See The Sites!
Interested in History?
The Organ Mountains are overflowing with it! Featuring all of the following:
Desert Peaks National Monument, Kilbourne Hole National Historic Landmark, Billy the Kid’s Outlaw Rock, Geronimo’s Cave, 243 known Petroglyph and Archaeological Sites, an estimated 5000+ total archaeological sites, Apollo Mission Astronaut Training Sites, Historic WWII Aerial Targets, Fort Mason and Historic Ranch House Ruins, AND the original US/Mexico border from Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo.
Looking for outdoor recreation?
The Organ Mountains are also home to a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping and petroglyph exploration.
Mesilla has remained quite the same sinces its days as a major stop for those traveling between San Antonio and San Diego 150 years ago, allowing visitors to see what an 1800’s border town looked like. Western Legend Billy the Kid once stood trial for murder in a Mesilla courtroom, and the Mesilla Plaza was once a major stop for the Butterfield Stagecoach. Mesilla was originally a part of Mexico, but the village became part of the Unites States with the signing of the Gadsden Purchase in 1854. Mesilla is anchored by the Basilica of San Albino. The church, originally built of adobe in 1855, still offers masses today, both in English and Spanish. Outside the church is a memorial to parishioners who died in combat.
Today, Mesilla features a variety of contemporary boutiques, unique stores, galleries, wineries, and specialty restaurants serving traditional Mexican cuisine, New Mexican fine dining and American fare. Consider trying some real local cuisine at the famous Double Eagle or La Posta restaurants.
Just an hour drive away!
The Monument protects the world’s largest gypsum dune-field, and the unique plants and animals that survive in this other-worldly place. Between White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base, the intriguing pure white dunes provide incredible recreation opportunities; visitors can picnic, “white sand surf” or just stroll through a portion of the 275 square-mile national monument. The monument also offers tours and activities such as the Sunset Stroll Nature Walk, full moon night programs, special events, and tours of Lake Lucero. For more information, videos, and directions, visit https://www.lascrucescvb.org/explore/white-sands-national-monument/
Dove Canyon 