Best Road Trip from Alamogordo, NM to Woods Cross, UT: The Ultimate Guide

Are you ready to hit the road and explore the beauty of the American Southwest? A road trip from Alamogordo, New Mexico to Woods Cross, Utah is a journey that will take you through stunning landscapes, historic sites, and incredible natural wonders. This route will take you through a variety of climates, from desert sands to snow-capped mountains. There are plenty of amazing places to visit along the way, so let’s dive right into it.

White Sands National Park

Starting off this list is the White Sands National Park, located just a few miles southwest of Alamogordo. This park is famous for its stunning white sand dunes that stretch over 275 square miles, covering the heart of the Tularosa Basin. The sand here is made of gypsum, which gives it a unique white color and makes it feel like you're walking on snow. The White Sands attract visitors from all over the world and it's easy to understand why. It's a mesmerizing place that looks like it's from another planet.

Las Cruces

Not far from Alamogordo is the city of Las Cruces. It's a vibrant city that has a rich cultural history. Las Cruces is home to several museums, including the Branigan Cultural Center and the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum. Both museums offer visitors the chance to learn about the area’s history and culture. There are also several art galleries, restaurants, and outdoor activities such as hiking and biking trails.

Tinkertown Museum

As you travel along the road, a quirky and interesting stop to make is the Tinkertown Museum. It's a 22-room museum full of over 50,000 pieces of hand-carved miniatures, dolls, and toys. The creator of this museum, Ross Ward, spent over 40 years traveling around the world collecting unique pieces to add to his museum. The museum tells stories and has themes that will keep you intrigued and entertained.

Albuquerque

The largest city in the state of New Mexico, Albuquerque is just a short drive north of Tinkertown Museum. It’s a vibrant city with a diverse culture that is evident in the many art galleries, museums, and food. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to be had, such as the Sandia Mountains, which offer great hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.

Bandelier National Monument

As you head northwards, it’s worth taking a detour to the Bandelier National Monument. A place that provides a snapshot of the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived here over 400 years ago. The park features a great hiking trail, the Main Loop Trail, which takes visitors through a series of ancient dwellings and structures. It's a fascinating experience, and the views of the rugged landscape from the top are stunning.

Taos

Taos is a charming town that is worth spending some time in before reaching Woods Cross. The town is known for its Pueblo-style architecture and for being a hub of creativity and art. There are several galleries and museums to visit, and the Kit Carson House and Museum is a must-see. Taos is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty; the Taos Ski Valley and Wheeler Peak are popular spots for winter sports.

Snowbasin Resort

As you head into Utah, Snowbasin Resort is a popular stopover for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a large mountain resort with fantastic skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. It’s also a great place to hike or mountain bike in the summer. The view from the top of the resort is breathtaking, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Antelope Island State Park

One of the most unique stops to make on your road trip to Woods Cross is Antelope Island State Park. The park is located on an island in the Great Salt Lake, and it’s teeming with wildlife such as bison, pronghorns, and mule deer. There are several hiking trails, a beach area, and a marina for boating. It’s a beautiful place to visit, and the views of the surrounding mountains and the lake are stunning.

Salt Lake City

The last stop on the road trip is Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah. A city known for its rich cultural history and natural beauty. Salt Lake City is home to several museums, including the Utah Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum of Utah. The city is also surrounded by stunning landscapes, such as the Wasatch Mountains and Great Salt Lake. There are plenty of outdoor activities and world-class dining options to explore.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Alamogordo, New Mexico to Woods Cross, Utah is a journey that can be tailored to your tastes and interests. Some people may prefer to spend more time in the larger cities, while others may prefer to explore the natural wonders. Nevertheless, this itinerary above provides a list of the best stops to make along the way and provides an overview of the unique culture and history of the Southwest. So pack your bags, get behind the wheel, and explore the beauty and diversity of the American Southwest!