The View From This Incredible Park In New Mexico Needs To Be Seen To Be Believed

You anticipate breathtaking vistas when you visit national parks and even some state parks. However, unless you live in New Mexico, you don’t expect panoramic views from a humble urban green space.

At first glance Overlook Park, which is hidden in a residential area in White Rock, seems pleasant but unremarkable. There are baseball, softball, soccer fields…

…A playground, a dog park – desirable amenities for sure, but nothing earthshattering.

That is until you follow the path to Overlook Point…

Wow!

These sweeping views stretch for miles.

White Rock Canyon is below, with the curving Rio Grande cutting through it; white-capped mountains rise in the distance.

You can sometimes spot a waterfall tumbling down the rocks.

Stay a while and soak in the scenery - it's divine at any time of year.

If you time your visit to coordinate with sunset, the sky turns into a vibrant canvas that enhances a view that is already astounding.

If you want to relax, settle down for a leisurely picnic. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little more active, hit the trails.

The Blue Dot and Red Dot Trails form a roughly 7-mile long loop that makes for a stunning day hike.

The terrain is uneven and it’s more of a moderate level trail, but you can shorten your hike and make it an out-and-back trek.

The park is located at 700 Overlook Road. Here is a map.

This area is so spectacular that it has been used as a movie location. Check out the opening credits of "Silverado" (from YouTube user, patwestward). Skip over the gunfight scene to the 1:18-minute mark. Look familiar?

Once a year, Overlook Park hosts a lovely kite festival. For more info. Like you needed another reason to come to this amazing place!

What’s your favorite urban oasis in New Mexico?