Your Ultimate Guide To Summer Fun In New Mexico
×
Jessica Moore
Author
When considering your summer travel plans this year, I suggest that you make a trip to The Land of Enchantment. With its vibrant Native American-influenced culture and the diverse Desert Southwest landscape to explore, you’ll find no shortage of options for adventure. To make your travel plans a breeze, check out this comprehensive guide to the best things to do in New Mexico in Summer.
Best Summer Vacation Destinations In New Mexico
There are so many beautiful and exciting places to visit in New Mexico that you’ll find it hard to go wrong when planning your summer travels. However, based on my own travel experiences, I find that the locations below are some of the best summer vacation destinations in New Mexico.
1. Santa Fe
Santa Fe, NM, USA
Santa Fe is a truly eclectic and vibrant town that is always bustling with activity and excitement. As New Mexico's capital city, you'll see why Santa Fe makes for one of the most popular and beloved summer vacation destinations in the state. Found on the foothills of the breathtaking Sangre de Cristo mountains, Santa Fe boasts a charming downtown where the streets are lined with classic Pueblo-style adobe boutiques, art galleries, business, and restaurants of all varieties. You'll have easy access to plenty of hiking trails, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, and many more outdoor recreation activities. Additionally, the artsy town of Taos is about an hour and a half away and makes for an exciting day trip if you have the time to spare.
2. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Carlsbad, NM 88220, USA
In southern New Mexico, there is a small, unassuming town called Carlsbad that you might not think much about when passing through. However, about 20 miles outside of town lies one of the most awe-inspiring underground cave systems in the entire country. This labyrinth of 119 caves and caverns was formed when sulfuric acid dissolved these limestone formations into stalactites and stalagmites stretching from the ground to the ceiling, and carving out massive tunnel systems that visitors can wander through. Having walked through these caves at Carlsbad Caverns National Park myself, I can assure you that you'll never experience anything else like it. Some areas of the caverns are so dark, you can't even see your own hand in front of your face! In addition to the caves, there are many other natural wonders to explore in the area. The Chihuahuan Desert offers endless desert flora and fauna, along with beautiful canyons and high ancient sea ledges galore. The nearby Sitting Bull Falls is a hidden oasis well worth visiting during the summer months. The town itself, despite being on the smaller side, offers plenty of lodging and dining options as well.
Advertisement
3. Taos
Taos Pueblo, NM, USA
The colorful community of Taos, New Mexico has been drawing visitors for decades due to its stunning mountain scenery, a thriving Native American art and cultural scene, and beautiful adobe homes and businesses. The Taos Pueblo is the main attraction that travelers come to visit as it offers a true, rare glimpse into the Native American way of life. The pueblo buildings are beautifully preserved and the San Geronimo Chapel is absolutely stunning. The town of Taos itself offers endless Native American-themed art galleries, museums, and boutique shops that you can peruse to your heart's content. There's no better place to fall in love with the Desert Southwest than in the town of Taos.
Advertisement
Best Lakes To Visit In New Mexico This Summer
During those hot summer days in the Desert Southwest, you may find yourself hankering for a nearby body of water to cool off in. Due to its arid climate, New Mexico doesn’t have a lot of bodies of water to choose from. However, you’ll find a selection of the best lakes in New Mexico that are worth visiting, and they are quite beautiful to boot.
4. Heron Lake State Park
Heron Lake State Park, Los Ojos, NM 87551, USA
Heron Lake State Park is a picturesque locale in northern New Mexico that is popular for camping, hiking, boating, excellent fishing, and a wide range of summer events and activities. The lake itself is designated as a "quiet lake", meaning boats can only be operated at no-wake speeds. This helps create a more tranquil experience for others who recreate on and around the lake. Rio Chama and Heron Lake, along with the pine tree forests and gentle hills, all create truly panoramic views. If you're looking for the perfect out-in-nature getaway for the whole family, you'll fall in love with Heron Lake State Park.
5. Abiquiu Lake
Abiquiu Lake, New Mexico 87017, USA
You'll be hard-pressed to find a more stunning and accessible lake in New Mexico than Abiquiu Lake. These crystal-clear waters are perfect for fishing, boating, paddle boarding, kayaking, and swimming during the warm summer months. Rianna Camground offers campsites of all varieties so that you and your family can soak in the sights and sounds of nature at this serene lake. It's so naturally beautiful that you'd never guess the lake itself is man-made, but that doesn't stop it from being one of the best lakes in the state. If you're looking for a less-crowded camping option for the family, you'll be right at home in the peace and quiet found at Abiquiu Lake.
