White Sands National Monument
Day 9 was a mix of a driving day and sight seeing day. By this point in my trip, I had planned much shorter drive days so I could enjoy my trip! I left Carlsbad around 10 in the morning, and headed North on 285 to Artesia, NM then headed West on 82 towards White Sands National Monument. This was a gorgeous drive through some small towns and I even drove through Lincoln National Forest, which was beautiful and I was honestly just excited to see trees.
Around 2:00, I finally arrived to White Sands National Monument. This was SUCH a poor decision on my part, because it was HOT, y’all. I went to the visitor’s center and then drove through the park. I got out a few times to take some photographs, but after about two hours, I was out of water and ready to get to my Airbnb for the night.
I do want to suggest to go either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. I wanted to rent a sled, but it was SO HOT, I couldn’t justify the $10 cost to rent one. Also, have you ever climbed up a giant sand dune in the middle of summer…talk about difficult!
After I left White Sands National Monument, I headed to my Airbnb in the historic Mesilla district, which is right outside of Las Cruces. I booked an adorable casita for the night, and WOW was it an amazing place to stay! I was able to cook dinner in an actual kitchen, do my laundry, and watch Netflix while chilling on a leather couch!
I would really like to revisit Mesilla, NM one day. It is a very charming historic district with a lot of sights to see. I spent the afternoon doing chores and reorganizing my car, so I did not get to walk around and see the town. I would highly suggest visiting this town if you are the area!
Until next time, peace.
See Van Go 