5 Things Only New Mexico Land Lovers Understand

Other states may get more name recognition. But New Mexico is home to some of the most stunning views in the country.  Check out this list of some little-known benefits of life in this southwestern state.

1. New Mexico land is some of the most underappreciated in the country.

It doesn’t have the same sexy name recognition as Texas or California. But New Mexico land includes some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the country. The stunning geography of this southwest jewel includes lush mountains and verdant valleys. Not to mention that New Mexico land includes ranches with a culture and history all their own.

The southwest terrain of New Mexico features a variety of plant life.  There are 8 distinct ecoregions in New Mexico. The state actually has the fourth highest floristic diversity in the entire country. In the mountains, piñon, juniper, and ponderosa pine are some of the most common species. Other plant communities include mesquite shrublands and savannas.

2. New Mexico is a land of all four seasons.

Most people think of New Mexico and imagine hot, dry deserts. As the home of part of the Great Rocky Mountains, the climate of this state is actually cool, with all four seasons.

People with a love of the outdoors will enjoy spending time outside. Fishing, hiking, and hunting are just a few common pastimes enjoyed here. Caving and watersports are also much-loved sports among those who live in New Mexico.

3. New Mexico is home to a surprising number of ranches.

It’s almost impossible to think of a time when farming and ranching weren’t part of New Mexico life. The Spanish explorer Coronado brought cattle to the area in 1540, but these were for food. At the end of the 16th century, permanent settlers brought cattle. This was the beginning of commercial livestock production in the New Mexico region. Farming has been important in New Mexico life for over 2500 years. Today, over 97% of the farms and ranches in New Mexico are family owned.

4. Fertile New Mexico land produces award winning wines.

In the early 1600s, sacramental wine was needed in the Southwest. Father Garcia de Zuniga and brother Antonio de Arteaga, planted grapes. Wine production peaked in the 1800s in the Rio Grande Valley. There were over 3100 acres of vineyards producing almost a million gallons each year.  By the mid-1900s, harsh winters and flooding caused production to decrease. In the late 20th century, production increased again to over 700,000 gallons each year. Some of the vineyard owners are direct descendants from the early Spanish settlers.

5. New Mexico is an ideal place to take the road less traveled.

Looking for a place to slow down, hop off the fast lane, and explore? New Mexico is for you. Backcountry exploration is a perfect New Mexico pastime, as it turns out that around 75% of the roads in New Mexico are unpaved.  Geographically speaking, it’s also the nation’s fifth largest state.

With benefits like these, it’s time to discover New Mexico today!