6. Lake Katherine
Lake Katherine, New Mexico 87506, USA
Lake Katherine is a pristine alpine lake located in northern New Mexico in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and while it is one of the most beautiful lakes in the state, it is also one of the most difficult to access. You'll be faced with surmounting a steep and challenging 14-mile trail to reach it, but it is well worth the trek for the end destination. Given the length and difficulty of this hike, I recommend that you split the journey over a couple of days so that you don't have to rush your time at the lake. You'll want to leave plenty of opportunity to soak in the natural beauty and serenity of your surroundings. So just be sure to come prepared with sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of spare clothing, food, and water, and don't forget bear mace just in case. Don't attempt this hike unless you are in good physical shape and have experience navigating the backcountry wilderness. Check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List for the 75 hiking essentials you'll want to consider, especially for a longer hike such as this one.
Parks To Visit In New Mexico This Summer
It is no secret that the Lane of Enchantment offers some of the most uniquely picturesque parks in the country. Whether you’re searching for remote wilderness to truly disconnect from the stressors of everyday life or a peaceful respite within reaches of civilization, you’ll find plenty of both across the state. Below are some of the best parks in New Mexico that you should add to your summer travel itinerary.
7. White Sands National Monument
White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA
If you've never visited the majestic White Sands National Monument in south-central New Mexico, you are in for a very special treat. These ethereal white sand dunes stretch endlessly for miles in all directions after you enter the park, and you'll feel transported to another planet. I highly recommend that you hike into the dunes away from the crowds so that you can see views like this of the untouched white dunes. But do be sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and food, because hiking the dunes is quite a feat in itself if you plan to travel far. But you also can enjoy plenty of beauty without even setting foot on the dunes; in fact, there are several accessible trails and boardwalks if you have limited mobility or time limitations. There's plenty for everyone to enjoy in the park. For an extra touch of excitement, rent a sandboard or sled and sled the dunes! Photographers, you'll find endless opportunities to capture unique perspectives over the dunes, especially during sunrise and sunset when the white dunes are bathed in golden light. You'll find it well worth the visit to White Sands National Monument.
This in-depth video shows you all the beauty and allure of White Sands National Monument.
8. Gila Wilderness
Gila Wilderness, Silver City, NM 88061, USA
You've never known wilderness until you've explored the vast and remote Gila Wilderness. Found in the southwestern reaches of New Mexico, the Gila Wilderness is the first designated wilderness area in the world. It spans an impressive 560,000 acres within the 3.3 million-acre Gila National Forest, and as of June 3rd, 2024, the wilderness turns 100 years old. And when we say wilderness, we truly mean it: there are no roads that lead through this area. You can only explore it on foot or horseback so that its rugged and pristine beauty can be preserved. When you lay your eyes on this unbelievable landscape, you'll understand why its preservation is so important. We recommend you stay and camp for a few days to leave plenty of time to explore during the day and enjoy the dark, starry skies at night. And as with all activities in nature, be sure to take your trash and gear with you when you leave.
Advertisement
9. Bandelier National Monument
Bandelier National Monument Visitor Center, 15 Entrance Rd, Los Alamos, NM 87544, USA
Bandelier National Monument is a unique historic site dating back 10,000 years and spanning over 33,000 acres. The Ancestral Pueblo people who first inhabited this beautiful area carved their homes out of the volcanic tuff landscape and weathered the elements well until a severe drought eventually forced them to relocate. However, their homes and local geology has been protected and preserved beautifully, providing visitors a glimpse into the distance past. The geology of the region is fascinating as well when you consider that the canyons and cliffs were formed by explosive volcanic eruptions over a million years ago.
Best Free Summer Activities
Making the most of your summertime does not have to break the bank. There are plenty of ways to explore and enjoy nature’s beauty and recreational activities in New Mexico while putting minimal strain on your bank account. Check out the following list of some of the best free summer activities in New Mexico that you and the whole family will love.
10. Williams Lake Trail
Williams Lake Trail, Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525, USA
By far, one of the best free summer activities in New Mexico is hiking. What better way to explore the natural beauty found in the Land of Enchantment? There are hundreds of picturesque hiking trails scattered across the state, but Williams Lake Trail is by far one of the most visually stunning. But I'll forewarn you that it's also one of the more challenging trails. It can be completed in about 6 hours and climbs nearly 3,000 feet in elevation. You'll witness beautiful views like this one of Williams Lake on your way to Wheeler Peak (should you desire to complete that extra leg of the journey), along with plenty of wildflowers and wildlife. Well-conditioned, experienced hikers are sure to love this trail and the awe-inspiring views it provides.
11. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, 131 Cathedral Pl, Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is a can't miss historic and cultural landmark located in the heart of the Santa Fe Plaza. This unique cathedral takes a page out of the Romaneque Revival architectural style and is an integral piece of history for the town of Santa Fe. Find reverance and inspiration from the painstakingly designed stained-glass windows that allow soft light to filter into the beautiful church and create a truly ethereal atmosphere. There is no cost to enter the church, but they do welcome donations.
