]>Located midway between Capital Reef and Canyonlands National Parks, Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park offers much of the same type of desert-hoodoo landscape formations, as well as incredible canyoning opportunities, as its neighbors. The campground is not particularly secluded or tree-lined, but it is an excellent gateway to all that the park has to offer.
Campsite 12 is a tent-only site that is set back a little away from RVs and other campers. The site includes your own shaded picnic table and a brilliant, uninterrupted view of the rock formations that Goblin Valley is known for. Not feeling like setting up and taking down your own shelter? Grab one of the yurts available for rent in the park.
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If you’ve ever been to Hawaii—or planned a trip to Hawaii—you know lodging is not cheap. A great way to avoid exorbitant lodging costs in the Aloha State is to camp. Many of the state’s parks offer excellent camping options and facilities. Those visiting the Garden Isle of Kauai will appreciate the picturesque beauty of Koke’e State Park.
Perched 4,000 feet above the lush vegetation of the Kalalau Valley, with sweeping views out to the Pacific, Koke’e offers several tent camping opportunities in campsites that have been minimally developed. In addition, several cabins are available for rental in the park if you’re hoping for a break from tent camping.
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Lake Cascade State Park in west-central Idaho comprises 86 miles of shoreline along the edge of the eponymous lake. The park is tucked into the region’s wooded mountains near the Payette National Forest. Popular with anglers, Lake Cascade is known as a prime spot for trout and salmon fishing. The surrounding area offers miles of trails for hiking, cycling and birding. The park’s 41 square miles of surface water are ideal for paddling or boating.
Dispersed primitive camping is available at several locations throughout the park. But if you’d like a few more amenities (restrooms, for example), the Blue Heron Campground is tent-only and located on a peninsula that juts out into the lack. Site G is a lakefront site that is set back an away from the other sites, so you have your own little slice of heaven.
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is just west of—and a world away from—the Bay Area megalopolis in California. It is the state’s first and oldest state park. The park’s main feature, as the name implies, is the ancient, coast redwood trees marching up and down the slopes. Blooms Creek Campground in the park affords the opportunity to sleep among these beautiful giants, which are up to 1,800 years old.
Site 153 is a hike-in site that is away from the main campground but close to a water source. It connects to the Blooms Creek Trail, which in turn, connects to many of the other trails in the park.
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Oregon’s Ainsworth State Park lies within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and encompasses spectacular natural features like Horsetail Falls and 620-ft. Multnomah Falls. There are many hiking trails in the park, itself, that take advantage of the fantastic beauty of the Gorge. The park also connects to several trails that lead to other points of interest like the majestic St. Peter’s Dome, which rises 2,000 feet over the river.
The campground at Ainsworth offers six walk-in tent sites that are set back and away from the main campground and connect to trails that allow you to avoid walking through the main part of the camping area. Any one of the sites puts you in the midst of all that the park has to offer but provides the illusion of a secluded site away from civilization.
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If you try nothing else, get the big-as-a-dinner plate homemade cinnamon roll, filled with nuts and raisins and slathered in icing. It’s the way to kick-start a day of off-roading. Comfort food is what the menu is all about: biscuits and gravy, country scrambles, pancakes and fried egg sandwiches. A cozy place that’s just like home. Only open 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. for breakfast and lunch.
There are some iconic oddities in this country that shouldn’t be missed. This is one of them. Ham, short for Holloman Aeromedical which was the lab where he was trained, was the first chimpanzee in space. He was trained to do a few simple tasks as a test to determine if humans would be able to perform the same tasks. He came through with flying colors in his 16-minute flight aboard a Mercury Redstone rocket. His reward? An apple. After that, they retired his space suit and he lived out his life in a zoo. He’s buried here, memorialized by a bronze plaque.
Flying across desert terrain, racing up-and-over sandy dunes across more than 100 miles of trails is just plain fun. This large open-ride area, which covers more than 12,000 acres, is a playground of hard-packed trails and sandy play sections. There are no fees, but a Mexico OHV permit is required. There are no facilities on-site, but the area accommodates primitive camping.
This park was named in honor of a local rancher who settled here in the 19th century. His homestead near Dog Canyon consisted of a ranch house, barns, corrals, reservoir and irrigation system. The ranch house is well-preserved and offers a glimpse of what life was like in the hot, arid desert more than 100 years ago. There are bits and pieces of the irrigation system still visible.
