Bosque del Apache Redux
The Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is one of the many hidden gems in the National Park portfolio, I've been constantly amazed by the beauty that is everywhere in the United States, it's one of the things I have appreciated most about our year on the road.
When we visited New Mexico in February I was surprised by how much Mr. Misadventures loved Bosque del Apache. I thought it was a pretty cool spot, but after spending a week visiting this refuge on numerous occasions, I can tell you it's pretty special.
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For nothing else, the sunrises…
…and the sunsets…
…are spectacular.
Then there are the birds, which are bountiful. The various species seem to live in harmony and each contributes its own instrument to the cacophony that is the daily occurring symphony here in this park.
During our visit this year there were thousands of Sandhill cranes in every part of the refuge, I couldn't get enough of their striking redheads. We had seen a couple one day while visiting Grand Teton in May, but the numbers at Bosque del Apache were incredible!
Admission is only $5 and it is definitely a park you can do in one day (don't miss the eagles) but I recommend two so that you ensure you see both a sunrise and sunset. Also, more of the park is open in the non-winter months with access to other water areas and hikes.
It is not that far from many locations, so plan a trip!
– 2 hours north of Las Cruces
– 1.5 hours south of Albuquerque
– 1 hour north of Elephant Butte (where we stayed)
How about you? Have you visited Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge? How about another wildlife refuge you're fond of? Do tell!
Like it? PIN IT!
Like it? PIN it!
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You weren’t kidding. Those are amazing sunsets! I haven’t been to this park before. But from your stunning pictures it looks like something we definitely should consider!
@Jolina, it really is worth it, hope you get there one day!
Oh wow absolutely stunning photos. Looks like a really incredible place to visit!
@Neely, thanks, it is pretty wonderful!
I have never been to New Mexico but it is on my travel bucket list. That photographer’s photos are stunning.
@Val, thanks, he’s my hubby 😉
This looks so beautiful! I’m actually pretty bummed because we had a cross-country trip through New Mexico and this was close to the route we took! I wish I had known about it then.
@Divya, that has totally happened to me before! That just means you need to do another road trip!
Lovely photos! You made me want to take a trip to New Mexico right now. However, I would rather wait for warmer weather to do that. Anyway, thanks for letting me know about another awesome place to take my family to.
@Jennifer, the state is pretty amazing! Try Spring or Fall for warmer, but not too warm, weather.
Unfortunately, I live too far from New Mexico, but of course, planning for a trip won’t hurt. I love those sunset photos! That place is indeed teeming with wildlife! So happy that the birds and other animals were given a protected area where they can be in their natural habitat.
@Annemarie, New Mexico was such a surprise to me, I HIGHLY recommend it for future trips!
That sandhill crane shot is money! So love the Mr.’s photography skills and how they’ve improved in the decade-ish since we met virtually =)
@Kristin, thank you, I will pass on the compliment. I agree too, I have seen such a progression over the years as well.
New Mexico is one of my favorite states in the US. It is so beautiful and deeply spiritual in a way that elevates our creativity.
I’ve never been there but after seeing your photos I really would like to go! I have been to a couple of wildlife refuges and I loved them all.
Beautiful wildlife and sunset!
Wow!!! Your photography is simply amazing!
The Beautiful birds, charming sceneries are mind blowing . Outstanding spot for traveler. My next trip must be New Mexico .
Wow girl, love your pins. Those are a work of art. Bosque del Apache was “the one that got away” for us. I live in Tucson for 18 years and never could make it when there was water there. The sunrise and sunset look so beautiful. I watched the sunset from Key West today, and it left me wanting for those Arizona / New Mexico beauties. They really are like nothing else in the world. The intensity of the cranes returning to the bosque is amazing too. The land transforms so quickly into an intense and vibrant ecosystem.