Adjacent to the windswept plains of North America, the landscape begins to take on a uniquely western appearance, and the primeval qualities of the vast frontier echo an ancient song for all to hear.
If you’re looking for an adventurous road trip and you’ve never been to New Mexico, you’re in for a treat. This is a land that boasts many wonders, bizarre rock formations, and history literally etched in the rock by the ancient Puebloans who once called the region home.
New Mexico holds a vastness unmatched by most of its western neighbors. And you might even feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, into an era when simplicity rang as true as the gnarled Juniper clings to the arid ground.
If you’re looking for a road trip like no other, the following will detail a few sites that you must visit while on the road in New Mexico.
In a remote stretch of land in northwestern New Mexico, you can visit Chaco Culture Center. This is home to the remains of an ancient Puebloan settlement that thrived between 850 and 1250 CE, and many of the remaining structures are remarkably intact.
Before you head out to Chaco Canyon, you’re going to need to ensure that your vehicle is running in tip-top condition as there are no paved roads leading into or out of the canyon. And these roads can be a bit rough, full of deep ruts and grooves.
Further, it’s wise to drive slowly around the many sweeping curves leading into the canyon as you don’t want to be involved in an auto collision in such a remote area. Just in case, it might be a good idea to make sure you’re up on your insurance, and to have the contact information of an experienced lawyer who can help you recoup your losses.
But when you enter, you’ll be delighted at the primitive camping sites which are widely available. And among the rock you’re likely to find the petroglyphs that tell the story of a culture long departed from the region.
Perhaps one of the most enchanting regions in New Mexico is that of Santa Fe. And once you set your eyes on the amazing vistas here you’ll likely understand why this is the oldest city west of the Mississippi. In fact, Santa Fe has been populated since 1607, making it the second oldest city in the United States.
But Santa Fe offers much more than a rich and diverse history. This region is also a haven for artists and spiritual seekers from around the country and the world.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider Santa Fe’s La Fonda on the Plaza. This century-old traveler’s gem overlooks the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi, a local icon that is often heavily photographed.
In addition, take a tour through the local hiking trails that arrive at the most remarkable vistas to view at sunset, an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
If Agent Fox Mulder and the X-Files were ever a part of your guilty pleasure, Roswell is perhaps a definitive Mecca for UFO enthusiasts across the United States.
What’s been called the “Roswell Incident” was a highly publicized event back in 1947. And though conspiracy theories regarding this event range from the simple to the bizarre, the fact remains that Roswell has capitalized on this event and the town is literally teeming with extra-terrestrial propaganda.
While in Roswell, check out the International UFO Museum and Research Center, a place where you’re likely to find UFO enthusiasts and skeptics of all ages.
But if local culture is more your speed, consider visiting Roswell Museum and Art Center which displays the rich southwestern traditions and artwork of ancient Puebloans and modern natives.
New Mexico easily lives up to its name as the “Land of Enchantment” but if one thing is certain, you need to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy this region. Taking just one or two days may not be enough, so consider an extended stay and explore to your heart’s content.
