Las Cruces - Visiting El Paso

I had to visit El Paso to travel for work as it had the closest airport, but I also wanted to visit El Paso because of its geographical proximity to the Mexican border. You hear about the rate of crime there, and its featured in Breaking Bad, so why the heck not! Plus Las Cruces didn't have a Costco, and I was very much addicted to buying vegetables in bulk.

Located only an hour from my place in Las Cruces, El Paso seemed like a good day trip. I decided to head out early and first stop at the Murchison Rogers Park that promised a fantastic view of two countries.  When I arrived there, the gate to the road leading to the view point was closed. Apparently, on some weekends they do that to allow the locals to walk on the road without having to deal with cars. That was a great idea, so I parked in the lot next to the gate and walked to the scenic spot. 

Indeed, it was rather scenic. I guess I didn't expect El Paso to have any spots like this at all.

After about an hour walking the road I headed to another spot of interest Chamizal National Memorial, a place that beautifully bridges the gap between history and natural beauty. It's not your typical national park; instead, it's a symbol of peaceful cooperation between the United States and Mexico. The park's main attraction is the Chamizal Cultural Center, which hosts exhibitions and events that showcase the rich cultural heritage of this border region. The visitor center goes deeper in details of the symbolic nature of the monument. Chamizal National Monument is historically significant for its role in resolving a longstanding and contentious border dispute between the United States and Mexico. The Chamizal dispute, which had its roots in the shifting Rio Grande riverbed, led to tensions and occasional conflicts between the two countries over the boundary. The disagreement persisted for over a century, but the landmark Chamizal Treaty of 1963 finally settled the matter.

The treaty ensured that the border would be redefined according to the river's current course, granting a portion of the disputed land to Mexico and providing compensation to individuals on both sides who were affected by the border shift. The monument commemorates this diplomatic triumph, symbolizing peaceful conflict resolution and international cooperation. It serves as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy in addressing complex border issues and stands as a symbol of unity and goodwill between the United States and Mexico. The Chamizal National Monument not only preserves this historical legacy but also educates visitors about the significance of diplomacy in resolving international disputes and maintaining peaceful relations between neighboring nations.

Mexico is right across the fence

At the visitor center

After visiting the monument, I was going to walk around downtown El Paso. I parked and grabbed a coffee, but decided against actually spending time there. The homelessness was very visible there. I had two places in mind where I wanted to grab lunch but the first one seemed to be gone and the second one didn't look very inviting. While I like to experience the authentic restaurants, Jalisco Cafe looked from both inside and outside a bit like a dump. Food poisoning was not on my agenda.

I ended up spending just half a day in El Paso and then headed home. What struck me the most is how unkept the city was outside downtown. I have never seen as much broken glass as I saw on the streets of El Paso. Regular trash was on every street. It was kind of sad to verify that the stereotypes have reasons to exist.

Las Cruces - Cloudcroft and Hiking

There was a lot of hiking in Las Cruces, but I wanted to see the "mountain" towns as well. One of the towns that was recommended to me was Cloudcroft. 

Nestled in the picturesque Sacramento Mountains of southern New Mexico, Cloudcroft is a charming mountain village that captivates visitors with its serene beauty and alpine allure. Known for its crisp mountain air and scenic vistas, Cloudcroft sits at an elevation of over 8,600 feet, offering a refreshing escape from the heat of the surrounding desert. The village is surrounded by the Lincoln National Forest, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching. Cloudcroft's quaint downtown exudes a rustic charm with its historic buildings and welcoming shops, making it a delightful destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

I was seeking both hiking and village exploration in addition to a retreat from the summer heat. I hiked 2 shorter trails there. Osha trail was a short 2.5 mile trail with minimal 400 ft elevation gain that felt more like 1000 given the altitude. It was more of a hike in the forest as it has just a few view points.

The second trail Old Cloudcroft Highway Trail Loop was just as long but with an extra 100 ft elevation gain. It was another hike in the forest with some views opening up in the beginning of the hike.

