The landscapes in rural areas in New Mexico vary widely, from expanses of open land where you can see the weather rolling in long before it arrives, to communities in forested, mountainous settings. If overlooked places intrigue you, consider exploring these 11 small towns in New Mexico. You may be surprised by what they have to offer.
1. Pie Town, Catron County
Pie is a pretty persuasive reason to move to a rural town with a population of only 186 people. If you’re searching for a place where life moves at a slower pace – save for during the annual Pie Festival –
and the locals who specialize in dessert, look no further.
2. Bosque Farms, Valencia County
Although Albuquerque is only 18 miles up the road, this peaceful village feels far removed from city life. It’s home to 3904 people and delicious restaurants like Benny’s Burgers and Sopa’s.
3. White Rock, Los Alamos County
4. Logan, Quay County
The allure of Ute Lake makes Logan (population 1042) a tempting place to visit. Popular activities at this state park include fishing, boating, and all manner of water activities.
5. Cliff, Grant County
The tiny town of Cliff – population 293 – is surrounded by the Gila National Forest, one of the most untouched areas in our state. Each year, the Grant County Fair is held in Cliff.
6. Capitan, Lincoln County
Smokey Bear Historical Park is the most popular attraction in this town of 1489 people. In 1950 the bear cub known as Smokey was rescued from a fire that blazed through the Capitan Mountains. Encircled by the Lincoln National Forest, Capitan is a great place for those who love the outdoors.
7. Lordsburg, Hidalgo County
There’s a stark beauty to the land surrounding this railroad town of 2797 people, where you can see the weather coming. It was here that Pat Garrett’s daughter, Elizabeth, penned our official state song: "O Fair New Mexico." If you visit, be sure to stop by Ramona’s for a bite to eat.
8. Mountainair, Torrance County
9. Columbus, Luna County
Columbus has a fascinating history. Learn about it by visiting Pancho Villa State Park. The town is home to 1664 people.
10. Placitas, Sandoval County
Scenic Placitas (population 4977) abuts the Cibola National Forest. Come for the recreational opportunities, to check out the Sandia Man Cave, and to unwind at Anasazi Fields Winery. The rural setting makes it easy to forget that Albuquerque isn’t far away and the dramatic skies are an added bonus.
11. Church Rock, McKinley County
The town of Church Rock is named after the main rock formation in Red Rocks Park, an overlooked hiking wonderland near Gallup. The town is inside Navajo Nation and 1128 people live here.
Do you have a favorite small town in New Mexico? Tell us about it on our nomination page, and you just might see your suggestion featured in an upcoming article.
You may also be interested in checking out these New Mexico small towns that offer plenty of peace and quiet.
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