Celebrate The Arrival Of Spring In New Mexico With This Easy Waterfall Hike
By Monica Spencer|Published February 20, 2018
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
We’ve approached that time of year where the temperatures are in constant fluctuation, where the weather is warm and sunny one week then gray and chilly the next. That just means spring is arriving soon and we bet you’re just itching for a reason to head out to celebrate the new season. We suggest heading out for a hike to ring in spring! Check out this one trail near Las Cruces that is easy to hike and easy on the eyes.
Just look at this stunning landscape! This is what you’ll find at the Dripping Springs Natural Area, a lovely wooded area near the Organ Mountains.
Dripping Springs sits a short drive from Las Cruces—almost 14 miles from the city center—making it a quick and easy getaway for anyone looking to see a little piece of paradise.
The sanatorium, named after its constructor, Dr. Nathan Boyd, was used as a medical facility for treating tuberculosis. It also operated briefly as a resort, as well as private residence before the land was eventually acquired by the Bureau of Land Management.
You can check out the ruins but only do this from outside the buildings. They are deteriorating and are considered unsafe to enter.
At the end of the trail, you’ll find the little waterfall! Sometimes, it flows in a lovely stream like this and other times it seems to slowly drip into a pool below. Increase your chances of seeing the waterfall and wildflowers by visiting within a few short days of rain.
This is definitely a quick little spot you’ll want to visit with your family! The easy trail, pretty views, and chance to talk about history will help create lasting memories.
