Embark on a journey through the enchanting landscapes of New Mexico with our guide to the 13 Best National Parks & Monuments. Uncover the natural wonders and cultural treasures that make these destinations a must-visit.
Embark on an underground odyssey at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Marvel at the breathtaking stalactite formations as you explore the mysterious depths of this subterranean wonder.
Step into the ancient past at Bandelier National Monument, where cliff dwellings and petroglyphs provide a glimpse into the lives of the ancestral Pueblo people. Hike through the canyons and immerse yourself in history.
Surrender to the allure of endless white dunes at White Sands National Park. The world's largest gypsum dunefield invites you to sled down pristine slopes and witness mesmerizing sunsets.
Uncover the artistry of ancient cultures at Petroglyph National Monument. Thousands of petroglyphs adorn volcanic rocks, telling stories that transcend time. A fascinating blend of nature and history awaits.
5. Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Journey to Chaco Culture National Historical Park and explore the celestial observatories and great kivas of the Chacoan people. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the sophistication of ancient civilizations.
Immerse yourself in the living history of Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO-listed site inhabited for over a thousand years. Wander through multi-story adobe dwellings and experience the rich traditions of the Taos people.
Venture into the Gila Wilderness to discover the cliff dwellings of ancient Mogollon communities. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument offers a glimpse into the resilient lives of its past inhabitants.
Ascend the rim of a dormant volcano at Capulin Volcano National Monument. The panoramic views from the summit unveil the diverse landscapes that define this region.
Traverse the dramatic terrain of El Malpais National Monument, where ancient lava flows and unique geological features create a landscape unlike any other. Hiking trails lead you through this rugged, yet captivating, wilderness.
Step into the remnants of an ancient Puebloan community at Aztec Ruins National Monument. The meticulously preserved structures offer a glimpse into the architectural prowess of the ancestral Pueblo people.
Relive the days of the Santa Fe Trail at Fort Union National Monument. Explore the adobe ruins and gain insight into the military history that shaped the American Southwest.
12. Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
Discover the cultural crossroads of Spanish and Puebloan peoples at Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. The picturesque mission churches stand as testaments to the blending of two distinct cultures.
Step into the footsteps of Spanish explorers and Civil War soldiers at Pecos National Historical Park. The ruins of Pecos Pueblo and the mission church showcase the layers of history embedded in this sacred site.