Whether looking for a scenic drive or a place to hike, nature enthusiasts should not miss a trip to Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge while in New Mexico.
Situated between the cities of Albuquerque and Las Cruces, the Woods of the Apache has seen 358 species of birds and many other animals on its land within the Chihuahuan desert .
From the summit of Chupadera Peak to the bottom wetlands the preserve holds a diverse array of landscapes in its 57,331 acres along the Rio Grande.
In the fall birders flock to see the gathering of the 10,000 Sandhill cranes and in the winter its massive group of 20,000 geese, but any time of year you are sure to see something impressive.
The exciting twelve-mile looping auto tour displays an impressive array of wildlife without even leaving your car. It is a gravel road, but extremely well maintained and manageable for any kind of vehicle. You’ll want to drive it slow to enjoy the varying landscapes, but also for the safety of the creatures. A gorgeous snake was sitting right in the middle of the road sunning itself, maneuvering around it was a careful task.
Plenty of birds of prey sit perched in the trees beside the road waiting for an opportunity.
Tons of turkey convened in a field to parade about, more than I’d ever seen together before.
Perhaps the happiest sight of the day was this stunning pheasant who posed long enough for me to admire him.
So many species I had never witnessed before could be checked off my bird book, this preserve truly is a treasure.
Off of the road there are places to park and hop onto hiking trails with ranging difficulties, from one to ten miles. The Marsh Overlook trail is a short an scenic loop just over a mile long.
The smell of the wetlands and sound of red winged blackbirds was wonderful for the senses.
Seeing what I believed to be a nutria was interesting, but unfortunate because it is an invasive species.
Shifting from wetland to grassland, the scenery remains very much serene, and a small hill affords views for miles.
Sunset is absolutely divine, especially when reflected off one of the many wetland pools.
Watching the colors of the dwindling day and the birds of the rookery was pure magic.
Just down the road, off the auto tour route is another great hike the Canyon National Recreation trail, a 2.5 mile loop through Solitude Canyon and aptly named.
There were no other visitors to share the trail or tranquil narrowing canyon with.
Just the song birds, an occasional lizard, and bees who were minding their own business.
Lovely desert views and mild bouts of elevation make this a fun and relaxing journey.
Good to know:
+Daily entrance fee is $5, free for those who have the America the Beautiful National Parks pass
+Open one hour before sunrise until one hour after sunset
Seems like you have a fantastic backyard! I don’t come across very many.
I appreciate when you are able to name the wildlife. But wild turkeys? This is a small flock, compared to what’s now wandering New England!