Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
(Driving Time: 3 hours, Distance: 200 miles)
- I'll be stunned by the rugged beauty and dramatic geology of the second-largest canyon in the United States, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and horseback riding in this vast natural wonder.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
(Driving Time: 4.5 hours, Distance: 290 miles)
- This park offers a taste of the Chihuahuan Desert and a chance to summit the highest peak in Texas, the iconic Guadalupe Peak, with incredible desert vistas along the way.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
(Driving Time: 4 hours, Distance: 250 miles)
- I can explore the depths of this massive underground cave system, marveling at the otherworldly rock formations and vast chambers carved out by nature over millions of years.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
(Driving Time: 6.5 hours, Distance: 430 miles)
- This artistic and cultural hub will charm me with its vibrant art scene, unique architecture, and rich history, all set against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
(Driving Time: 5.5 hours, Distance: 350 miles)
- I'll be mesmerized by the rugged desert landscapes, winding rivers, and stunning vistas of this remote park along the Rio Grande, offering endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and stargazing.
South Padre Island, Texas
(Driving Time: 6 hours, Distance: 390 miles)
- This lively beach town on the Gulf of Mexico promises sun-soaked days of swimming, surfing, and soaking up the laid-back island vibes, with plenty of beach bars and seafood shacks to enjoy along the way.