The Underrated State Park In New Mexico Where You Can See Historic Mines

For a bit of history mixed with adventure, there's an underrated state park in New Mexico you need to visit. Cerrillos Hills State Park is home to historic mines dotting the landscape, hills, and five miles of trails ranging in elevation between 5,900 and 6,100 feet. If you're ready for a history lesson and fresh air, this state park can't be beat.

Located along NM14, otherwise known as the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, is an underrated state park in New Mexico.

Cerrillos Hills State Park is New Mexico's 34th state park. It offers a variety of outdoor recreation including hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

Not only that but there are mountain views galore! While hiking, you can gaze out at the landscape and take in views of several mountain ranges including the Sandia and Ortiz Mountains.

As for the historical elements of the park, there are numerous mines you'll encounter on the trails.

Interpretive signs throughout the park provide visitors with information on what was mined here in the Cerrillos Hills over the past 1,100 years.

Among the elements mined here over the millennia include turquoise, zinc, iron, and copper.

The mines you see in the park today are from the late 1800s during the mining boom and provide an interesting look into the history of this area.

If you decide to explore Cerrillos Hills State Park, make sure you use sunscreen, wear a hat, and have plenty of water on hand as there isn't much shade. A sturdy pair of hiking shoes or boots is recommended as the trails are rocky in some areas.

There is also a daily entrance fee of $5 per vehicle.

Have you visited Cerrillos Hills State Park, an underrated state park in New Mexico yet? If so, did you see the remnants of the historic mines? Tell us about your experience in the comments. To learn more about Cerrillos Hills State Park, head to the New Mexico EMNRD website. For trail information, visit AllTrails and download the AllTrails+ app to guide you.