Discover the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park: A Hidden Gem in New Mexico
Explore the breathtaking diversity of the Chihuahuan Desert at this nature preserve in New Mexico, ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and discovering unique wildlife.
The Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park offers a stunning landscape filled with diverse flora and fauna, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike. Explore its trails, observe wildlife, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert environment.
A brief summary to Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park
- 56501 N Jornada Rd, Las Cruces, New Mexico, 88012, US
- +1575-524-3334
- Visit website
- Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7 am-5 pm
- Friday 7 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and better wildlife observation opportunities.
- Bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen, as the desert sun can be intense.
- Check the park’s website for any guided tours or special events that may enhance your visit.
- Make use of the visitor center to learn more about the local flora and fauna before exploring the trails.
Getting There
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Bus
From White Sands, walk to the nearest bus stop on US-70. Take the RoadRUNNER Transit bus number 1 towards Las Cruces. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the stop at Lohman Avenue. From there, transfer to bus number 4 towards the North Main Street. Ride for another 10 minutes until you reach the stop at Jornada Road. Walk about 500 feet north on Jornada Road, and you will arrive at Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park.
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Bicycle
If you have a bicycle, start at the White Sands Visitor Center. Head south on the main road until you reach the junction with US-70. Turn left onto US-70 and continue cycling for approximately 15 miles to Las Cruces. Once you reach Las Cruces, follow the signs leading to Jornada Road, then continue north for about 2 miles until you reach Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start from the White Sands Visitor Center and head towards US-70. Walk along US-70 heading west for about 15 miles. Once you reach Las Cruces, turn left onto Jornada Road and continue walking north for about 1 mile until you arrive at Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park.
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Taxi or Rideshare
You can use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride to 'Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park, 56501 N Jornada Rd, Las Cruces, NM 88012'. The driver will take you directly to the entrance of the park, which is about a 20-minute drive from White Sands.
Discover more about Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
NASA - White Sands Test Facility
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Sandia Botanicals Las Cruces
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Border Servant Corps
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Meerscheidt Center
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Las Cruces Dog Park
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Jardin de Mesquite
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The Pecan Grill and Brewery
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Mesilla Valley Mall
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Truth or Consequences Brewing Co. - Las Cruces
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Las Cruces City Hall
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Unidad Park
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Fort Selden Historic Site
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Las Cruces Regional Aquatic Center
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Branigan Cultural Center
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Las Cruces Museum of Art
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Museum of Nature & Science
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Young Park
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Las Cruces Downtown Plaza
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World's Largest Chile Pepper
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Essential places to dine
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McDonald's
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Los Mariachis Restaurant
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Moongate Cafe
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The Game II - Sports Grill
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Ruby Tuesday
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Sunset Grill
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Burger Nook
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Kohl's
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Savers
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Madrid Retail Center
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Target
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Chico's
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White Sands V-2 Launching Site
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