5-Day Journey National Parks: Texas and New Mexico

The border of Texas and New Mexico is as good as it gets in the United States for authentic Mexican Food, Wild West culture, and beautiful sunsets. This trip begins in El Paso, Texas and twists and turns its way to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Before we begin, let's take a look at the three National Parks and two historic cities we will be visiting.

Stops Include: El Paso, TX, Guadalupe Mountains NP, Carlsbad Caverns NP, White Sands NP, Albuquerque, NM

Preview the Itinerary Below!

Christina's Journey

The trio of these unique National Parks in Texas and New Mexico is a hidden gem. I did this trip for New Years with my best friend and was constantly surprised and amazed by the beauty that exists in the Southwest.

The border-town culture in El Paso is so fun, and the Mexican influences that have trickled across the Rio Grand is how I will always remember this city (holy Margarita!). We spent quite a bit of time at the Chili Company, and picked up great gifts for friends and family back home. I have never witnessed the chili drying process before, so seeing them hang from the ceiling in these colorful bunches was a treat (both visually and we ate some!).

When we got up on Day 2 to head to Carlsbad, we were so excited to experience Guadalupe Mountains and Carlsbad Caverns National Parks. Guadalupe was a true hikers paradise. It was primitive and remote. I have been to quite a bit of National Parks, but never quite experienced a park like this before.

We did a moderate hike. I felt like we had the entire park to ourselves. It was so peaceful.

Carlsbad Caverns were remarkable. We took the natural entrance in, and were rewarded with an up- close view of history. I kept thinking of all the people who came before us to explore these caves. Make sure to bring a good camera with you, because the darkness sure makes it hard to capture the beauty you are experiencing. My favorite part of the trip was sunset in White Sands National Park. We had the place to ourselves, which surprised us. We rented sleds and had so much fun sliding down the dunes. It was cold when we were there and not a cloud in the sky. The sunset was simply spectacular. Heading over to Albuquerque was the perfect way to end our trip. We stayed at Los Poblanos which definitely tested the expander-zipper of my luggage. Because I bought EVERYTHING! Between touring the lavender fields and having brunch at Campo, I had the best time. I would come back just to visit this place again.

Download the Full Itinerary Here!