New Mexico

On the Road in Southern New Mexico: Rugged Beauty and the Final Frontier

Program No. 22614RJ
Southern New Mexico is known for its natural beauty and unique role in the history of space exploration. Explore both on this journey to Carlsbad Caverns, the Very Large Array and more!

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At a Glance

On this unique learning adventure, discover two wildly different sides of Southern New Mexico: the high-tech, spacefaring Southern New Mexico, with its gaze fixed on the Final Frontier and the primal, stunningly beautiful Southern New Mexico with a natural history that stretches back in time for eons. Journey across the state to survey its spacefaring history at Roswell, state-of-the-art research facilities and the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Then, explore the spectacular Carlsbad Caverns and witness Southern New Mexico’s diverse wildlife and pristine landscapes. This is your chance to learn why the “Land of Enchantment” is no exaggeration.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles over uneven, sometimes slippery terrain. Elevations of 3,000-5,500 feet.

What You'll Learn

  • Descend into the stunning Carlsbad Caverns, a vast underground network of intriguing caves and enormous chambers.
  • Learn about the wonders of space at the UFO Museum in Roswell, the New Mexico Museum of Space History and the Very Large Array, a cutting-edge radio-telescope facility.
  • Explore the mystical beauty and alluring dunes of White Sands National Park with a local expert.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Matthew Mitchell
Matthew Mitchell is a native New Mexican who has nurtured an interest in wildlife and wild places his entire life. He has a degree in biology and has pursued the art of falconry for 48 years. He is involved in many environmental efforts in the middle Rio Grande valley and currently serves on the board of the Friends of the Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Matthew Mitchell
Matthew Mitchell View biography
Matthew Mitchell is a native New Mexican who has nurtured an interest in wildlife and wild places his entire life. He has a degree in biology and has pursued the art of falconry for 48 years. He is involved in many environmental efforts in the middle Rio Grande valley and currently serves on the board of the Friends of the Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
Profile Image of Vannetta Perry
Vannetta Perry View biography
Dr. Vannetta Perry is a retired educator and lifelong resident of New Mexico who is deeply rooted in the southwest. Her family homesteaded and ranched in Southwestern New Mexico and farmed in West Texas. As an educator, Dr. Perry worked in the university setting, teaching biology and directing science outreach programs. Her love for travel was sparked when she led research studies in developing countries. Since retiring, Dr. Perry has continued to share her love of travel and education as a travel director and leader.
Profile Image of Colleen Patrick
Colleen Patrick View biography
A native of Colorado and a relative newcomer to New Mexico, Colleen Patrick has spent a lifetime visiting and learning about Pueblo culture, pottery and the movement of Native Americans and Spaniards throughout New Mexico. Colleen has been in the travel business since 2006, but has been a traveler since her childhood. She learned to appreciate new cultures and new places as a child and has loved sharing new places and cultures with guests for many years.
Profile Image of Natallia Fodemski
Natallia Fodemski View biography
Natallia Fodemski began her career as a group leader in 2009. She started a small business, and led private and group outings including hikes and adventures all over Colorado State, gradually adding other states. In 2019, she graduated from International Guide Academy in Denver with a Certificate of International Tour Director and Guide. She also has years of experience working as a program coordinator at the Center for Creative Leadership and at Colorado College Fine Art Museum.
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