Fun Travel in the Mountain West

The U.S Mountain West states offer some of the best and most diverse travel experiences in North America.

The mountain and desert geography gives every tourist abundant opportunities for great photos as well as terrific hiking adventures. In a lot of ways, the mountain west is all about the outdoors.

Yes, things have changes since the days of the Old West but most of the Old West towns, many you may already have heard of have survived and their history has survived with them as well. You'll still be able to taste the Old West lifestyle and add to it the great travel stops found in the big cities of Phoenix, Albuquerque, Las Vegas, Denver, Salt Lake City and more.

Below you'll find the kind of fun travel sites to add to your next road trip out west. We've listed interesting travel stops in the states of Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico. These are just a small sampling of sites. You'll find many additional western U.S. travel stops on this website westerntrips.blogspot.com  and also on www.tripsintohistory.com

Arizona
 
Arizona's old west includes towns such as Prescott, Yuma, Tucson, Tombstone, Benson and more. Arizona is the Grand Canyon state and in addition to the breathtaking views there you can enjoy a scenic train ride between Williams and the Grand Canyon South Rim on the famous Grand Canyon Railroad. Here you can ride along 45 miles of track laid back in the 1800's during the great mining days of Colorado.

Tucson's rich old west history will call for a stroll through Old Town with it's historic buildings. Old Tucson is Where the Spirit of the Old West Comes Alive! Just to the west of Tucson is the Old Tucson Studios where many a western movie was filmed. Old Tucson Studios today is a theme park just west of Tucson, adjacent to the Tucson Mountains and close to the western section of Saguaro National Park.

Prescott, which at one time was the capital of the old Arizona Territory, is rich in old west history and was a major destination of old Arizona stage coaches. 

Colorado

Aside from the mile high city of Denver, Colorado Springs and Pueblo...the state has a rich history of mining with many of these old mining towns still in existence. In the southwest portion of the state is Durango with it's beautiful mountains, horse back riding, and the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Ride this historic train on 45 miles of rails originally laid in 1882 between the mining town of Silverton and the railroad-built town of Durango.

Alamosa is a two and one half hour drive north of Santa Fe New Mexico which makes it a good addition while visiting in Santa Fe.

Where the early railroad laid rails to, in many instances, decided what towns prospered and what towns faded away. In the case of Alamosa, the real engine of growth was the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad which built to it in June of 1878 from Garland Colorado to the east and eventually continued onward. Alamosa, which means cottonwood in Spanish, is the place to stay when visiting nearby attractions including the Great Sand Dunes National Park which is located about thirty-eight miles northeast of town.

New Mexico 

Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Taos have long been popular travel destinations. Albuquerque which is the largest city in the state has a very interesting Old Town area, just west of present day downtown, and features many historic buildings and sites as well as a great selection of restaurants. Add to that the Sandia Peak Tramway just north of the city and you'll be assured a fun visit.

Santa Fe, the City Different, is the state capital with it's historic Plaza. Add to that Loretta Chapel, St Francis Basilica and terrific museums. Shopping is great and you'll find some of the finest dining and hotels in the state.

Taos is a city that inspires, amazes, and captures the hearts of all who visit this scenic mountain town. Taos has a scenic Plaza lines with shops and restaurants. Visit the old home of Kit Carson who called Taos his home. Today the home is a terrific museum displaying artifacts from Kit Carson and the old Taos days. Another good stop is the old Charles Bent House, once owned by the first governor of the New Mexico Territory, and now an interesting museum. Just north of town is the Taos Pueblo. Taos Pueblo is  a living Native American community located at the base of the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains.  It is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark.

Mesilla is located next to Las Cruces and is both the most visited old community in southern New Mexico as well as one of the most historic. Mesilla's location placed it in the direct path of many historical events of the mid 1800's including the American Civil War. 

Mesilla's distance from the old Territorial capital at Santa Fe and the more populated northern New Mexico area meant that lawlessness was a major factor to contend with not to mention a running battle with various Apache tribes. Mesilla was also a stop during the days of the Butterfield Stage Route between St. Louis and San Francisco. 

Silver City sits atop a site that has been home to Native American, Hispanic and Anglo settlers for hundreds of years. The town was named Silver City because rich deposits of chloride silver were discovered just west of town during the 1870's. Silver City is the site of two historic district downtown hotels. One is named The Palace Hotel and the other The Murray Hotel. Lots of historic buildings including the unique Silver City Museum will be found along with good dining choices and shopping. 


(Photos and article copyright Western Trips)

Early Rock and Roll Hits From Clovis New Mexico

The music recording studio located on 7th Street in Clovis New Mexico played a big part in the early years of the Rock and Roll industry.

Artists who recorded at the Norman Petty Recording Studios included Buddy Holly and the Crickets, Roy Orbison, Buddy Knox, Waylon Jennings, Sonny West, Jimmy Gilmer and the Fireballs, Charlie Phillips, Jimmy Bowen, Johnny Duncan, Carolyn Hester, Chita Rivera and many others.

Norman Petty Studios, Clovis, NM

Norman Petty Studios, Clovis, NM

The Norman Petty Studios If you're are a big fan of Buddy Holly, you will definitely want to add a stop at the Norman Petty Studios in Clovis NM.

In fact, if you're a fan of Rock and Roll, a tour of this studio is a must. Norman Petty made music history in this very same studio.During the early 1950's Norman Petty formed a trio with Jack Vaughan and Petty's wife Vi. The trio had a huge hit with the Duke Ellington song "Mood Indigo".

The "Clovis Sound" made popular by such greats as Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison, was created and recorded in Clovis at the Norman Petty Recording Studio. This small studio on 7th Street helped shape American Rock & Roll. During the early 1950s, Petty formed a musical trio with his wife Vi, and a friend Jack Vaughan. This "Norman Petty Trio" scored a big hit with the Petty penned song ‘Mood Indigo’, which ended up selling over half a million copies.

