Mother Nature says, "We're closed - come back later."
Written: Jun 18 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Great climate, reasonable lodging, good food, neat surroundings
Cons: So dry the public was denied access to forest and public lands
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| rongould's Full Review: New Mexico |
I just returned from a vacation with my family to northern New Mexico. We stayed in Red River, about 35 miles north of Taos by road, probably less if you could fly between them. The temperature was 37 - 38 degrees (F) at night and 72 - 74 for highs. We stayed at the Best Western, which is relatively new and very well maintained. It is located on the bank of the river that flows through town. We sat on the small deck and watched people fly fishing and fed the ducks that periodically came begging. The ducks got to the point of following my daughter when she left the room, hoping she would give them a handout.
Overall, our stay was pleasant except that we couldn't walk in the woods, drive a Jeep offroad, ride horseback in the woods, or do anything on public lands - not even walk beside the road except in town. The area is so dry that even kicking a couple of rocks together could cause a spark, according to the Deputy who politely asked us to get back in the car and move along when we stopped to take pictures of a small waterfall beside the road. Major bummer! I understand the fears after the fire that burned so many acres and caused so much damage at Los Alamos, but that part of the trip was very disappointing. The couple who manage the Best Western said that if a fire started, Red River might have ten to fifteen minutes warning and you would just have to leave with whatever you had at hand. You probably wouldn't even have time to fetch things from your lodging and escape with your life. Scary and dangerous indeed.
If you plan to visit any of New Mexico or Colorado during the summer of 2000, call ahead and ask about recreational conditions. If it is as dry as Red River, Taos, Angel Fire and Eagle Nest, you might want to make other plans. We had called and asked everything except about whether the public lands were closed - the one question we really should have asked. Don't make our mistake.
If the area receives some much-needed rainfall and everything greens back up so there is not as much danger, I'll go back with no hesitation. I love the climate and the natural beauty.
If you do decide to visit Red River, lodging at the Best Western is reasonable, but food in town is a bit higher than expected. There are several good restaurants, fast food places and a grocery store. You can find most foods - pizza to steaks served throughout town. Gas is about the same price as anywhere else we saw.
One thing you may not be prepared for is the elevation. Red River is about 8600 feet above sea level and you may find yourself out of breath frequently. We did and learned to take a slow pace so we could talk without gasping.
Stop at the Chamber of Commerce to get an quick overview of events. They also have menus from most of the local restaurants so you can see what they offer and their prices.
Overall, weather and conditions permitting, I'd rate it a good destination for a vacation. With things as dry as they were, I'd make it a stop on my journey to somewhere else.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
rongould
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Member: Ron Gould
Location: Richmond, TX
Reviews written: 60
Trusted by: 82 members
About Me:
Author working on first novels, SCUBA diver, Certified software developer, stained glass artist, musician, father
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