If you live in El Paso and you’re looking to get away for the day, there are some great day trip destinations in the area! Here’s a look at some of these destinations and what they have to offer.
Aguirre Springs
Though Aguirre Springs is located in New Mexico, it’s just a 45-minute drive from El Paso. This stunning park features year-round springs, hiking trails with plenty of shade trees, and beautiful spots for picnics. Aguirre Springs is surrounded by the dramatic Organ Mountains which, unlike other mountains in the area, are still jagged and steep. The park overlooks the Tularosa Basin and White Sands National Monument, providing opportunities to take some great photographs. It’s also a great spot for horseback riding.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Another stunning New Mexico destination within driving distance of El Paso is Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The park is home to more than 119 caves, many of which are available to tour. The Big Room Trail takes you through what comedian Will Rogers called “The Grand Canyon with a roof over it.” The 1.25 mile-trail contains stunning rock formations of all shapes and sizes and a rope ladder dating back to 1924.
More experienced explorers might want to attempt a hike along the Natural Entrance Trail. This trail is also 1.25 miles but it is much steeper than the Big Room Trail. In fact, a hike along this trail is equal to walking up or down a 75-story building. It’s well worth the effort as you’ll get to see some incredible and unique rock formations like Devil’s Spring, the Whale’s Mouth, and Iceberg Rock.
While there’s plenty to explore underground, you don’t want to miss out on Carlsbad’s aboveground natural wonders, either. The park serves as a habitat for many species of wildlife, including cougars, ring-necked ducks, and Montezuma quail.
Chihenne Ranch
At Chihenne Ranch, located two-and-a-half hours from El Paso, you can spend the day learning what it’s like to live and work on a real New Mexico cattle ranch. You can also enjoy horseback riding, Indian site visits, and visits to gold and silver mines. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, you can participate in a cattle roundup or embark on a four-wheel off-road trip. There are so many things to do that you might end up coming back for a longer stay!
Hueco Tanks State Park
While Hueco Tanks State Park is right outside El Paso, it feels like a world away. It’s a popular destination for rock climbing and hiking. The area was once home to at least three ancient cultures who left behind pictographs and petroglyphs that are still visible today. More than 200 species of birds have been spotted in Hueco Tanks so be sure to bring your binoculars to get the best view. Several rock outcroppings provide shady areas that are perfect for picnicking.
These are just some of the great destinations within driving distance of El Paso. Consider a visit so you can create special moments and memories!
Image via jared | Licensed under CC BY 2.0
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