Buddy Holly and the Crickets cut their first demos in Clovis in 1956 . Buddy Holly and the Crickets lived in Lubbock Texas, about 90 miles southeast of Clovis and made the drive up U.S. Hwy 84 many times for their recording sessions. In just a matter of a few months hits like “That’ll Be the Day” and “Peggy Sue” boosted them, and the Norman Petty Studios, into the international spotlight.

Norman Petty is often referred to as one of the greatest sound engineers in American history.
You'll find a lot of original equipment still there. The history of this studio is outstanding. Visit the old recording studio and you may have a chance to sit on the same chair that Buddy Holly sat in and see the microphone Buddy used to record many of his hits from the 1950's. You may even be given a chance to sing into this very same microphone yourself. To say a visit to the Norman Petty Studios in Clovis New Mexico is a unique experience is an understatement.

The studio is set up today the very same way it was during the late 1950's when Buddy Holly recorded there. The studios were active all the way into the 1990's.Tours are by appointment only, and should be booked well in advance. The studio is located at 1313 West 7th St., Clovis, NM. Phone 505-763-7565.

Norman and Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum

The Norman and Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum

Today, the Norman and Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum, which opened in September 2008, preserves the artifacts, culture and equipment of the studio’s heyday. Visitors learn how a hit record was made – the business and the technology – and revisit the stories of the many musical legends who recorded in Clovis. This museum highlights the Clovis' rich musical background and it's intention is to complement all the music history that was made at the 7th Street recording studios. 

As of this writing, the museum is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The museum address is 105 E. Grand Ave, Clovis, NM.

You may enjoy the Western Trips articles on the links below...

Visit the Buddy Holly Center in Lubbock TX

Visit the Roger Miller Museum in Erick Oklahoma

Visit Post Texas / The Town Built by C.W. Post

An excellent book regarding Norman Petty and the hits recorded at the Norman Petty Studios in Clovis New Mexico is...The King of Clovis - Norman Petty: American Music Legend: The Man Behind Rock 'n Roll's Greatest Artists by author Frank Blanas.

 The Clovis Music Festival 

One of the best times to visit the Norman Petty Studios and the Norman and Vi Petty Rock & Roll Museum is during the annual Clovis Music Festival. The year 2014 is the 27th anniversary of the Clovis Music Festival.The Festival is planned each year during the second weekend of September.  The Clovis Music Festival is a tribute to the influential musicians that recorded their music in the Norman Petty recording studios and had an impact on Clovis.
For more information about the festival including schedules and events see website www.clovismusicfestival.net 
Clovis is the capital of the High Plains when it comes to great family activities and events, a community full of friendly people and a rich history rooted in music. Don't miss out on some of the coolest music history in Clovis New Mexico.  (Article and photos copyright 2014 Western Trips)  

Gems Across The Texas / New Mexico Route 66 Segment

Route 66 Through Texas

Historic Route 66 enters Texas in the Panhandle region as it moves westward out of Oklahoma. It's estimated that more than 150 miles of the original 178 still exist in Texas. When you enter Texas from Oklahoma on Interstate 40 you're closely following the old historic route. From the Oklahoma border westward toward Amarillo Route 66 lies mainly to the south of the Interstate. From Amarillo westward to the New Mexico border, the Mother Road runs north of the Interstate.


Route 66 Through New Mexico

The topography along Route 66 through New Mexico is very much different than how the road runs through Texas. The New Mexico topography has always posed challenges. New Mexico’s elevation along this path varies from a low of 3,800 feet at the Texas border to over 7,200 feet at the Continental Divide near the town of Thoreau, creating a roadbed characterized by climbs, descents, switchbacks and cuts.

Traversing New Mexico east to west along roughly the 35th parallel has been difficult even before Route 66 was constructed. That being said, the New Mexico portion of the Mother Road offers scenery like no other.

Travel Stops Along Route 66

We want to highlight several interesting stops along this Texas/New Mexico segment of the Mother Road. These are not the only interesting stops by all means but they should give you a good idea of what's in store.

Historic U Drop Inn, Shamrock, TX

Shamrock Texas

Shamrock got it's name in 1890 from it's first supposed postmaster, George Nickle, who actually never opened up his post office. Nickle was a local rancher and suggested the name Shamrock which would stand for good luck and courage. A post office was eventually opened by a woman named Mary Jones who used Shamrock as the name for the settlement.


What would be more natural then celebrating Saint Patrick's Day in Shamrock Texas? Shamrock's Saint Patrick's Day event dates all the way back to 1938. A man by the name of Glenn Truax thought that Shamrock, with it's name and Irish immigrant history, would be the ideal spot for an annual Saint Patrick's Day celebration that would draw thousands of attendees. The celebration continues to this day.


Amarillo Texas Sixth Street Historic District

Today, to see some of the remnants of this historic highway in Amarillo Texas, you'll want to make a fun visit to Amarillo's Sixth Street Historic District. This is a thirteen block area west of downtown Amarillo in the San Jacinto Heights Addition. Amarillo is the largest city in Texas that the old Route 66 passed through. The good thing is that it still indeed does pass through.

This historic district is a collection of commercial buildings that are associated with the famed highway. Shopping, restaurants and unique shops are what is now part of this area of Amarillo's nightlife scene. For anyone out there who might remember the days of the old Route 66 this is definitely a must stop.

Blue Swallow Court, Tucumcari, NM

Tucumcari New Mexico

At it's peak, Tucumcari offered travelers some 2,000 hotel rooms. It was considered the gateway to New Mexico. Today, the number is a fraction of that amount. There is however a Tucumcari motel that has survived over all of those decades and that is the Blue Swallow Motel. Originally called the Blue Swallow Court, the Tucumcari NM hotel was built between 1930-1941 and it's believed to have opened for business in 1941.

