While El Paso, TX is one of the United States’ most well-known desert cities, no two desert towns are the same, and you might find yourself wanting to explore somewhere a bit different! Leave behind the historic charm for a weekend to indulge in a one-of-a-kind experience at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch! Just a short road trip away, we’re sure that your El Paso to the Gila National Forest getaway will be one for the books. To indulge in the best horseback riding adventure Southwest New Mexico has to offer, request a customized copy of our free New Mexico Itinerary so you can make the most of every moment!
What Is the Travel Time from El Paso to the Gila National Forest
Depending on the traffic, it typically takes approximately four hours to get from El Paso to the Gila National Forest. The quickest route is to take Interstate 25 North until you reach New Mexico Highway 52 North. The driving distance from El Paso, Texas, to Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch, is about 200 miles, making it ideal for a short road trip! The best part? The drive is dotted with some of our favorite parks! Stop for a hike or a photo-op to get in the perfect mindset for your vacation!
The Best Places to See on Your Road Trip from El Paso to the Gila National Forest
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park
Nestled along the Rio Grande River banks and one-and-a-half miles from historic Mesilla, you’ll find the Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park. The park consists of 945 acres of wetland and the Chihuahuan Desert, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the local wildlife.
White Sands National Park
One of the main reasons our region has been dubbed “The Land of Enchantment” is White Sands National Park. The snow-like dunes, located along Route 70 in southern New Mexico, sweep across 275 miles of the Tularosa Basin, producing an ethereal sight! Mountain bike routes, dune buggy trips, and even “sledding” down the sugar-like slopes make it the ideal stop for adventure seekers. This fascinating destination, one of our country’s newest national parks, is one you won’t want to miss.
Chloride, New Mexico
Chloride was discovered by chance in the late 1870s. Harry Pye, a mule skinner for the US Army, was moving freight through the area when he came across some “float” in a creek bed that he thought might be silver ore. He had the rocks tested and discovered that they were high in silver chloride. Pye kept his discovery a secret until the end of his Army freighting contract in 1879. He returned to Chloride Canyon with a couple of partners, erected a hut, and made a claim to the land, marking the start of Chloride’s history. Now, this is one of the many famed ghost towns in the US!
Treat Yourself to a Unique Getaway at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch
It’s no secret that Southwest New Mexico is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination, but every great vacation starts with the perfect place to stay (and the Gila National Forest may just be New Mexico’s best-kept secret)! Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch offers a full vacation package: Our main focus is taking you horseback riding to see one of the most beautiful places in the world: From deep canyons with 500ft cliffs and crystal clear stream running through them to high viewpoints overlooking the 3.3-million-acre Gila National Forest, from Ponderosa forests to open meadows you will see why New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment! During your stay, explore the history of the area by visiting remains of pit houses and cliff dwellings dating back to the Mimbres people who lived here from 200-1150AD. At the end of an exciting day, our cozy cabin retreats are suited to take care of all your needs. Our accommodations provide all the necessary comforts while allowing you to disconnect from the demands of everyday tasks. Enjoy three delicious home-cooked meals a day prepared for you! Whether you’re planning a relaxing escape for a party of two or a memorable family reunion, you’ll find an idyllic adventure for your crew in The Land of Enchantment.
If you’re ready for the trip of a lifetime? Check our availability and book your stay with us today. We can’t wait for you to experience the best of Southwest New Mexico.