After a bit of hiking I went to the town to grab lunch and decided to visit a tasting room. It's been a while since I have had wine! The town reminded me of Idyllwild and Big Bear in California. Idyllwild has a closer geographic connection to the metropolitan areas of Southern California, making it a more accessible weekend getaway for residents of Los Angeles and San Diego. Cloudcroft, on the other hand, is situated in a more secluded area, offering a quieter and potentially more remote experience. Also, Cloudcroft's higher elevation (over 8,600 feet) gives it a cooler climate and occasional winter snowfall, making it a destination for winter sports enthusiasts, whereas Idyllwild generally experiences milder winters. Both towns feature charming downtown areas with shops and eateries, but the local culture and community vibes may vary. Idyllwild is known for its vibrant arts scene, hosting numerous galleries and music festivals, while Cloudcroft exudes a rustic, Old West charm with its historic buildings and a focus on outdoor activities.

Cloudcroft, NM

Overall, it was a great day trip. It might be nice to celebrate winter holidays here as I remember it was in Big Bear.

I did a few other hikes as well while in Las Cruces. Soledad Canyon Loop was less than 10 minutes away from my place, so I couldn't not visit it! It was a short 3.5 mile hike with some elevation gain, but the highlight for me was the turnaround point where water was trickling from the mountain. The sound it made echoed everywhere making it seem bigger that it was. There was also a sense of complete isolation being surrounded by the mountains (until more people came...).

Prior to going to do this hike I was planning on hiking Shelter Caves but when I got near the trailhead, I knew that my car would not make it as the road was washed out. I decided to do this trail later in the day by parking just down the road and walking towards the trailhead. I didn't realize that it would add another 2.5 miles in the scorching heat but it was too late to back down. I didn't regret it. The hike was beautiful, although much harder than the first one. I did not do the full trail that extended even further from the first cave, but the views were very nice regardless, and I felt like I had had enough hiking for one day.

Las Cruces - Sunrises, Sunsets and Thunderstorms

With a backdrop of rugged mountains and vast desert landscapes, Las Cruces offers a unique setting for witnessing the sun's daily voyage across the sky. 

Las Cruces is celebrated for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas, and the main reason is the mesmerizing play of colors. With the Organ Mountains to the east and the sprawling desert to the west, the sky is a canvas that transforms into a spectrum of hues. At sunrise, you'll witness the gradual emergence of warm shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a serene and rejuvenating atmosphere. As the sun rises higher, it casts a soft, golden glow across the valley, making the desert flora and mountain peaks come alive.

Sunsets in Las Cruces are equally captivating. The western horizon becomes a canvas for vibrant shades of red, pink, and purple, casting a spellbinding reflection on the Organ Mountains. The transition from day to night paints a picture of serenity and wonder that leaves a lasting impression.

Best Spots to View Sunrises and Sunsets

Las Cruces offers a plethora of fantastic vantage points to witness its incredible sunrises and sunsets. Here are some of the must-visit locations:

Aguirre Springs: Located in the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, this area offers unmatched panoramic views of the sunrise and sunset. The rugged terrain provides a dramatic foreground for your viewing pleasure.

Dripping Springs Natural Area: This serene natural area in the foothills of the Organ Mountains is perfect for sunrise and sunset viewing. Take a leisurely hike to witness the sun's enchanting journey.

Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park: Nestled along the Rio Grande, this park provides an idyllic setting to view sunsets. The wetlands and riverbanks create stunning reflections of the setting sun.

A Mountain: As the highest peak in the Organ Mountains, it provides unparalleled 360-degree views. Sunrise and sunset at A Mountain are sure to leave you awestruck.

While Las Cruces may not be famous for its frequent storms, when they do arrive, they transform the sky and landscape into a mesmerizing spectacle. In this blog post, we'll explore the unique beauty of thunderstorms in Las Cruces, from the electrifying lightning displays to the life-giving rain that rejuvenates the desert terrain.

One of the most captivating aspects of thunderstorms in Las Cruces is the breathtaking lightning shows that illuminate the night sky. With the Organ Mountains serving as a striking backdrop, the electrical discharge of thunderstorms creates a dazzling display of lights that pierces the darkness. The stark contrast of the jagged bolts against the mountain silhouette is a sight to behold.