Get out of the desert and into the cool mountain air of for some dinner. Cowboy heritage and good grub greet you at this family-owned restaurant. Getting here on Highway 82 takes you along a scenic highway through the Sacramento Mountains and through the only road tunnel in the state. The menu highlight is the famous mesquite wood cooked barbecue, but there are plenty of other mouthwatering choices. Depending on the day, there are some all-you-can-eat specials…catfish seems to be the local favorite.
Located right smack dab in the center of town, this historic building has only eight rooms available, just enough for the ghost who hangs out here to greet every guest. It was built in the 1930s and still has much of that era’s distinctive flair. Rooms are large with rustic furniture, claw foot tubs and a few have kitchenettes and a balcony overlooking the town’s main street. The cozy beds are welcome comfort at the end of a long day.
The Albuquerque stretch of this river provides a gentle and safe place to learn how to kayak. This is a family-friendly experience on calm water with no technical rapids. The best time to float on this stretch is in the spring runoff season—it’s a little deeper than in the summer time. There are a number of places to launch, too. Generally, most river bridges have walking access to the river. Overall, this is a spectacular way to see wildlife in Albuquerque.
Nestled in the Jemez Mountains up the road from town is this beautiful, pristine lake, ringed by ponderosa pines. The vibe here is mellow. It’s a perfect place to put a kayak on the water and learn how to paddle. The Rio Cebolla meanders through the park, too. Even at 7,650 feet, the lake is easily accessible, but is at its best in spring and summer. Take your pole for some kayak fishing. You might just hook a rainbow trout.
This lake is 40 miles-long with 200 miles of shoreline. You could go from a beginner to expert kayaker paddling all 40 miles. The warm climate of southern New Mexico makes this a popular place year-round. The sandy beaches are ideal for staging prior to launching a kayak. Paddle near the dam, that regulates the Rio Grande River, and you’ll get a great perspective on the geological formation for which the lake is named (that presumably resembles an elephant).
The area of the Rio Chama, a tributary of the Rio Grande, is known for its tranquil waters, unlike the white water farther up river. It’s just right for children, seniors, and anyone who’s looking for a relaxing day on the water. Drift along past sightings of Indian petroglyphs, river animals, and some of the best birdwatching around.
This is a no-wake lake. That makes it an excellent place to kayak without the stress of boats tearing around the lake making waves. It’s located within the boundaries of the Pueblo de Cochiti Indian Reservation and was created when the Cochiti Dam, one of the largest earth-fill dams in the U.S., was constructed. There are two public areas: the Cochiti and the Tetilla Peak Recreation areas. A fun place for families looking for a first-time kayak experience with kids. There are incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, too.
]]>You certainly don’t need a custom rod to fish, but it you’re hankering for one, this is the place to go. These handmade rods are made with top-quality materials and are quality workmanship that’s built to last. You’ll also find plenty of off-the-shelf rods, plus lures, line, flies and everything else you might need to catch a fish. Classes in fly fishing, casting, fly tying, and even rod building available.
This multi-layered family-run business has been a cornerstone of the local community for 60 years. It began as a resource for fly fisherman looking for trout in the cold waters of the San Juan River. Throughout the years, it’s morphed into a full-service company catering to all types of fishermen. Product inventory includes wader, rods, reels, plus one of the largest fly selections in the area.
The town’s first fly shop is still going strong more than 30 years later. Now, with 2,500 square-feet of retail space, it’s even bigger and better. It boasts the largest selection of fly fishing equipment, tackle and outdoor clothing in all price ranges and for all levels of ability in the northern part of the state. New to the sport? They offer classes and instruction, outside, knee deep in the river. Rental equipment available.
When you start talking Canadian night crawlers, water dogs, minnows, and salmon eggs it’s a good bet you’re in a bait shop. This store bills itself as one that’s operated by fishermen for fishermen. As such, you’ll find an extensive selection of lures, a fish cleaning station, pull through boat lot, cabins and fishing guides standing by to take you to the best fishing holes. Guided fishing trips include rods, reel, tackle, fish filleting and a knowledgeable guide.
The hard-to-catch tiger muskie is prevalent at Bluewater Lake State Park. A hundred or so yards from the shore is this store, a local hangout due to the owner’s knowledge of the local fishing scene. Step inside and you’ll find bait, tackle, lures, rods, reels and other gear, plus information about where the best spots are for muskie, as well as trout. Local fishing updates posted weekly.
