People Live Their Whole Lives in New Mexico and Somehow Miss These 4 Places

Whether you've lived in The Land of Enchantment your entire life or you're just visiting, its mystical desert landscape is full of hidden gems that many locals haven't even discovered yet. From otherworldly rock formations to ancient lava tubes, these must-visit places in New Mexico are worth adding to your bucket list.

1. Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness, San Juan County

Many New Mexicans know about the mystical Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, also known as the Bisti Badlands. Visiting this remote destination near Farmington feels like you're on another planet, thanks to its unique rock formations and desolate surroundings. The Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness is a lesser-known section of the Bisti Badlands, featuring some of the most otherworldly geological wonders in the area, including the "Alien Throne." Managed by the BLM, the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness offers no visitor amenities, so you'll need to come prepared with supplies and navigation skills.

2. Jemez Springs

Jemez Springs is one of the most charming (and underrated) small towns in New Mexico. With a population of roughly 200, it's easy to overlook, but in doing so, you miss out on secluded hot springs, revered historic sites, and a landscape that looks like something from "The Lord of the Rings." Jemez Hot Springs is lesser-known than popular destinations like Ojo Caliente, making it a better choice for those seeking deep relaxation. You can also visit the Jemez Historic Site, which preserves archaeological remains from the 16th and 17th centuries, as well as the stone ruins of a 700-year-old village. Jemez Springs is also home to Soda Dam, a unique rock formation over the Jemez River created from the mineral-rich waters of 15 hot springs.

3. Lincoln Historic Site

In the shadow of the Capitan Mountains, Lincoln Historic Site preserves 48 stone and adobe structures from the late 1800s. These buildings tell the story of the 1878-1881 Lincoln County War. This economic dispute became famous because of the involvement of William H. Bonney, better known as Billy the Kid. While the site is well-known among history buffs, it's a hidden gem for the general population. Visitors can tour the old buildings, including a jail, a courthouse, and even a general store with original merchandise still on the shelves. It's a community frozen in time, and the Wild West atmosphere takes you back to the lawless era before New Mexico became a state.

4. Big Skylight Cave, El Malpais National Monument

Embark on an unforgettable adventure when you explore Big Skylight Cave, one of the largest Lava Tubes in El Malpais National Monument. You'll need a permit to go underground, but if you don't have one, you can still gaze down into the cave through the opening. The hike to the entrance is less than a mile long and marked with cairns, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding your way. Just remember to wear boots because the trail is very rocky. Once inside the cave, you'll be fascinated by the ancient volcanic landscape, illuminated by sunlight streaming in through the "skylight." There are two other nearby caves, Four Windows Cave and Bandera Ice Cave, but Big Skylight Cave is the least-visited of the group.

How many of these must-visit places in New Mexico have you explored? What other destinations are often overlooked by tourists and locals? If you're feeling inspired, try planning your own New Mexico trips using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.