Day/Road Trips
Quebradas Back Country Byway
Enjoy a 24-mile drive along scenic colored cliffs, arroyos, and rock formations of the Quebradas Back Country Byway. This back country byway includes travel atop a portion of the historic El Camino Real. It provides a great opportunity to see the protected wildlife of two separate reserves, Sevilleta to the north and Bosque del Apache to the south. From I-25, take the Escondida Exit, head east and then north 1 mile, then turn right and pass Escondida Lake; cross the Rio Grande and proceed east through the settlement of Pueblitos. Turn right (south) on Bosquecito road following the east side of the Rio Grande. After 6/10 of a mile there will be a dirt road to the left (east); stay on this road and follow the Back Country Byway signs and markers
Link: http://www.nm.blm.gov/recreation/socorro/quebradas_byway.htm
Gran Quivera
Gran Quivera, part of the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, was an important trade Center before and after the Spanish entrada. Apache raids, drought, and famine caused the Pueblo Indians to abandon the site in 1672. Two churches, excavated Indain structures, museum exhibits, and a 40-minute video are highlights of the site, located on US 54, 25 miles south of Mountainair on the eastern edge of Socorro County. For more info, call (575) 847-2770.
Link: http://www.nps.gov/sapu
Fort Craig
Fort Craig, established in 1854, was one of the largest and most important frontier forts in the West and also played a crucial role in Indian campaigns and the Civil War. The Fort has a rich multicultural history, full of stories of courage, honor, and sacrifice. Located about 35 miles south of Socorro. Take I-25 to the San Miguel Exit, then east over the Interstate, and south on old Highway 1 (about 11 miles). Then follow the signs to Ft. Craig. For more information or a brochure, call (575) 835-0412.
Link: http://www.nm.blm.gov/recreation/socorro/fort_craig_nat_historic_site.htm
Very Large Array
Visit the Very Large Array (VLA), which has made more scientific discoveries than any other ground based telescope in history. The 27 giant dish antennas of the VLA have “starred” in Hollywood movies, documentaries, articles, and news stories seen around the world. The VLA is located 50 miles west of Socorro on US 60, so from US 60, the site is reached by going two miles south along state highway 52 and then turning west on the VLA access road, which is well-marked.
Link: http://www.vla.nrao.edu/
El Camino Real International Heritage Center
El Camino Real International Heritage Center is one of the most important legacies of the Spanish settlers, who arrived in New Mexico in 1598. The Heritage Center houses a theater, classroom, gift shop, outdoor patios, an amphitheater, and an observation deck. The natural setting is ideal for interpretation, nature walks, horseback riding, living history presentations, multi-cultural exchange, entertainment, and recreation. Located 30 miles south of Socorro on I-25, take Exit 115 and head east to Highway 1 Frontage Road, then south 1.4 miles; turn east onto County Road 1598, 2.7 miles from Center. For more information, call (575) 854-3600.
Link: http://www.caminorealheritage.org/