Before the automobile descended upon it, Tucumcari was a railroad town. Tucumcari was founded in 1901 even before Quay County itself was established. The year 1901 was also the time that the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad built a construction camp in what is now the western portion of Quay County. The Rock Island camp was originally given the nickname of "Six Shooter Siding" because of it's too numerous gunfights.

Exhibit at Route 66 Auto Museum

Santa Rosa New Mexico

There's more than one interesting vintage and classic car museum along the old Route 66 and one with a fascinating large collection is the Route 66 Auto Museum in Santa Rosa New Mexico. Santa Rosa is on Interstate 40 between Amarillo and Albuquerque. Santa Rosa is one of those towns that the Interstate goes directly past yet the main street through town is a part of the original Route 66. On your next western road trip through this part of the country, exit Interstate 40 at Santa Rosa, drive through the main town area of restaurants, motels and shops and you'll be treated to a great display of vintage cars that have marvelously restored.

You may also enjoy the Western Trips articles on the links below...

Visit the Gallup Cultural Center

The Corner in Winslow Arizona 

Visit Arizona's Lowell Observatory 


A fun and fact filled read regarding the old Route 66 includes an excellent small booklet with plenty of photos and images titled ...Traveling Route 66, 2,250 Miles of Motoring History from Chicago to L.A. by author Nick Freeth.


Rio Puerco Bridge

There is one preserved old Route 66 landmark bridge which is located just west of Albuquerque along Interstate 40. The Rio Puerco Bridge was constructed in 1933 as part of the Federal Government's program  to use emergency money for highway construction.

This particular stretch of highway which is still preserved next to the bridge became a part of the official Route 66 alignment in 1937. The bridge design is a common one for the era. The bridge also had to be strong enough to endure possible flooding which had occurred several times. The bridge went under renovation in 1957 which included the addition of guard rails to help protect the trusses.

The Hotel to the Movie Stars / Gallup New Mexico 

The list of stars who appeared in movies shot around Gallup seems almost endless. Humphrey Bogart, Ronald Reagan, Spencer Tracey, Burt Lancaster, Gregory Peck, Joan Crawford, Doris Day, Kirk Douglas, Lucille Ball and many more. The list is a who's who of Hollywood during the mid 1900's.

El Rancho during 1940's and 50's

The stars traveling to Gallup needed a place to stay and the El Rancho ,built in 1937 by the brother of director D.W.Griffith, was the residence of choice for many of them.

If you're a old western movie fan and traveling through Gallup on Interstate-40, a stop at the El Rancho is a must. The lobby area still has it's old west theme and rooms are named after the celebrities who stayed there. Also a lot of great pictures and autographs on display.

Taking a trip along the old Route 66 through Texas and New Mexico is a real trip into history. While Interstate 40 has done away with large segments of the old Mother Road, there still remains many interesting and historic landmarks would make an excellent addition on your vacation planner while traveling through the Southwest. 

(Article and photos copyright 2014 Western Trips. Photo of El Rancho in the public domain)

Visit the Gallup Cultural Center / New Mexico

The Gallup Cultural Center was a project put together by the Southwest Indian Foundation and the city of Gallup New Mexico. If your western travels take you through Gallup you will want to add this venue to your trip planner. You'll find the Gallup Cultural Center filled with exhibits and information about the people who inhabit this part of New Mexico.

Gallup Cultural Center

In addition, the Gallup Cultural Center serves as a compete community center with it's Gallup Visitors Center, the Storyteller Museum and the Master's Gallery. There is also a gift shop and cafe.

The Southwest Indian Foundation

The Southwest Indian Foundation was started in 1968 by Fr. Dunstan Schmidlin.The overall goal of the foundation is first, to recognize the great human potential of each individual; and second, to offer those in need a hand - not a handout.

The SWIF assistance is strictly limited to Native Americans - with priority given to the elderly, handicapped, and families with dependent children. Along with the Navajo people, we also serve the Zuni, Hopi, and other pueblo tribes of the area. According to the SWIF website their services include: Substantial school grants and individual tuition assistance, homes for battered women and children, home repair and wood stove installation, Christmas food baskets for needy families, alcohol counseling, and emergency assistance in the areas of food, clothing, heating fuel, and temporary shelter. For more information about the Southwest Indian Foundation see their website at www.southwestindian.com

Gallup Cultural Center Amtrak Station

The Gallup Cultural Center

The Gallup Cultural Center resides inside the restored 1918 Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway station. This was also a Fred Harvey House. In 1923 Santa Fe Railroad architect Mary Colter's fabulous El Navajo hotel was added on to the depot on it's west side. Mary Coulter is known to have designed most of the Fred Harvey Houses throughout the west. The hotel was demolished during the 1950's to help widen Route 66.

In 1996 the City of Gallup turned to the Southwest Indian Foundation requesting the Foundation take possession of the historic and newly renovated Sante Fe Depot. The City asked the Foundation to turn the building into a Cultural Center. Today, this fine cultural center draws thousands of tourists annually. It's the perfect place to gain knowledge about the Native American people and the region.


Gallup Cultural Center Exhibits and Programs

With a focus on American Indian culture, arts, and crafts, rotating exhibits from local artists fill the galleries, while educational tours of the area are also available. A 10ft-tall bronze sculpture of a Navajo code-talker shown in this article honors the sacrifices made by many men of the Navajo Reservation during WWII. A small theatre screens films about Chaco Canyon and the Four Corners region. Both of these sites make great additions to your travels around this part of New Mexico.

In the summer there are live Indian dances every night at 7:00pm.

See the Western Trips articles on the links below... 

Visit Red Rock State Park just a few miles east of Gallup NM

Gallups' Historic El Rancho Hotel

A Visit to Winslow Arizona

The Storyteller Museum

The Storyteller Museum within the Gallup Cultural Center allows visitors to explore trains, weaving, sandpainting, Historic Route 66, silversmithing, and more. Included are in-depth audio interviews with experts.

