Top Places to See When Driving From Arkansas to New Mexico
Are you planning your next road trip from Arkansas to New Mexico? You're in for a visual treat as there are so many beautiful places to stop and see along the way. From majestic mountains to fascinating historical sites, from buzzing cities to peaceful national parks, this route has everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. In this blog post, we'll share the top places to see when driving from Arkansas to New Mexico.
Hiking Trails and Stunning Scenery in Ozark National Forest
As you take the scenic drive through Ozark National Forest, one of the best things to do is to explore its beautiful hiking trails. Make sure to pack comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and your camera to capture the stunning scenery. One of the most popular hikes in the forest is the Whitaker Point Trail. It's a moderate 2.9-mile hike that leads you to the famous Hawksbill Crag with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
If you want to enjoy the outdoors without hiking, you can also rent a canoe or kayak and float peacefully down the Mulberry River. Or, you can take a scenic drive through Ozark National Forest and stop at one of the numerous overlooks to take in the views of the rolling hills.
The Historic Trail of Tears and Fort Smith National Historic Site
The Trail of Tears was the forced relocation of thousands of Native Americans from their ancestral lands in the Southeast to Indian Territory, which is now Oklahoma. One of the routes of the Trail of Tears went through Arkansas, and you can learn about this tragic event by visiting the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. The trail passes through several states, and in Arkansas, it includes Fort Smith National Historic Site. There, you can see the remains of a fort that was used to house Cherokee and other tribes before they were moved to Indian Territory. The site also includes the restored courtroom where the "hanging judge" Isaac Parker held court, as well as a museum that tells the story of the fort and the Trail of Tears.
The Thrills of Albuquerque's Balloon Fiesta
Albuquerque is known for many things, but one of its most famous events is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, held every October. If you happen to be driving through New Mexico during the fiesta, make sure to stop and see the hundreds of colorful hot air balloons floating over the city. The fiesta features a variety of events, including balloon races, demonstrations, and evening balloon glows. It's one of the most visually stunning events in the country, so don't miss it if you have the chance.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park's Desert and Caves
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is one of the most unique and fascinating places in New Mexico. The park features a vast network of underground caves that you can explore by self-guided or ranger-led tours. The most famous cave is the Big Room, which is almost 4,000 feet long and has numerous stunning formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and columns.
The park also features a desert ecosystem above ground, with hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks, a bat flight program, and a nightly light show to see the bats return to the caverns. It's a truly unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss.
Saddle Up at the Santa Fe National Forest
Santa Fe National Forest is a must-visit for anyone exploring New Mexico's stunning landscapes. The forest covers over 1.5 million acres and includes some of the state's highest mountains and most scenic landscapes. One of the best ways to explore the forest is on horseback, and there are plenty of outfitters that offer guided horseback tours. You can also hike or bike the numerous trails, swim in the crystal-clear streams, and camp under the stars.
The Chaco Culture National Historical Park
The Chaco Culture National Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides a glimpse into the history of the Pueblo civilization. The park features the ruins of dozens of ancient Pueblo structures, including multi-story buildings, kivas, and plazas. The ruins give insight into the sophisticated architecture and engineering of the Pueblo, as well as their complex social and economic systems.
The park is also an excellent place for stargazing, with some of the darkest skies in the country. Visitors can camp overnight in the park or attend one of the ranger-led night sky programs.
Conclusion
As you can see, the drive from Arkansas to New Mexico is filled with stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and a diverse range of activities. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply the chance to take in some breathtaking scenery, this route has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.