By Jason Brick
New
Mexico, the "Land of Enchantment," has something for everybody. Visitors can climb a 1,000-foot rock face, visit ancient Native American Ruins or ski a world-famous slope. While planning your trip, don't miss these six opportunities to get to know this fascinating desert wonderland.
Chaco Canyon
From 850 to 1250 AD, this serene desert canyon was the center of Pueblo culture. Today it offers hiking, camping and historical exploration to anybody who ventures the 160-mile drive from Albuquerque, many miles of which are on unimproved, unpaved roads.
Sandia Mountain
Forming the eastern border of the city of Albuquerque, this shield wall mountain reaches a height of 10,678 feet. The sheer west wall offers many routes for traditional rock climbing, while the gentle east slope is filled with beautiful hiking trails. A tram ride to the top offers a unique view of the city below. Skiing and snowboarding are available during the winter.
Taos Ski Valley
Ski Taos! Folks come from Switzerland and New Zealand to do just that. Located just outside famous mountain artists colony, Outside magazine rated this the 3rd best ski area in North America. It's just 132 miles north of Albuquerque.
Carlsbad Caverns
One of the largest and most complex cavern complexes in the world lies 300 miles southeast of Albuquerque. If it's your first visit, be sure to book one of many tours-there will be one perfect for your age and fitness level. Be advised there are no baby strollers permitted in the caverns, so bring a backpack or sling for your littlest one.
Roswell
In the summer of 1947, something crashed just outside of Roswell, New Mexico, some 200 miles southeast of Albuquerque. The government tells us it was a weather balloon, but a lot of people say it was a UFO. Visit the International UFO Museum to view documents and photos, then decide for yourself.
Santa Fe
New Mexico's capitol, Santa Fe gives visitors a chance to walk narrow, cobbled streets and visit artifacts of the region's wild west past. You won't find saloons and recreated shootouts, but rather mission churches and museums. It's just 63 miles north of Albuquerque.
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About the Author:
Jason Brick has written professionally since 1994. His work has appeared in numerous venues including "Hand Held Crime" and "Black Belt Magazine." He has completed hundreds of technical and business articles, and came to full-time writing after a long career teaching martial arts. Brick received a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Oregon.