12. Canyon Road
Canyon Road, Canyon Rd, Santa Fe, NM, USA
Canyon Road is an outdoor gallery unlike any other, and it's found right in the vibrant city of Santa Fe. If you're wanting to truly immerse yourself into the art and culture of the American Southwest, you'll find it here with over 100 businesses, galleries, and restaurants along a half-mile road in Santa Fe's Historic District. This stretch of road is dedicatd to bringing the region's hand-crafted works of art, collectibles, handmade jewelry, and more, much of which is authentically Native American-made. I highly recommend purchasing authentic Native American and local collectives or souvenirs to give back to the people who bring life and culture to this region. Stop at one of the many local restaurants for some authentic Mexican cuisine to satiate your appetive and cool off after your time in the sun.
Best Summer Events And Festivals In New Mexico
If you’d like to time your visit to New Mexico with one of the state’s many exciting summer festivals or events, you’re in luck! There are quite a few events that are unique to the region that you simply cannot find anywhere else. Below are a few of the best summer events in New Mexico that are well worth experiencing.
13. Route 66 Summerfest
U.S. Route 66, U.S. Rt. 66, Albuquerque, NM, USA
If you've never been to the Route 66 Summerfest in Albuquerque, prepare to be transported into a world of eclectic music, vibrant art culture, delicious food, and plenty of fun for kids and adults alike. Be sure to check out the Old Route 66 Car Show, or try your hand at the 25-foot climbing wall or inflatable obstacle course. Countless vendors offer a variety of delicious local delicacies to whet your appetite, and don't forget to let your kids get their faces painted! This popular annual festival will take place on July 20, 2024 and promises endless fun and entertainment for the whole family.
Advertisement
14. Hatch Chile Festival New Mexico
Hatch, NM, USA
The Hatch Chile Festival is a lively and exciting festival celebrating arguably the most famous staple of New Mexico cuisine: Hatch Chile! Head on down during Labor Day Weekend to enjoy a variety of activities at this popular festival that draws over 30,000 visitors every year. Not only will you have the opportunity to sample from a wide variety of locally grown chiles (proceed with caution, as they can be quite spicy!), but there are many vendors offering other freshly-prepared foods, souvenirs, and various contests, but there is also a parade, live music, and much more. So make your way down to the Hatch Chile Capital of the World and enjoy a little spice in your life!
Check out the video below for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the Hatch Chile Festival!
15. Balloons Over Angel Fire
Angel Fire, NM, USA
- Location: Angel Fire, New Mexico
- Popularity: Very Popular
- Need To Know: There is no cost to attend the festival, but you may want to bring spending money for food, beverages, souvenirs, and experiences
Balloons Over Angel Fire is an annual festival that occurs each June and features dozens of hot air balloons ascending to the sky. In addition to the hot air balloon launches, which are a treat in and of themselves, there is also the Angel Fire Farmer's Market at Frontier Park, Mimosas on Mainstreet, several live music performances, the Kite and Glider Festival at the Soccer Complex, and plenty of food and drink options to enjoy. The festival runs from June 14th through the 16th in 2024, so if you missed out this year, be sure to add it to your calendar for next year, because it's a can't-miss event.
Which of these destinations or events are you most excited to add to your travel bucket list? Have you experienced any of these best things to do in the summer in New Mexico, and if so, what did you love about them? We welcome your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
If you are one to enjoy water parks as a way of cooling off during the heat of summer, check out these 3 amazing water parks in New Mexico that offer a truly legendary and wild experience for all ages.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Things To Do In Summer In New Mexico
What are the best hot springs in New Mexico?
The best hot springs in New Mexico include the following:
- Gila Hot Springs Campground, Silver City
- Turkey Creek Hot Springs, Silver City
- McCauley Hot Springs, Jemez Springs
- Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs & Spa, Ojo Caliente
- Riverbend Hot Springs, Truth or Consequences (adults only)
- Spence Hot Springs, Jemez Springs
- Faywood Hot Springs, Silver City
- Ten Thousand Waves Japanese Spa and Resort, Santa Fe
Check out the 8 best hot springs in New Mexico for even more refreshing mineral soaking locations in the Land of Enchantment.
What are the best things to do in summer in New Mexico?
The best things to do in summer in New Mexico include the following activities or events:
- Hiking
- Summer mountain tubing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Camping
- Horseback riding
- Kayaking
- Boating
- Photography
- Antiquing
- Sampling unique cuisine
If you're looking for some family-friendly water fun in New Mexico, check out the Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area for water recreation the whole family will love.
What are the best lakes to visit in New Mexico in the summer?
The best lakes to visit in New Mexico in the summer are listed below:
- Heron Lake
- Bill Evans Lake,
- Fenton Lake
- Navajo Lake
- Lea Lake
- Abiquiú Lake
- Elephant Butte Reservoir
- Bluewater Lake
- Conchas Lake
For additional lakes worthy of visiting this summer, check out out list of 12 gorgeous lakes in New Mexico that each offers its own slice of paradise and serenity in nature.