Entrance to Gallup Cultural Center on old Rte 66

Scenery at Red Rock State Park

Gallery of the Masters

The exclusive "Masters Gallery" contains the art of the "Reunion of the Masters"; and in keeping with their mission, 25% of all sales go back into the Children’s Art Scholarship and School Awards program.

The "Reunion of the Masters" is a non-profit organization made up of a group of world-renowned Native American artists from the Four Corners area. They are painters, sculptors, weavers, potters, and more from the various tribes in our area

Visiting Gallup New Mexico

Gallup New Mexico represents everything that makes a New Mexico vacation a fun experience. Historic structures like the El Rancho Hotel, the Gallup Cultural Center described in this article, mountain biking and hiking trails and Native American products are all found in and around Gallup.

Native American art exhibit

A very easy to reach destination, Gallup is located along Interstate 40 about a 2 hour and 10 minute drive west of Alburquerque and about a 2 hour and 50 minute derive east of Flagstaff Arizona.

Add a trip up to Window Rock Arizona as part of your Gallup visit. Window Rock is just 26 miles northwest of Gallup and can be reached in about 30 minutes. Window Rock Arizona is the capital of the Navajo Nation. The Navajo Nation consists of the largest Native American tribe in North America. The town is a great venue for educational, historical and cultural enrichment for the entire family

The Gallup Cultural Center is located at 201 E. Historic Rte. 66

(Article and photos copyright 2014 Western Trips)


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A Billy The Kid Tour of New Mexico

The story of outlaw Billy the Kid is one that has endured well over 125 years. Much of his story has to do with his involvement in the infamous Lincoln County War in New Mexico, his killing of Sheriff Pat Brady in the town of Lincoln, his pursuit by lawman Pat Garrett and his demise at the hands of Garret at a ranch outside of Fort Sumner New Mexico in 1881.

Western Trips has visited some of the sites involved in this story which can be visited today as part of your next New Mexico travel adventure. In many ways the story of Billy the Kid and the violent period of the Lincoln County War tells part of the story of early New Mexico Territory and the lawlessness of the latter half of the 1800's.

Tourists with an interest in old west history will enjoy traveling to some of the historic sites we have described below.

Who Was Billy the Kid?

Often times there are several versions of events when it comes to tales of the old west. The story of Billy the Kid is no different and perhaps the most controversial of all.  Controversy exists to this present day as to where he was actually born, his high crimes and the circumstances of his demise at the hands of a New Mexico lawman in 1881. Our brief version of events are the closest we have found to represent the most accurate account.

There has always been a degree of controversy as to what Billy the Kids real name was. While he went by the name of William H. Bonney, the Kid was thought to have been born William Henry McCarty Jr. around 1859. His birthplace has been speculated as New York City but there has never been proof of this.

1870's log cabin, Silver City NM

Billy the Kids mother remarried and moved to Silver City New Mexico around 1873 where her son took the last name of his new stepfather and went by the name of Henry McCarty Antrim. While in Silver City Billy attended the Sixth Street Elementary School. After Billy's mother died of consumption in 1874 he left Silver City and his stepfather for Arizona and lived and worked on his own.

Trouble was not far away and after the Kid fell in with the wrong crowd he found himself in a fight in Arizona where he killed his first man. This was at the age of sixteen. This was his start in a life of crime.Shortly after Billy drifted back to New Mexico Territory and Lincoln County and became a cattle rustler.

The Billy the Kid Cabin in Silver City New Mexico

Silver City New Mexico is a very scenic and historic old town of New Mexico which is a great stop to add to your travel planner. The town was named Silver City because rich deposits of chloride silver were discovered just west of town during the 1870's. Located about 230 miles south of Albuquerque and about 40 miles west of Interstate 25, Silver City is the jumping off point to some of the most popular attractions in New Mexico. 

See our Western Trips article about Silver City and it's nearby attractions on the link below...

A Visit to Silver City New Mexico

When you visit the historic district of Silver City you'll be able to explore a log cabin from the movie set of "The Missing" and donated to Silver City by the film's director Ron Howard. The cabin is at the site of the Murray Ryan Visitors Center which is also the site where Billy and his mother lived.

Old Santa Fe Jail site

The New Mexico Jails That Held Billy the Kid

Billy the Kid was captured by Sheriff Pat Garrett and his posse in December 1880. After the arrest he was taken to Santa Fe and locked up in the old Santa Fe jail. Billy had actually lived for a time in Santa Fe New Mexico with his mother and did have acquaintances there. One of his jobs in Santa Fe was as a dishwasher at what is now the La Fonda Hotel on the plaza.

Billy the Kid was to stand trial for the murders of Sheriff William Brady and a man named Buckshot Roberts of Lincoln County. The trial however was transferred to Mesilla New Mexico and Garret and his men transported him there. The Kid was found guilty in the April 1881 Mesilla trial and was sentenced to hang. Because the murders took place in Lincoln County the execution was scheduled to occur there on May 13, 1881. Once again Sheriff Garrett and his men transported Billy back to Lincoln. While awaiting his execution date the Kid grabbed a jail guards shotgun and killed him. After shooting and killing another guard he stole a horse and escaped Lincoln.

The locations of the jails in New Mexico that held Billy the Kid can be visited today.  A lot of research was done to pinpoint the exact location of the old Santa Fe jail.  Walk west down San Francisco Street and you’ll come upon a plaque on the side of a building on the south side of the street. This plaque marks the site of the old Santa Fe jail that at one time, and probably more than once, housed the infamous Billy the Kid.

See our Western Trips tour of Mesilla New Mexico on the link below...

Mesilla NM and the Mesilla Valley

Old courthouse and jail, Mesilla NM

In Mesilla which is located just a few miles outside Las Cruces and about 45 miles north of El Paso Texas is one of the oldest settlements in southern New Mexico. It was here where Billy the Kid was jailed and tried for murder. The old building built around 1850 that served as the courthouse and jail is on the southeast corner of the Mesilla plaza. Today the building serves as the Billy the Kid Gift Shop. Mesilla New Mexico is easy to reach with both Interstate 10 and Interstate 25 close by.

