Bosque del Apache, New Mexico

Bosque del Apache, New Mexico is a National Wildlife and Waterfowl refuge and a common field trip destination for schools in and around the Albuquerque area. It provides a critical stopover for migrating geese and cranes. Peak migration times are around November and I had no idea what was in my own backyard for so many years!

I was born in the beautiful and unique Albuquerque, New Mexico. My family moved away when I was 9 and I don’t remember traveling around New Mexico much when my family did live there. We had the odd camping trip here and there in the Jemez Mountains or East Mountains but beyond that, not much exploration was done.

I wasn’t in public school long enough to take advantage of the school field trips to this stunning location. However when I moved back to New Mexico many many years later a friend of mine insisted we go and of course make a quick pit stop at the original Owl Cafe for a classic New Mexican Green Chile Cheeseburger, An absolute must-do for any native or out of towner alike.

While there are still many places to explore, one of the most gorgeous experiences I have had to date in New Mexico is the Migration of the Cranes in the Bosque del Apache and the photos simply just don’t do it justice.

Recommendations

1. Go super early in the morning like before dawn or you can go at Sunset as we did and be sure to stop at the Owl Cafe on your way there or back.
2. Get there early enough to park and get yourself situated.
3. Dress warmly and take blankets because once that sun starts to fade that cold desert night settles into your bones and it’s hard to shake.
4. Bring a lawn chair or you can sit in your car.
5. Remember to just be. I took photos but the best sights and bits are stored in my memory and I am eternally grateful for that.

Needless to say, adventure and beauty can always be found, especially in your own back yard! You can also check out my post about the Albuquerque International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta that happens every year in October.