Start your road trip with a scenic drive to Palo Duro Canyon State Park in Amarillo. It's the second-largest canyon in the US, known for its stunning red rock formations, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting. Make sure to check opening hours and trail conditions before arrival, as they vary by season.
Drive southwest to reach White Sands National Park, a stunning natural wonder with miles of white, gypsum sand dunes that shift and change continually with the breeze. Explore hiking trails, go sand sledding, or simply soak up the otherworldly landscape.
Begin your day learning about the mystery of UFOs at the Roswell UFO Museum and Research Center. Discover the history of the alleged 1947 UFO crash in Roswell, view exhibits, and hear eyewitness accounts.
Drive to Albuquerque, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Start your exploration of Albuquerque with a visit to Old Town, a charming historic district filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Take a guided tour, visit a museum, or simply wander and take in the scenery.
End your road trip with spectacular aerial views of the Sandia Mountains on the Sandia Peak Tramway. The longest aerial tram in the country takes you above deep canyons and verdant valleys, ending at the 10,378' Sandia Peak. Enjoy hiking trails, dining with stunning views, and photo opportunities.
For this road trip, a rental car is essential as there is no public transportation available to most of the locations. Expect to pay upwards of $200 for a mid-size car that fits your family and luggage. Gas prices average around $3 a gallon, so plan your budget accordingly.
If you have more time, consider adding a stop at Carlsbad Caverns National Park or Taos Pueblo in New Mexico. If you have less time, focus on exploring one or two locations in more detail instead of rushing through them all. Be mindful of the weather conditions while planning your trip as some roads and trails might be closed due to heavy snow or rain.
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the nearest airport to the city center, located only 4 miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque. Major airlines such as American, Delta, and Southwest offer nonstop flights to ABQ from several US cities. From there, rent a car at the airport to start your road trip.