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NEW MEXICO INSPIRATIONS | Nature
Tens of thousands of acres of New Mexico are public land. This means that the state's natural beauty is easily explored. New Mexico's landscape is famous for its diversity and contrast. While deep blue mountains rise above red rolling hills, the Rio Grande cuts its path through the center of the state, and everywhere remnants of the state's volcanoes form striking shapes. New Mexico's scenic splendor is one of its most priceless treasures.
White SandsIdeas of Places to Visit: Past
Northern New Mexico
• Nambe Falls. On the Nambe Pueblo, these lovely waterfalls on a lake are the perfect spot for a picnic. Near Santa Fe.
• Wheeler Peak. At an elevation of 13,161 feet, Wheeler Peak, New Mexico's highest mountain, towers above the town of Taos. It is possible to hike to the top of the mountain and there are many popular trails for hiking and biking in the surrounding wilderness.
• Volcanoes. Many of New Mexico's most striking landmarks were formed by ancient volcanoes. Among the most visible in northern New Mexico are Black Mesa on San Ildefonso Pueblo, and Pedernal, which artist Georgia O'Keeffe painted many times. Capulin Volcano National Monument near Raton has interesting hiking trails. It is the easternmost volcano in America.
• O'Keeffe Country. The red hills and cliffs around Abiquiú were made famous by O'Keeffe's paintings. There is a lake in the area and many hiking and biking trails.
• Valles Caldera National Preserve. This area of the Jemez Mountains was formed by the prehistoric explosion of one of North America's largest volcanoes, and the caldera is the largest in the world. It features flat, grassy meadows surrounded by mountain peaks and abundant wildlife, including herds of elk and deer. Near Los Alamos.
• Galisteo. This traditional village, south of Santa Fe, is now home to many artists. Distinctive rock formations near the town create a unique scenic environment.
• Ojo Caliente. Native Americans used the warm mineral springs at Ojo Caliente for centuries. There is now a small town and a spa that features several types of natural mineral baths. In northern New Mexico.
• Rio Grande Gorge. The Rio Grande River cuts a deep channel through the earth near Taos. Designated a Wild and Scenic River, it is a popular area for river rafting.
• Four Corners. The borders of New Mexico, Colorado, Utah and Arizona meet at one spot. It is possible to sit or stand in all four states.
• Sacred Peaks. Ship Rock, near the four corners, and Mt. Taylor, near Grants, play important roles in Navajo religion.
• Chama. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad narrow-gauge, steam-driven train carries passengers on excursions through the Carson National Forest.
• Bisti Badlands. Erosion has produced a weird landscape with rock formations that look like giant mushrooms. Near Farmington.
Central New Mexico
• El Malpais National Monument. Named "badlands" by Spanish travelers who found the sharp lava flows nearly impossible to cross, this area has many remarkable features. There are lava flows from more than 30 volcanoes, along with bluffs, arches, and lava caves. Near Grants.
• New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. This museum houses the bones of dinosaurs that once lived in New Mexico. It is the best place to learn about the state's interesting geology. In Albuquerque.
Southern New Mexico
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Deep underground, this enormous complex of caverns is decorated with an array of beautiful limestone formations.
• White Sands National Monument. These sparkling sand dunes of pure white gypsum look like miles and miles of beach. Near Alamogordo.
• Gila Wilderness. There are mountain peaks, canyons, and streams to explore in this large wilderness area. Near Silver City.
Ideas of Places to Visit: Present
Although New Mexico's natural wonders were formed in the distant past, wildlife abounds in many contemporary locations.
• Randall Davey Audubon Center. This nature center features gardens, wildlife, and hiking trails. Many unusual migrating birds have been spotted visiting the center. In Santa Fe.
• Gardens. New Mexico gardeners integrate native plants with those from other areas. Gardening in an arid state is a special talent. There are many wonderful private and public garden examples around the state.
• Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Tens of thousands of birds, including cranes, eagles, and snow geese, arrive at this marshy area from all over North America in the fall. Near Socorro.
• Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park. This interpretive center contains gardens and wildlife native to the Chihuahuan Desert in southern New Mexico. Near Carlsbad
