Northwestern New Mexico
VACATION DIRECTORY
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of the era as the "Mother Road" winds its way west out of Albuquerque toward Gallup. For railway buffs and anyone interested in the history of the Southwest, the town’s historic railway depot is worth a photo op from the outside. The Southwest Indian Foundation operates the Gallup Cultural Center inside the depot. It contains a storyteller museum and displays about trains, mining, weaving, Native American sand paintings and silversmithing, as well as the stories of Route 66. If you have your heart set on seeing it, make sure to call 505-863-4131 in advance to check whether it’s open in light of Covid-19 safety measures. A scenic drive off I-40 east of Grants escorts you to the otherworldly volcanic flows of El Malpais National Monument. Its
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surface trails and trailhead pit toilets are open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. The Visitors Center, its restrooms, vestibule, and bookstore service window are open with rangers on-site. All caves, tubes, the exhibit area and movie theater remain closed. Take exit 89 off I-40 onto NM Highway 117, which travels the eastern boundary of the park. For updates, visit https://www.nps.gov/elma/planyourvisit/conditions.htm. Take a stop from your scenic tour of the region at Sky City Casino Hotel on I-40, east of Grants. Sky City offers 24-hour gaming with more than 640 of the newest and hottest slot and video poker machines, Las Vegas-style table games, bingo, and live entertainment, with fine accommodations and dining all in one place.
Northeastern New Mexico: A Raucous Past Among Varied Vistas
NORTHEAST
NORTHEASTERN New Mexico's diverse terrain includes everything from the state’s highest mountain, to the valleys and clear water streams of the Pecos River. As a result, this quadrant of New Mexico has some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found.
As expansive as the mesa is the area’s history, which includes outlaws, Rough Riders, a raucous cow town and the dwellings of ancient civilizations. Experience the mystery and intrigue of the historic St. James Hotel in Cimarron, a tiny community with a storied past that includes Buffalo Soldiers and train robbers. Make a stop along the legendary Santa Fe Trail into the once-bustling cattle town in Las Vegas, where Teddy Roosevelt came to recruit the Rough Riders. Be aware that the City of Las Vegas Museum and Rough Rider Memorial Collection is closed until further notice. Visit https://www.visitlasvegasnm. com/rough-rider-museum for updates.
Venture to nearby Fort Union and walk through the territorial style adobe remnants of the region’s largest 19th-century military fort. Recognized for its antique shopping opportunities, Las Vegas also provides a chance to learn the New Mexico Harvey House story. Entrepreneur Fred Harvey built a series of iconic hotels and restaurants along the railway routes of the Southwest, attracting tourists to the area from around the world at the turn of the 20th century.
Nestled among the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains just six miles from the Colorado border, hospitable Raton offers fresh air, expansive scenery, a variety of recreational activities, a vibrant art scene and regular downtown events. A dozen miles northeast of Raton, you’ll find camping, fishing and hiking in Sugarite Canyon. About 40 miles west of town, enjoy abundant wildlife, luxurious spa amenities and fine dining amid the ultimate outdoor adventure on Ted Turner’s 585,000-acre Vermejo Park Ranch. And don’t miss the National Rifle Association’s largest shooting range in the country. The NRA Whittington Center, located southwest of Raton, offers guided hunts, shooting, camping, firearms training and pistol courses. Call ahead at 800.494.4853 to create your experience.
www.travelnewmex.com | 2021TRUE. 9 Pecos Canyon, photo credit New Mexico