Whatever you need, or want, to catch a fish, you’ll find here. Located right on the main drag in town, you can’t miss the giant blue fly fishing sign. Plan on spending some time here. Once inside the store is packed wall-to-wall with clothes, rods, reels, bait, lures, line and the largest eclectic selection of flies you might every come across. A good jumping off point before heading to the river.
This mobile bait and tackle outfit will come to you. It’s fully-stocked with red wiggler worms, European night crawlers, power bait, garlic salmon eggs, plus hooks, sinkers, floats, spinners, spoons, fishing line and stringers. If you need something after hours, they’ll come to you. Rental fishing gear also available.
Situated near some of the premier fishing areas in the state, this is truly an all-service enterprise. Everything you need from flies to bait to lures, in addition to rods, reels, spinners, knives, rain gear, waders and clothes is at hand. You can also book a guided fly fishing trip that includes rod, reel, flies, food, and a local guide who knows the rivers. Take a fly fishing lesson and practice trying to catch trout, northern pike, carp, walleye and fresh water Kokanee salmon.
Explore the Pecos, Chama, Rio Grande, Brazos, and Jemez rivers with a guide well-versed in river lore. Before heading out, though, pick up any last-minute gear from a wide-ranging selection of top quality products—outdoor clothing, fishing vests, lures and flies, fly tying materials and tools, rods, reels, wading boots and more. Fly fishing and fly tying classes take place regularly.
The trick to catching a fish? Patience. And knowing the best spots. Owner Ed has been casting a line in the local rivers long enough to know where those are. In addition to an inventory of various lures, flies, bait and tying supplies, he also custom builds rods and flies to order. Plus, he’ll share his local knowledge.
]]>A visit to this park is a multi-dimensional backpacking experience. In addition to the trails accessed from the park, Cimarron is also part of the 30,000-acre Colin Neblett Wildlife Management Area which not only has miles of trails but is also the largest wildlife area in the state. Cimarron Canyon is an eight-mile stretch of spectacular cliffs, waterfalls, clear running creeks, fascinating geology, and mag-nificent wildlife viewing opportunities. Clear Creek Trail is about seven miles round-trip along the Cimarron River. The wildlife area is rugged and remote so fill your pack with enough food and water. Camping available in either area.
The Santa Fe National Forest is an extensive landscape of mountain streams and lakes, woodland wonders, wildlife spotting, cultural and historic sites, and miles of trails to explore. The East Fork Trail runs for about 10 miles through the Forest. The section from Battleship Rock to Jemez Falls and McCauley Hot Springs covers about half of it. It begins under the shadow of the enormous basalt cliff known as Battleship Rock and winds its way up through a rocky climb to McCauley Hot Springs, where the 90-degree water is surprisingly refreshing. The climb to Jemez Falls, the highest in the Jemez Mountains, is a steady uphill trek but well worth the effort. Camping at Jemez Falls on a first-come first-served basis.
There’s a lot to see in the 3.3 million acres of this forest and hundreds of miles of trails to explore. Traversing the landscape takes you through deep canyons across semi-desert terrains, up rugged mountains and mesas. Along the way, the forest world unfolds with a spread of trees that include ponderosa pine, sycamore, walnut, maple, ash, cottonwood, alder, willow, mesquite, and Apace and Chihuahua pine. Wildlife is extensive—you might see a bobcat or cougar, different species of deer, an occasional bear, and all manner of smaller mammals, birds, and reptiles. Discoveries also include hot springs, cliff dwellings, and old small towns. There are 40 campgrounds scattered around the forest.
You won’t see a lot of people in this remote section of the San Mateo Mountains. Its 18,000 acres promise a lot of adventurous solitude, though. The terrain is rough and rugged, marked trails sparse, but the land is untouched by visitors. Hot and dry in summer, beautiful in spring wildflower bloom, with a forest of piñon and juniper and pine, spruce and fir that is so silent you might just want to stay. Elevation range goes from 6,800 to 10,100 feet—at the top of Mount Withington. There are five small campgrounds in the area.
A trek through this forest could take you across three states, but if you just wanted to stay in New Mexico, there’s still more than a million and a half acres to explore. From Chihuahuan desert to a grassy prairie to a mountain forest, a trek through any part is incredible. You might see grazing herds of pronghorn deer or elk, hawks and other birds of prey soaring above, or an occasional bear or cougar. There’s an area in the forest that is home to hundreds of rare plants and animal species…you just can’t predict what you might see so keep your eyes open. Miles of trails, unmatched diversity, and a cultural history that dates back thousands of years are the rewards of time spent here. There are many campgrounds, both primitive and those with amenities.
