Located right across the Mexican city of Ciudad Juarez, the western tip of Texas is a mixture of cultures and a great base to explore the region. If you have a free day and want to get away from city life, there are several destinations you can reach in less than a couple of hours by car. Whether it’s with friends, family, or solo, check out these destinations for amazing day trips!
1. Lincoln National Forest, NM
In the south of the state of New Mexico, the Lincoln National Forest is a popular destination for visitors from Albuquerque and other nearby cities both in the United States and across the border in Mexico. The forest was established in 1902, spanning more than one million acres and covering several mountain ranges, forests, grasslands, and deserts. From the San Jacinto Plaza, the entrance to the Lincoln National Forest is a little over two hours away by car.
This destination is perfect for those who want to see the typical landscapes of the Southeast, complete with impressive canyons, lookout towers, and hiking trails that are visited by thousands of travelers every year. Some of the most popular activities include horse riding, mountain biking, wild camping and even skiing in the winter months. There are several designated picnic areas with public toilets, water, and grills to cook your own meals.
2. White Sands National Park
If you want to see one of the most impressive landscapes in the region, the White Sands National Park in southern New Mexico is a perfect day trip destination for inhabitants of the surrounding cities. It covers more than 140,000 acres of territory and several dunes of gypsum sand that reach heights of more than 60 feet and provide a landscape that seems to belong to a different planet.
Apart from the impressive landscapes, the White Sands National Park is also home to hundreds of unique species of animals. Most of these species are invertebrates, including several spiders, insects, and the Maricopa harvester ant, which is believed to have the most toxic venom on the planet. Although most visitors come during the summer, this is a perfect destination year-round, with beautiful sunsets and incredible views.
3. Franklin Mountains State Park
Located less than half an hour’s drive away from the central San Jacinto Plaza, the Franklin Mountains State Park is the closest natural escape from the city and a perfect destination for recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and scenic driving. For a short day trip with family or friends, this is perhaps the best option. In the park, there are several designated picnic areas and hiking trails that are particularly popular during the weekends.
Now that you’ve got some suggestions, it should be a piece of cake to plan a day of outdoors adventuring after a short car ride to any of these awesome places. Maybe take turns visiting all – and then choose your favorite!
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