In the old town of Lincoln, once the county seat of the very large Lincoln County, is the old Lincoln County Courthouse and Jail. This was the jail where Billy the Kid was transported to after his Mesilla trail and from where he escaped before his date with the executioner. Lincoln was made famous during one of the most violent years in New Mexico history during the period of the Lincoln County War. The war was so bloody,widespread and long that federal troops were sent in to try to restore order. Some of the troops sent in were part of the Buffalo Soldiers regiments.

Old courthouse and jail, Lincoln NM

Visitors to Lincoln today can tour the old courthouse and jail and explore exhibits which detail events during the Lincoln County War. Lincoln is located about 57 miles west of Roswell New Mexico via U.S. Hwy 380.


The End of the Line at Fort Sumner

Fort Sumner New Mexico is located 166 miles southwest of Amarillo Texas and about 158 miles east of Albuquerque NM. It is also about 44 miles southeast of Santa Rosa NM and Interstate 40.

It was at a ranch near Fort Sumner that Sheriff Pat Garrett hunted down Billy the Kid and shot him dead. Fort Sumner is also the location of Billy the Kid's grave site.

See our Western Trips article on Fort Sumner on the link below...

Fort Sumner and the Bosque Redondo

 

Billy the Kid grave site, Fort Sumner NM

Adjacent to the Billy the Kid grave site is the Old Fort Sumner Museum, one of two museums in Fort Sumner, with a very large collection of frontier artifacts and firearms from the 1800's and interesting items and information concerning Billy directly. This site is about 4 miles east from the center of Fort Sumner. It is about one-half mile south of U.S. 60/84 on Billy the Kid Road.

The second museum, The Billy the Kid Museum, is on the main highway U.S. 60/84 (Sumner Ave.) which goes directly through Fort Sumner. The museum is about two miles east of Fort Sumner.  If you're a lover of old west history then the museums in Fort Sumner are very well worth a visit. Both museums are just a few miles apart and it's fun and convenient to visit both.

(Article copyright 2014 Western Trips. NM map image and Lincoln Jail photo in public domain. Remaining photos from Western Trips collection)

Traveling on the Old Spanish Trail

It was an ancient trail and to the Spaniards it meant a vital trade route between their colony in Nuevo Mexico and Alta California. Interestingly enough, this strategic trail is one of least known of the historic trails of North America. Like many of the old western trails, this trail through America's southwest brought Europeans in contact with many Native American tribes for the first time.

The Old Spanish Trail route

 The Old Spanish Trail actually predates both the famous Santa Fe Trail and the Overland Trail traversed by many of the pioneers heading west beginning in the 1840's.

The trail that we refer to as the Old Spanish Trail was, for the most part, originally used by ancient Native Americans. It were largely these ancient trails that connected to form the trail used by the Spaniards as early as 1670.

The Old Spanish Trail, some 1,120 miles in length, while used by the Spaniards for commerce and migration as well as for transporting Native American slaves, dates to the late 1600's. It was not until about 1830, after the Spaniards had left North America and the Mexican government was formed that the trail was used as a regular commercial route.

The Mormans used the western part of the trail beginning in the 1840's as a wagon route for settlers heading west. The Mormon presence on the Old Spanish Trail disrupted the transportation of slaves over the route.  That part of the trail is also referred to as the "Mormon Corridor".

Los Angeles plaza, 1869

A Winding Route to California

The Old Spanish Trail was anything but a straight line. Leaving Santa Fe New Mexico, the route traveled west/northwest toward Utah. What was being circumnavigated were the Grand Canyon and the Glen Canyon, two obstacles that were too formidable to cross. The north branch of the trail crossed the San Luis Valley in present day southern Colorado.

Heading westward the trail crosses central and southern Utah where it took another turn to the south. The present day town of Ucolo Utah is where the Old Spanish Trail entered that state. The trail crosses the Colorado River near the present day town of Moab Utah. The next river crossed in Utah was the Green River.

The trail continues to the north of San Rafael Swell and reached it's northernmost point in present day Emery County Utah. After that the Old Spanish Trail runs across the Great Basin  and through the Mojave Desert on it's way toward Los Angeles.

Palace of the Governors, Santa Fe plaza

In 1829 the Armijo Route segment of the trail was established that followed a more westward direction crossing southern Utah and northern Arizona and originated near Abiquiu New Mexico. There were also branches of the Old Spanish Trail that had it going north from Santa Fe to Taos and then into Colorado and the San Luis Valley. Another branch went more northwest from Santa Fe through a settlement named Abiquiu and then northwestward toward present day Durango Colorado.

Woolen goods, mostly blankets and rugs were transported west by the New Mexicans which during that period was referred to as Nuevo Mexico. The largest traffic on the reverse route eastward were horses and mules.

Old Spanish Trail Historic Sites to See Today

Today, the Old Spanish National Historic Trail covers the states of New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Arizona and California. Santa Fe New Mexico itself served as a hub since it tied in directly with the Santa Fe Trail connecting to eastern markets.

There are museums and historic sites all along the way that can be fun additions to your next western trip. The trail is so lengthy that starting from any location such as Santa Fe, New Mexico; Alamosa and Durango, Colorado; Las Vegas, Nevada; St. George, Utah; Flagstaff, Arizona; and Los Angeles will work well.

More Western Trips photo articles of interest are on the links below...

The Pueblo Revolt and the Spaniards

The Ancient Cliff Dwellings in Colorado

Alamosa Colorado

Points of interest along the trail today include the Homestead Museum in the City Of Industry California (Los Angeles area) which was once part of a 49,000 acre rancho.

Another good museum to add to your western trip planner is the Museum of Moab in Moab Utah which displays many historic artifacts from the Old Spanish Trail days and before.