]]>The state’s first and oldest state park is a cluster of eight unique lakes or sinkholes that range from 17 to 90 feet deep. They are not bottomless! That’s just an illusion created by the aquatic plants that give the water a greenish-blue hue that masks the depth. The park is full of recreational opportunities. Fishing is allowed in two of the lakes, Cottonwood and Devil’s Ink and you can swim, kayak or canoe in Lea Lake. Avid scuba divers come to explore the deep blue water. Camping, hiking, birding, picnicking and birding round out the activities here.
The town may be famous for alien beings, but there’s an out-of-this-world zoo here, too. The five main zoo areas cover 34 acres of parkland. You’ll wander by native animals, child-friendly animals at the children’s area, a world safari exotics section, a ranching heritage exhibit, plus there’s a miniature train and antique wooden horse carousel to ride. Free admission.
This museum, located at the Roswell International Air Center Terminal, celebrates the rich history of the squadrons based at the Roswell Army Air Field and Walker Air Force Base from the mid-1900s to its closing in 1967. Displays include historical memorabilia from the Strategic Air Command units that were stationed here. This is a fascinating museum for fans of military history.
The curtain goes up at this modest community theatre eight months of the year. The actors, all from the surrounding communities, audition for and participate in popular musical and dramatic productions. The shows are amusing evenings of entertainment that transport audience members to different periods of our cultural history and showcase well-known and well-liked literary works.
Just down the road from the park is this casual spot that serves local wines, craft beer on tap, and hard cider. The sangria on tap is a local favorite. There’s no kitchen, but on weekends you’ll find various local food trucks providing an eclectic selection of foodie fare. This oasis in the desert is the perfect place to unwind.
Rolling a bowling ball down the alley and getting a strike is a jump-for-joy feeling. Even if you don’t roll a strike, bowling here is all about making the experience fun for the whole family. Plenty of bowling balls to choose from in all weights and sizes. A great grill with hamburgers, fries and pizza that is an unexpected delicious surprise. A lounge for adults and an arcade for kids. Can’t ask for more than that.
After a long day of sightseeing, dinner at a classic steak house with an everything imaginable salad bar is an ideal end to the day. For more than 40 years, this restaurant has been serving the best steak salad, seafood, and prime rib on both sides of the Pecos River. Kick off the meal with green chile wontons and finish with fried ice cream and the day is complete. Great ambience and friendly service.
Check this eclectic consignment store out…you just never know when you might stumble onto the find of the century. It’s chockfull of antiques, collectibles, and pieces of art from around the world. You might come across an Art Deco lamp or Depression-era glass or tchotchkes from the 1950s. You just never know, until you look, what treasure you’ll find that you can’t live without!
What a charming revitalized downtown full of a mixed bag of retail, business, restaurants, art groups, and assorted other shops. A member of the Main Street America accredited program, this historic downtown area is the heartbeat of the city, providing a destination for residents and visitors, alike. It’s a delightful place to wander and check in with the local community.
A visit to Roswell just wouldn’t be complete without an alien interaction…something the area is infamous for. This museum boasts a comprehensive collection of information on the incident that happened in 1947, plus all aspects of UFO phenomenon. Open every day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. The gift shop is overflowing with distinctive memorabilia showcasing the extraterrestrial nature to the region.
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Birds flock to this area because of the diverse habitat of the Rio Grande Gorge. There’s the river, of course, plus cottonwood groves, willows, tamarisk, piñon trees, and springs along the canyon walls. The Las Minas Trail takes you to several overlooks above the gorge with views of the river and surrounding cliffs. Be on the lookout for golden eagles and peregrine falcons, it’s a breeding area for both species. You might also spy piñon jay, canyon wren, rock wren, bushtit and the common American dipper.
This is a birder’s paradise. As a designated Important Bird Area, there are hundreds of birds that live and migrate through this region just north of Santa Fe. Access is free. There are miles of trails in this 135-acre sanctuary, bordered by the Santa Fe National Forest and the Santa Fe River Watershed. Popular sightings include the spotted and canyon towhee, hairy woodpecker, black-headed grosbeak and hummingbirds, nuthatches, juncos, and chickadees. It’s a beautiful tribute to ornithologist John James Audubon and his love for his feathered friends.
