El Paso is a city with a lot to offer. Surrounded by monuments and brimming with culture and history, it’s one of the hidden gems of Texas. If you’ve already experienced everything that El Paso has to offer, don’t fret. Within a short drive, you’ll find plenty of destinations and attractions that are well worth the effort.
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Las Cruces, New Mexico
Located 45 minutes north of El Paso on Interstate 10 is the City of Las Cruces. While there isn’t much to see on the drive outside of the open desert, once you arrive in Las Cruces, you have tons of options. If you’re into history and the outdoors, take a trip to Prehistoric Trackways National Monument. Hiking treks take you across tracts of land traversed by amphibians, reptiles, and other wildlife over 280 million years ago, even predating dinosaurs.
History buffs shouldn’t miss out on the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces. Here you can dive into New Mexico’s farming history, which dates back over 3,000 years. Interactive exhibits and videos bring everything to life before your eyes. Finish off your journey with a stop at La Nueva Casita Cafe, which serves up some of the best authentic Mexican food in the Southwest.
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White Sands National Monument
If you’re a photographer, nothing beats a visit to White Sands National Monument, located 100 miles north of El Paso. Known for its rare white sand dunes made from gypsum, White Sands has several self-guided trails through the park. Along the way, plaques discuss the reasons for the monument’s existence and the wildlife and plants that call the area home. If you’re looking to make your Instagram friends jealous, this is the spot.
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Ruidoso, New Mexico
Two hours north of El Paso lies the quaint village of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Set among the Sierra Blanca Mountains, this village is famous for its world-class skiing. If you’re in El Paso during ski season, a trip to Ruidoso is a no-brainer, although you may want to book accommodation before you arrive. Ski Apache Resort is the famous downhill ski area and terrain park, offering an array of runs ranging from beginner to advanced. Less crowded than Taos, you won’t find a better spot to shred and carve in New Mexico.
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Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Head east on U.S. Highway 62 for two hours, and you’ll run smack dab into Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Home to 119 caves carved by sulfuric acid over millions of years, Carlsbad Caverns is a sight to behold. The caves are famous for their calcite formations and some of the biggest stalactites in North America. However, the main attraction is the appropriately titled “Big Room.” At 4,000 feet long, 625 feet wide, and 255 feet at its highest point, it’s the fifth-largest cave on the continent and the 28th largest in the world.
Whether you want to experience the natural beauty of the area, head to a museum, or get your fill of Southwest cuisines, these road trips offer plenty to get excited about.
Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License
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