We went for a walk at the Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park a couple of weeks ago. It is New Mexico's 34th state park and has just observed its first anniversary. Living in the Chihuahuan Desert as we do, it's a real treat for us to be able to wander through such a watery environment.
The bosque (pronunciation is here), or riverside forest, is just minutes from the center of Las Cruces, but you might think you are miles and miles away, enjoying the peace, looking up at the mountains, and seeing signs of the bird and mammal residents all around you. I will be posting some more photos of those signs over the next couple of days.
Gateway to the visitor's center, opening out onto a lovely patio and gardens
A trail through one of the many different natural habitats. That's Picacho Peak in the distance, a sight we see at home from a different angle
An explanation of the irrigation and drain system
Part of the Picacho Drain (see the sign in the photo above this one), home to many water and land species