This small natural oasis in the Chihuahuan Desert is inside Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The number of birds spotted in this arid region is considerable. Stands of cottonwood trees, desert scrub, and a damp marsh bring an eclectic assortment. The trail makes a circle around the springs. At any given time, you might see yellow-billed cuckoo, black phoebe, vermilion flycatcher, bell’s vireo, painted bunting, and even a red cardinal. Migratory birds laying over include Williamson’s sapsucker and the worm-eating warbler. Nesting gray hawks inhabit the area as do many wild turkeys. Bird spotters post sightings at the visitor’s center bulletin board.
Established in 1937, this significant wetland area is home to a winter layover for more than 350 birds. There are four short hikes in and around the refuge headquarters, plus trails that take you into the adjacent wilderness area. One trail to a loop of the Pecos River is particularly good for viewing. Thousands of geese and ducks, from a variety of species, winter here, as do sandhill cranes in large numbers. Shorebirds, like greater yellowlegs, western sandpiper, long-billed dowitcher and the snowy plover rest and feed here before heading back to coastal homes. Quite often flocks of American white pelicans are present, as well as osprey. Nesting birds include white-faced ibis, Virginia rail, Wilson’s phalarope and scaled quail. The visitor center has maps and birding information.
The Sandia Mountains are situated in southwestern New Mexico, with its highest peak reaching 10,679 feet. Its high elevation provides a unique opportunity to view wildlife you might not otherwise see in lower areas of New Mexico. From pinyon-juniper to coniferous forest, the diversity of natural space in the Sandia Mountains is captivating. This is a great place to see gray-crowned rosy finch, black rosy finch, and brown-capped rosy finch. Birders may also get a look at band-tailed pigeons, white-throated swifts, American three-toed woodpeckers, cordilleran flycatchers, mountain chickadees, ruby-crowned kinglets, and much more.
]]>Located on the banks of the Pecos River with native cottonwood trees that create a canopy of shade, this lovely and somewhat remote park is the perfect getaway for hiking, camping, fishing, birding, swimming, picking wildflowers or just relaxing. The view from the bluff overlooking the Pecos, which flows through the valley below, is a color palette of red and yellow sandstone. At 5,600 feet, you can experience the seasonal changes—it gets cold in winter, warm in summer, and beautiful in spring and fall. With 1,600 acres, it’s a great place to wander.
Although the road into the park can be a little daunting, depending on your vehicle, once you reach the park there are two camping areas to choose from. There are 33 total camp sites, a dozen of which have electricity. Reservations are taken for some of the larger sites with hookups and those that are few pull-through. Tent camping areas near the river have adobe shelters over the picnic area. Restrooms with showers and electricity are nearby. There’s a fun playground for kids but keep in mind the mesa campground is closed in winter.
There are three miles of hiking trails with a few moderate climbs at Villanueva. The Viewpoint Loop Trail is an up-and-down that takes you along the river and up to the mesa through some sand and hard-scrabble and then loops back down to the river. Along the way there are Spanish ruins and an old grain threshing pit. El Cerro is shorter, but steeper at some points until you reach a gentle climb to an overlook. Finally, the River Trail is just that. From the lower campground, you head across a bridge for about a quarter of a mile along the banks of the Pecos, under the cottonwoods, around a couple of bends, and then turn around and head back to camp.
From the mesa campground, or if you hike to the top of the Viewpoint Loop Trail from the lower campground, there’s an overlook that provides a panoramic view of the picturesque Pecos Valley. The town of Villanueva was first named La Cuesta, which means hill in Spanish, and from this vista you’ll see the steep slopes of the hills that gave the town its name. Agriculture dominates the valley and you might spot pecan trees in the distance or rows of the famous New Mexico green chiles.
The nearby town of Villanueva, founded in the 1790s is worth spending some time in. Most of the buildings were made of adobe and many are still in fairly good shape. The first Mexican set-tlers built miles of irrigation ditches to help with farming which are still in use today. In town, stop by the Lady of Guadalupe Church built of local rock in the early 1800s, an impressive edi-fice for such a small town. Step through the hand-carved double front doors to see the 275-foot colcha, or tapestry, 41 panels hand-stitched by local women that capture the history and religious life of the community.
While in town, check out the old-fashioned general store. It’s one of those places where time seems to have stopped, a small-town, homey, neighborly mercantile where you can find things you need, and some you don’t, but you’ll always find a friendly face behind the counter. Grab a cup of hot coffee for the road. The local owners also make their own smoked beef sausage and applesauce. Be sure to ask.
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