The San Luis Valley Museum in Alamosa Colorado has a large amount of information and exhibits about San Luis Valley history and it's Hispanic and Native American heritage.

Thirty miles west of Green River Utah is the San Rafael Swell. This geologic formation is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and as of this writing discussions are ongoing about making the area a National Historic Monument. Backpackers, hikers and horseback riders all enjoy exploring this beautiful part of Utah.

Historical markers along the old trail can be seen at Lake Las Vegas Nevada in the Las Vegas Valley.

Historical marker is seen at Cottonwood Draw Utah between Utah RT 6 and Green River Cut-off , in Parowan Utah and in Grand Junction Colorado.

San Rafael Swell Utah

Wagon and mule tracks can still be seen in the Mojave Desert on and west of the Alvord Mountains and in several sections east of Barstow California.

There are chapters of the Old Spanish Trail Associations in several communities along the way. These include the Southern Utah Chapter and the San Luis Valley Colorado Chapter. Additional information about the Old Spanish Trail and current events along the route as well as preservation efforts can be found at website www.old spanishtrail.org.

(Article copyright 2013 Western Trips. Old Spanish Trail route map image, 1869 Los Angeles plaza and San Rafael Swell photos from the public domain. Santa Fe plaza and Alamosa Colorado from Western Trips collection)

Fascinating Model Railroad Exhibits

One of the most fun things when touring the western United States is visiting old train depots. While old train stations are today in a variety of conditions, many have been beautifully restored and turned into museums which tell the story of a community and the railroad that once passed through it. When touring one of these stations don't be too surprised to come across some fascinating model railroad exhibits.

Often we've come across model railroad layouts that recreate an old rail yard and it's buildings that at one time stood in the town but have been lost to the decades. These exhibits are in the greatest detail possible and have obviously taken a long time and a lot of work to create. They also show you what at one time was the heyday of the railroad industry and just how important the railroad was to many communities nationwide.

Below we've listed some of these railroad depot museums with a look at the type of displays you'll see.

Ennis Texas

Ennis Texas, established in 1872, is located about 35 miles south of Dallas along Interstate 45. The town, like many towns, was named after a railroad official. Cornelius Ennis was a railroad official with the Houston & Texas Central Railroad as well as the Houston Tap and Brazoria Railroad and one time mayor of Houston.

Here you will want to make a stop at the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum. Inside the museum is a railroad display showing the original Ennis rail yard. Also on display is a station master's office, railroad dining car china, local historic artifacts and photos and an amazing large glass case collection of vintage locomotives and rolling stock. If you love model railroads this is a display you don't want to miss seeing. The Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum is aptly located near the rail tracks at 105 NE Main Street.

Belen New Mexico

Belen New Mexico is all about the history of the Atchison Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad. Belen is located about 36 miles south of Albuquerque along Interstate 25. The railroad museum with it's very large model railroad layout is located in the old Fred Harvey House Dining Room on the east side of town along the rail tracks.

Belen New Mexico, once a Spanish fort in the 1700's and later a town, to this day remains a busy railroad town being a major refueling and maintenance station for the BNSF railroad. The town is the site of the Belen Cut-off which connected Amarillo Texas to Belen beginning in 1907. The Belen Cut-off is a very busy route for freight traffic today connecting Belen to Clovis New Mexico on the Texas border.

The model railroad layout in the old Belen Harvey House is so large that it takes up three rooms. The model train and rail yard display was created by the Belen Model Railroad Club and if you're traveling in the area it's well worth the visit. The Belen Harvey House and Museum is located at 104 N. First Street.

Clovis New Mexico

Clovis New Mexico, like Belen, was and still is a very important railroad town. The AT & SF Railroad built the train depot and Clovis in 1907. This was part of the creation of the Belen Cut-off route.

The train station in Clovis not only handled passengers but also served as a division office for the railroad. Also, similar to Belen, Clovis sees about 100 trains pass through it daily. With increased rail traffic a Harvey House was also established in Clovis along the tracks.

The Clovis train depot now serves as a museum which includes an operating telegraph station along with a very impressive train layout and much more. There are four different  railroad scale layouts inside the museum...two O scale layouts, a standard gauge layout, an N scale layout and an S scale layout. The Clovis Depot Model Train Museum is located at 221 West First Street.

Two additional Western Trips articles you may enjoy are on the links below...

The Famous Santa Fe 5000 Steam Locomotive which is the world's largest

Northern California's Niles Canyon Railway

In addition to the sites listed above, some very creative model railroad exhibits can also be found at the Frisco Heritage Museum in Frisco Texas, a northern Dallas suburb. This museum is also the new home for the Museum of the American Railroad, a very comprehensive exhibit of old locomotives and rolling stock once located in Dallas. 

Another favorite is the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, covering 28,000 square feet, and which is the world's largest operating model railroad museum. This amazing model railroad museum is located at 1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA.

(Article and photos copyright 2013 Western Trips)

Visit a Rocket Museum in New Mexico

If you want to view a large variety of military rockets the National Nuclear Museum of Science and History is the place to visit.  It's a museum of everything nuclear from the birth of nuclear science to the future.

Navy Terrier surface to air missile

A visit to this fascinating both indoor and outdoor museum allows you to view planes, missiles, rockets and more plus a German V-2 Rocket from World War Two. Add to this a tail from the former U.S. nuclear submarine James K. Polk. The outdoor area of the museum occupies five acres.

The National Nuclear Museum of Science and History was originally chartered by Congress in 1969. It was first known as the National Atomic Museum prior to it's name change and was located at Kirkland Air Force Base in Albuquerque New Mexico before it's move to the current location a short distance north of the base.

Redstone Missile 

The Redstone Missile was developed in 1951 and was intended to be a surface to surface mobile rocket. The Redstone represented the United States' first large rocket and was produced by the Chrysler Corporation. It was liquid fueled burning alcohol and liquid oxygen. The rocket's first test launch occurred in 1953 at Cape Canaveral Florida. More test launches followed over several years and the Redstone was deployed in West Germany in 1958. 