What makes Las Cruces thunderstorms particularly enchanting is the dry air, which allows for clearer, more vibrant lightning displays. These lightning shows, accompanied by the low rumble of thunder echoing across the desert, create an electrifying atmosphere that awes and inspires residents and visitors alike.

While the thunder and lightning steal the show, the rainfall that accompanies Las Cruces thunderstorms is equally captivating. In a place where water is a precious resource, the scent of rain on the desert's thirsty soil is intoxicating. The petrichor, that earthy fragrance produced when raindrops hit dry ground, is a reminder of nature's resilience and the life-giving power of water in the desert.

The rain not only rejuvenates the landscape, but it also brings an ephemeral burst of vibrant green to the once arid desert floor. Wildflowers bloom, cacti swell with water, and the entire ecosystem seems to awaken from its slumber.

Las Cruces experiences a summer monsoon season, typically from July to September, when thunderstorms become a regular occurrence. This season of transformation is eagerly anticipated by locals who understand its importance in maintaining the delicate balance of desert life.

I truly enjoyed the nature in New Mexico. There is something magnificent in the landscapes and variability of weather. Las Cruces was the best for sunsets, and I will remember them for a while!

Las Cruces - White Sands National Park

I had to make a separate post about White Sands National Park!

Nestled in the heart of New Mexico, lies a unique and mesmerizing natural wonder. White Sands National Park is a captivating desert landscape that stands out for its unparalleled beauty. This unique park is renowned for its vast expanse of glistening, white gypsum sand dunes. With over 275 square miles of desert wilderness to explore, White Sands is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers.

White Sands is not your typical desert. What makes it truly remarkable is the presence of gypsum sand, which gives the dunes their striking, almost otherworldly, white appearance.

An activity that often surprises visitors is sand sledding. Yes, you heard it right! At White Sands National Park, you can sled down the dunes, much like snow sledding. I have to say I did none of that, well, intentionally.

For photographers, White Sands National Park is a dream come true. The stark contrast between the white sand and the vivid colors of the sunset creates a perfect opportunity for stunning photographs. Although I didn't get to experience the park at the sunrise/sunset, I did see a bunch of professional photography taking place. Luckily, with all heavy equipment they could not hike the dunes too far giving me the place to myself.

Fresh sand - nobody was here today before me!

White Sands is also home to a variety of unique wildlife adapted to this extreme environment. From the elusive white-tailed antelope ground squirrels to the resilient kit foxes, the park provides a sanctuary for some remarkable creatures. Sadly, I didn't get to see many creatures, just a few lizards.

For those seeking a unique camping experience, White Sands National Park allows backcountry camping. I believe that overnight camping was not allowed at the time I visited, but it might have changed by the time you read this.

I also got the "feet-in-the-sand" experience. On the last trail, I took off my sneakers and socks and walked a bit feeling the sand with my feet. It was surprisingly not very hot, maybe because it reflected sunlight being white. I genuinely enjoyed it!

White Sands National Park is a place of serene beauty and unparalleled wonder. Whether you're drawn to the unique geology, outdoor activities, photography opportunities, or the park's rich history, White Sands has something to offer everyone.

Las Cruces, New Mexico - Beautiful Casita in the Middle of the Desert

My recent travel adventure from Albuquerque to Las Cruces turned out to be an unforgettable journey filled with stunning landscapes, peaceful moments, and newfound comfort zones. As I ventured closer to the Mexican border in the scorching Southwestern heat, I couldn't help but marvel at the transformation that had taken place in my perception of unfamiliar terrains and the joy I found in embracing new experiences.

My drive to Las Cruces took nearly four hours on yet another sweltering day in New Mexico. With El Paso, Texas, just an hour away, I arrived at my destination around 3:30 PM, right after the check-in time at my charming casita. To reach it, I had to traverse a half-mile stretch of dirt road covered in gravel. Although slightly bumpy, it was a far cry from the intimidating five-mile gravel road in Santa Fe, a testament to how much my boundaries and comfort zone had expanded over the years.

The casita I stayed in was a delightful surprise. Impeccably clean and adorned with vibrant New Mexican-style décor, it featured high ceilings that enhanced its overall appeal. Multiple tall windows offered panoramic views of the mountains, and since the property was quite spacious with no nearby houses, my vistas were unobstructed. An added bonus was the backyard, complete with a couple of chairs and a table. It didn't take long for my feline companion, Kitty, to make himself at home, choosing to lounge on a chest of drawers right beneath a colossal window.

