Escape the ordinary and treat yourself to a southwest New Mexico staycation at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch! This hidden gem in the Gila National Forest is characterized by its extraordinary wildlife, rocky terrain, and unique water crossings. Head down south to Winston, NM, leave behind the crowds, and discover the wonder of the towering canyons in the best New Mexico vacation spot.
For the best things to do in southwest New Mexico, request a customized itinerary! We’ll create a special itinerary for you and your family to enjoy the best of southwest New Mexico. Complete our online form, and we’ll deliver a carefully crafted itinerary right to your inbox, for free.
Three Remarkable Activities for Your Southwest New Mexico Staycation
Horseback Riding through the Gila National Forest
With 3.3 million acres of forested hills, majestic mountains, and wondrous canyons with crystal clear streams to explore, the Gila National Forest is best explored by horseback. Our southwest New Mexico dude ranch is nestled in the Gila National Forest and provides guests with expertly trained horses for a one-of-a-kind adventure through The Land of Enchantment.
Learn About Native American Culture
Thousands of years ago, the area now considered southwest New Mexico was home to the Mimbres Culture. The Mimbres made their homes along stretches of the Mimbres and Gila Rivers between 200-1150 AD. Here, they farmed, hunted and gathered, built their villages, and crafted their iconic black-on-white pottery. This unique pottery was often decorated with designs of insects, animals, birds, and geometric designs. Similarly, some of the cliff dwellings in the area feature protected Mimbres pictographs of the area’s natural wonders. When you visit Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch, you will be able to take a step back in time and explore several archeological sites of the Mimbres people and view their artwork first-hand!
Observe the Wildlife
Spread throughout the vast national forest are hundreds of species of wildlife, birds, butterflies, and fish. From herds of grazing elk to western swallowtail butterflies to the special Gila and Apache trout native only to this area, no matter where you turn, you’ll see incredible life forms. With so many distinct species scattered throughout, outdoor activities like wildlife watching, birding, and fishing are great ways to enjoy the wonders of the Gila National Forest.
The Best Dude Ranch for Your Staycation
Whether you’re taking a road trip from Santa Fe, through Route 66, or traveling from anywhere else in the United States, Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch is the best place for a staycation in southwest New Mexico. Our intimate and welcoming dude ranch is located in the heart of the Gila National Forest, so you can disconnect and surround yourself with nothing but nature. During your stay, you will feel right at home in our well-appointed, comfortable, western-themed cabins. Plus, our amazing Chef Fred will prepare all your meals each day of your stay. Whether you’re traveling solo or with the whole family, a whole week or a long weekend in New Mexico is an adventure you’ll never forget.
Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch is waiting, are you ready?
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