We have found that driving four to six hours in a day is pretty reasonable if you stop every couple hours to get out and walk around. And we like to frequent State and National Parks if we can. That is how we found Messilla State Park, in Mesilla, NM.
The Park had a couple of hiking trails and we took advantage of one. It took us through the landscape by the Rio Grande River. The nature trails are self-guided and provide examples of regional flora.
The people at the visitor center were very friendly. One ranger, in particular, was very eager to share historical knowledge with us. He told us about much of the Civil War fighting that happened in the area with rich detail of the feeling of those involved and not involved. And when he found out we were headed further west, he shared more recent history about Poncho Villa, and the US reaction.
According to the ranger GEN Pershing was litigating the fighting against Poncho Villa, during the Mexican Revolution. He also informed us that it was one of the first military actions where motorized vehicles were used. He also quizzed us about the three prominent WWII generals who ‘cut their teeth’ out west. Two fought with Pershing as young lieutenants and one of the two actually crossed into Mexico. The third was known for his involvement in the Veracruz operation. Between Donna and I we got all three correct. Bradley, Patton, and MacArthur
It was a very interesting stop, and we enjoyed the conversation and the scenery. The Ranger suggested we make it to Poncho Villa State Park. We’ll have to check that out next time.
….and what stop in New Mexico would be complete without a UFO??? We found this one at the New Mexico Welcome Center…and it made us laugh!