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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, and more!
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National ParksOn the RoadScience & TechnologyNature & Environment
Length
8 days
Rating (4.85)
Activity Level
Starts at
2,099
Program
At a Glance
Duration
8 days
Program Begins
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Program Concludes
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Meals
19 ( 7B, 5L, 7D )
Activity Level
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.
Best of all, you'll...
  • 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 and the New Mexico Museum of Space History.
  • Explore the mystical beauty and alluring dunes of White Sands National Park with a local expert.
View Full Itinerary
Profile Image
Richard Friedman
Richard Friedman is an archaeologist with decades of experience researching Chacoan culture, who has done extensive work using state-of-the-art technology for cultural and archeological resource documentation, management, and research. He has participated in projects with the National Park Service, the Navajo Nation, the Bureau of Land Management, NASA, the Solstice Project and the University of Colorado, and has co-authored several papers on Chacoan archaeology and the use of remote sensing technology.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of Laureen Lerch
Laureen Lerch
Laureen Lerch received her B.S. in tourism geography with a minor in anthropology and Indigenous studies. She moved to New Mexico with the AmeriCorps VISTA project to increase eco, cultural, and adventure tourism, now residing in Albuquerque. Laureen holds U.S. and Irish citizenship. She leads Road Scholar programs in New Mexico and her native Chicago, and has led groups since 2004 in the U.S., UK, Ireland, France, and Italy. She can often be found hiking the Sandia Mountains with her partner, son, and two dogs.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles over uneven, sometimes slippery terrain. Elevations of 3,000-5,500 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (9 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
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Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.

  • Peace of Mind

    We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

  • Assurance Plan

    Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

  • Want to Protect Your Investment?

    Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

  • Sustainable Travel

    We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.