View from the living room

Living room

Kitchen

Most comfortable bed

View towards the bathroom from the bedroom area

Beautiful view outside

Kitty's new lounging area

One of the most striking features of Las Cruces was its serene tranquility. It was so quiet that I could hear myself breathing. On my first day, I embarked on a leisurely walk toward a nearby trail. The journey began on the gravel road but soon led me to a paved main road that was, curiously, a dead-end with minimal traffic. There were hardly any cars passing by, and even neighborhood dogs remained uncharacteristically quiet. After a short stroll along the trail, I decided to return to my casita, eager to explore more in the days to come.

Las Cruces had a unique gift to offer—spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Never before had I witnessed such breathtaking displays of colors and light during these magical hours of the day. The promise of more of these mesmerizing moments beckoned, especially with the weekend approaching and a multitude of hiking trails within a 10-minute drive.

My journey to Las Cruces was not just a travel experience; I gained newfound appreciation for the beauty of the Southwest, and the allure of unspoiled nature. As I anticipated the weekend ahead and the adventures it held, I knew that Las Cruces had more in store for me. Stay tuned for my exploration of the captivating trails and natural wonders that make this part of New Mexico truly exceptional.

Cultural Side of Albuquerque - Flamenco, Old Town and a bit of Wine Tasting

I didn't expect much from Albuquerque when it came to the cultural activities. In fact, I heard that the city has little to offer, but I have to say that I was impressed by the variety of activities you could do there. From attending a show to dining in a nice restaurant, from roller skating to wine tasting (not in that order), I found there were activities that offered diverse experiences. 

One of my favorites was a Flamenco Tablao performance at Hotel Albuquerque Old Town. Three men and two women show. One man is the singer, another one plays the instrument and the rest are dancers. And they are Dancers with a capital "D". The rhythm of the performance, its uniqueness was spectacular. Price fix dinner was also pretty decent, but definitely not the highlight of the evening.

The hotel itself was luxurious. No wonder that weddings are held there!

Old Town was a unique place on its own. It reminded me of Santa Fe's downtown with multiple shops and restaurants. I walked there a few times during my stay in ABQ. Blackbird coffee became my favorite coffee shop. The variety of drinks they offer will meet anyone's sophisticated palate, yet it is non-assuming and down to earth. A restaurant that didn't look overly attractive from the outside turned out to be a gem when it came to food. High Noon Restaurant had an interesting menu with a variety of meat options. While I typically stay away from meat, I tried a few dishes that I really enjoyed.

Brie Empanadas - by far one of my favorite dishes!

Don't remember the name, but it was also delicious!

I also came across a Breaking Bad memorabilia store with so many authentic items that were displayed in a museum separately from the store.

While not in Old Town, there are a few wineries just outside the main part of the city. Gruet Winery is located just off the highway. It is a fancy tasting room with a small outdoor area, but since it is right next to the highway it lacks the ambiance. Their wines were very good though. Casa Rodena, on the other hand, was right in the middle of the vineyard. The tasting room had a very nice outdoor area with a pond. It definitely reminded me of wineries in NC and CA, and their wines were also great. I was impressed by NM wines in general. I did not anticipate that they would be even comparable to CA wines.

Another "must-do" activity in ABQ is the Sandia Peak Tram that travels up Sandia Mountains from the west side. The trip is only 15 minutes each way but the views are incredible. There are a few hiking trails on top as well.

Departing the parking lot

Views while traveling in the tram

Views from one of the trails overlooking ABQ

Besides the views and good food, there is a lot of history in the area. I visited two sites that are part of Salinas Pueblo Missions - Abo and Quarai. Both sites are off the beaten path so I saw just one person there. That also added to the overall feel of the places - isolated, almost abandoned (yet maintained) ruins of buildings and churches.

Quarai

Abo

My overall impression is that you can find activities you enjoy in ABQ. While you might have to look a bit more thoroughly, the city does offer a variety of things to do both from a cultural side and food-wise.