Dripping Springs Natural Area Is One Of The Most Underrated Places In New Mexico
By Courtnie Erickson|Published November 10, 2021
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
When many New Mexicans are looking for a beautiful place to spend time outdoors, they head to White Sands National Park or Carlsbad Caverns National Park. While these areas and many others in the Land of Enchantment are pretty remarkable, there is one area located in Southern New Mexico that tends to be forgotten — Dripping Springs Natural Area. With incredible hiking trails, excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, beautiful scenery, and more, this is certainly one of the most underrated places in New Mexico.
Dripping Springs Natural Area is located in Southern New Mexico. It is approximately 10 miles east of Las Cruces and is situated on the west side of the Organ Mountains.
For individuals of any age who love the outdoors, Dripping Springs Natural Area is the ultimate playground. There are opportunities to hike, climb rocks, or just enjoy some peace and quiet.
Before you begin exploring, stop by the A.B. Cox Visitor Center to learn more about the history of the area, the ruins you may see on the various hikes, and more.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in this natural area in New Mexico. There are several trails that will take you to some mesmerizing and fascinating areas.
The Dripping Springs Trail, for example, is a 3-mile, moderately-rated hiking trail that will take you to a gorgeous waterfall and ruins of an abandoned mountain camp.
This trail begins near the A.B. Cox Visitor Center. Click here to learn more about this hiking trail in New Mexico and to access a trail map.
This natural area is also a wonderful place to view all types of wildlife. It isn’t uncommon to see golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, lizards, deer, coyotes, and more.
Make sure to bring along your camera or binoculars so you don’t miss anything.
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There are also picnic sites scattered around this natural area that have grills and picnic tables where you can just slow down, enjoy some fresh air, and immerse yourself in nature.
Dripping Springs Natural Area is open year-round except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. There is a day-use vehicle fee to enter into this area. You can learn more about Dripping Springs Natural Area by visiting the Bureau of Land Management’s Official Website.
Have you ever visited the Dripping Springs Natural Area? Have you explored one of the many hikes in this natural area? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments!
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