Redstone Missile exhibit in Albuquerque

A good deal of the technology for building the Redstone was acquired by the U.S. after World War Two when they collected German rockets and the knowledge of German scientists. In fact, rockets made by the U.S. immediately after the war were based largely on German V-2 technology. 

The Redstone Rocket was mainly developed by German scientists including Werner von Braun. 

The U.S. found itself in a race against the Soviet Union who also wanted to collect as much German rocket technology as possible. The German missile experts that the U.S. could recruit were brought to Huntsville Alabama.

Jupiter Missile 

The Jupiter Missile similar to the one shown in this article was first deployed by the U.S. in Turkey in 1960 during the Cold War. These type missiles would also be deployed in Great Britain and Italy. The missile was designed by the Army Ballistic Missile Agency and succeeded the Redstone Missile. The first operational squadron for the Jupiter was created in 1958. 

Jupiter Missile exhibit

The rocket was a single stage and liquid fueled built by the Chrysler Corporation. The rocket was stored vertically and could be fired with about fifteen minutes notice and had a range of about 1,500 nautical miles. 

Jupiter Missiles came close to helping NASA with their Mercury space program. Eventually the Mercury-Jupiter program was dropped in favor of the Mercury-Redstone and Mercury-Atlas programs. Later on the Jupiter Missile did participate in NASA's Apollo space program. 


The Titan II ICBM 

First activated in 1962, the entire purpose of the Titan II ICBM program was to act as a deterrence. The missile's goal was to prevent a war not start one. The Titan II was designed with a warhead that could travel over 5,500 miles and with accuracy. It was a two stage liquid propelled rocket. The rocket's second stage carried a flight control and inertial guidance system. Dimensions included a length of 103 feet and a diameter of 120 inches. At launch the rocket weighed 327,000 lbs. The Titan II was the largest ICBM built by the United States.

Stage of Titan II Missile exhibit

As decades passed and treaties were entered into, the Titan II missile program was deactivated during the 1980's. 

The Western Trips photo article on the link below features a few additional exhibits at the museum.

The Nuclear Museum

Visiting the National Nuclear Museum of Science and History

The National Nuclear Museum of Science and History is located in southeast Albuquerque New Mexico at 601 Eubank Avenue SE. The museum is located south of Exit 165 on Interstate 40.This quite unique museum is a fun and educational venue for the entire family. There's a great many things to discover at the National Nuclear Museum of Science and History.

(Article and photos copyright 2013 Western Trips)

 

The Art and History of Arroyo Seco New Mexico

Arroyo Seco New Mexico is located in beautiful Taos County just seven miles north of the city of Taos and nearby Taos Pueblo. The village of about 1,500 residents is also only nine miles from the popular Taos Ski Valley. Arroyo Seco in Spanish translates into "dry creek". There were two streams running through the area that was the settlements source of water.

Picturesque Arroyo Seco NM

This unincorporated community at an elevation of 7,634 feet was first settled in 1804 over a Spanish land grant. Two brothers, Cristóbal Martínez and José Gregorio Martínez, moved to the area at that time and began planting crops. Shortly afterwards they built homes. This would have been during the time of Spanish rule over Nuevo Mexico. The Spaniards had settled Santa Fe to the south some 200 years prior.

Today, the economy of Arroyo Seco is predominantly from tourists and the area has a lot of vacation homes.

The Art and Events of Arroyo Seco

You'll find more than half a dozen very interesting art galleries in the little village of Arroyo Seco and is home to many artists and environmentalists. New Mexico art is one the state's biggest tourist draws. Along with visiting the galleries make a stop at Arroyo Seco Mercantile, a store first opened in 1895. Among other things there are wood carvings by local artists and Indian jewelry.

For a good meal stop by at Abe’s Cantina y Cocina. This is a market grill and a bar and a favorite of the locals and very affordable.

Mural on Arroyo Seco building

The biggest event of the year is the town's traditional Fourth of July Parade. People travel from all over to attend this event. At that time the village is closed off and almost everyone living in the town participates, some in costumes. You may well see burros and horses among the many automobiles. Featured in the parade are colorful floats and banners which all translate into a small town Fourth of July full of fun and very family friendly.


Northern New Mexico offers a fine collection of art galleries and Arroyo Seco is no exception.

Church of the Most Holy Trinity

The Church of the Most Holy Trinity was built in 1834 and has been restored during the 1990's. The church was built on what had been the land granted in 1745 by Joaquin Codallos y Rabal. An interesting historical fact is that the land had originally been granted to General Lucero de Godoy by the Viceroy of Mexico. He however never settled on the land. The town was not settled for another sixty years and where the church stands was at the site of the old plaza.

Restored Church of the Most Holy Trinity

The Church of the Most Holy Trinity was built by the famous La Fraternidad de Los Hermanos Penitentes de Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno along with their families and community members. These families arrived at Arroyo Seco in 1824.

The architecture of the church is quite impressive. Adobe walls are five feet thick at their base and about three feet on top. While many churches in New Mexico were built in the "Mission" style, the Church of the Most Holy Trinity would correctly be classified in the Mission Revival style. A Mission style church in New Mexico would have been one constructed in a pueblo. Some also refer to the architecture as Mission Revival and Northern New Mexican.

The church has an altar screen that dates all the way back to it's founding.

The church operates under the Archdiocese of Santa Fe and is open for mass.

The Abominable SnowMansion

The only hostel in the Taos vicinity is located at Arroyo Seco as the The Abominable SnowMansion. This hostel is in the former Gusdorf grocery. The hostel is very laid back and gives you the impression that you're staying in someone's private home. The prices are affordable, the rooms are comfortable and the kitchen is well stocked. Being so close to the Taos Ski Valley the hostel has visitors all through the year.

You may also enjoy the Western Trips photo articles on the links below...

