Special Statement on the June 7, lightning caused Silver Fire:
July 1st: Hwy 152 has reopened. Watch for debris on the road and also keep an eye out for emergency vehicles.
The Lake! Many Elephant Butte visitors come here for that sole reason and, for sure, the beaches and myriad water activities will fill your days with pure enjoyment. However, there are other attractions to explore like historical sites and the “New Frontier” of Spaceport America. Gain a greater appreciation for Elephant Butte’s natural splendor and diverse attractions by extending your visit to enjoy the following places.
Places to see include historic sites with scenic storefronts and shops, hot spring spas, churches, parks, murals, museums; mountain, lake and Rio Grande river vistas.
Visits to the “New Frontier” Spaceport America can only be made through arranged tours with Follow the Sun Tours. The excursion begins with an “Old West” journey along expansive and scenic desert highways and culminates with a comprehensive tour of the stunning Spaceport America. Plan for an impressive 3 hour experience.
Spend a day exploring the unique historic communities in the NW section of Sierra County. Places to explore include storefronts, churches, mines, living ghost towns and wide open rural western scenery.
New Mexico’s largest lake. Sites to visit include marinas, the beautiful Elephant Butte Dam and the Dam Site Recreation Area, explore the shoreline and visit coves, parks, mountain vistas; in September there is a Hot-air Balloon Regatta.
Visit the quaint and historic mountain communities of Hillsboro & Kingston nestled in the Gila National Forest. Historic buildings, art galleries, rural and stunning vistas abound including Emory Pass with Percha Creek running through. This is a prime birdwatching area.
Two Gorgeous State Parks at the foot of the Caballo Mountains. Offers gorgeous water scenes along the reservoir and Rio Grande river. Lots of Cottonwood trees. Small community with several RV parks.
The southwest section of Sierra County consists of fertile agricultural land along the Rio Grande. Further west is the ghost town of Lake Valley. There are some well preserved and restored buildings along with interesting ruins.
Take NM 51 east to Engle. You’ll travel through beautiful Ash Canyon, wide open desert lands and arrive at the “Old Frontier” the once very busy cattle town of Engle. Nearby is the “New Frontier” Spaceport America.