New Mexico Pueblo Pottery

New Mexico Attractions

Abominable SnowMansion Hostel

Lucero Peak

Lucero Peak stands over Arroyo Seco. This 10,780 foot peak is the location of a cave which was the inspiration for D.H. Lawrence's story The Woman Who Rode Away. Lawrence had visited the area and the cave in 1924 with Mabel Dodge and others.The short story written by Lawrence follows one woman’s religious quest in Mexico.

If you enjoy mountain hiking you'll find several excellent trails in the Lucero Peak area.

A visit to Arroyo Seco New Mexico makes for a very pleasant and picturesque day trip. Being located only seven miles north of Taos, there are plenty of fun things to do and interesting places to visit in the immediate area. Taos is home to many art galleries, unique shops, the Taos Plaza, historic landmarks and the Kit Carson Home and Museum. Taos Pueblo is another excellent place to stop at. Taos Pueblo is the world's only living Native American community designated as a World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark.

(Article and photos copyright 2013 Western Trips)


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Santa Fe Ski Basin / New Mexico

One of the best things about driving up to the Santa Fe Ski Basin from the city is the absolutely gorgeous drive getting there. The total distance from where the road begins (Washington Street and Artist Road) is about 15 miles. This is 15 miles of winding road where you'll have some great vistas and some excellent photo opportunities. 

Cross Country ski trails

The road to the Santa Fe Ski Basin  passes directly through Hyde State Park which is about 7.5 miles up the mountain. 

Another 7 miles on the road past Hyde State Park and you're at the ski area. When you arrive at the top you'll find a very large parking area and a trail head if you're wanting to hike into the high mountain back country. 

The Ski Santa Fe area is located within the Santa Fe National Forest and is one of the largest in New Mexico along with the Ski Taos Resort about 2 1/2 hours north of Santa Fe.

One of New Mexico's Most Popular Ski Areas

During the winter months the Santa Fe Ski Basin is popular with both local skiers and skiers from across the country and the world. Because Santa Fe is a days drive from many points in Texas, you'll see plenty of Texas license plates in the parking lot, especially around winter holiday times.


The Santa Fe Ski area is situated high in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The elevation at the Ski basin base is 10,350 feet above sea level. This elevation makes the Santa Fe Ski Basin one of the highest ski areas in the United States. In addition to that, the Millennium Triple Chairlift will take skiers to a height of 12,075 feet. That is truly high.

Ski Equipment Rentals

Ski equipment and snowboard rentals are available at the base lodge and lessons are always available. There are also ski equipment rental companies in the city of Santa Fe as well as a rental facility at Hyde State Park. If you wish to avoid the early morning lines at the Ski Basin rental facility then renting your equipment before driving to the slopes is possible.

The lodge building also has food and beverages, lockers and a ski accessory and clothing shop. Also a great Bunny Trail for the youngsters.

Santa Fe Ski Basin chairlifts

Another thing that has always made the ski area popular is it's close proximity to the city of Santa Fe and it's good selection of lodgings and dining. There are no overnight accommodations on top of the mountain so people stay overnight in the city and enjoy the Santa Fe sights and entertainment.

Exploring the Ski Basin During Non-Winter Months

There are many things to do at and near the Ski Santa Fe area during non-winter months. Chair lift rides are available in the fall to take in the great scenery and change of colors. The mountain is filled with a mixture of Aspens and Firs and when fall arrives and the Aspens change to a golden color it's quite beautiful. Another very popular endeavor all over the mountain is trail hiking. Hyde State park itself has numerous hiking trails with a good mixture of easy and not so easy hikes.

La Piedra Trail is 1.6 miles long and connects with the popular Dale Ball Trail North to the Little Tesuque Creek Trail. The trail took two years to construct and opened in may of 2012.

The La Piedra Trail meant that for the first time people are able to get on Santa Fe trails near downtown and hike, bike or run all the way up to the Santa Fe Ski Basin. "You no longer have to go on paved road [Hyde Park Road] to get to the mountains," said Charlie O'Leary, executive director of the Santa Fe Conservation Trust. A good deal of the land needed for the trail was donated to the Trust.

“Since the founding of Santa Fe over 400 years ago, trail access to the mountains and nature has been important to residents and visitors alike," O'Leary said - See more at: http://www.santafe.com/article/first-major-trail-connection-in-over-a-decade-set-for-santa-fes-sangres#sthash.qR7Kaaqm.dpuf

“Since the founding of Santa Fe over 400 years ago, trail access to the mountains and nature has been important to residents and visitors alike," O'Leary said - See more at: http://www.santafe.com/article/first-major-trail-connection-in-over-a-decade-set-for-santa-fes-sangres#sthash.qR7Kaaqm.dpuf

The Trust had a Madrid NM firm called Anasazi Trails design and construct the trail.In addition to the trail building company many volunteers donated their time to help in it's building. The new la Piedra Trail is open to hikers, mountain bikers and snow shoe enthusiasts.

Below are links to additional Western Trips articles you may enjoy...

Hiking in New Mexico

Hiking Along the California Coast

Sangre de Cristo Mountain hiking trail

Hikers and Mountain Bikers Head to Santa Fe

Because the Santa Fe area has so many good trails it's recognized as one of the best places in the country for runners. The trail system around Santa Fe is divided into three sections: north, central, and south. The most challenging of the three sections, the southern area trails can turn your run into a hike. Don't let that discourage you because the views of the mountains are well worth it.

The trail systems can be accessed from Hyde State Park halfway to the Santa Fe Ski Basin or they can be accessed on the southern portion just a few miles east of the Santa Fe plaza on Upper Canyon Road. 

Another system of trails you should be aware begins at the Cruz Blanco Trailhead, southeast of downtown Santa Fe. This trail offers access to the 1.45 mile Dorothy Stewart and the 2.8 mile Atalaya Mountain trails.

(Article and photos copyright 2013 Western Trips)



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