Trust us on this, okay? Put Red River, New Mexico on your bucket list right now. Sure, there might not be a big buzz about the city and what it has to offer, and you want your proverbial wish list to have sparkle, sparkle, power, and pizzazz. Red River might not jump off a page, but once you get a chance to learn a little about this gem in the southwestern United States, you’ll be singing a different tune.
A “wish list” is something that is often associated with getting older, but in recent years, it has become part of how people describe the things they really want to see and experience at some point in their lives. Therein lies the reason people seek excitement and a little (or a lot) of the exotic. Why would Red River, New Mexico find a place on that kind of list?
Well, for starters, chances are you’ve never had a chance to explore the world beyond a city bike path. It has some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the entire country, as well as some of the most pristine fishing areas around. You have the opportunity to explore the Carson National Forest and, best of all, you are in the Rocky Mountains! Yes, you might think that sandy beaches and tropical climate are where they are, but isn’t it? Average summer temperatures in Red River are in the mid-70s, making their ski and summer area the ideal location. Again, this is during the summer.
You could argue, “Well, I like my travels to have variety and excursions that take me beyond my original destination. In no way can Red River, New Mexico compete with other places.” Incorrect. It’s also about an hour’s drive from Taos and Angel Fire (also in New Mexico), two of the most popular ski resort destinations on the planet. Nor can you pass up the opportunity to experience the latest in spa chic by visiting the geothermal hot springs at Ojo Caliente.
It sounds like you’re getting close to the idea of Red River having a spot on your bucket list, but you’re not 100% ready yet, are you? Well, consider this: the extravagant bucket list trip to a mundane place seems to go hand in hand with actually living it and leaving nothing on the table. That may be good for some people, but maybe you’re looking for something a little more low-key and peaceful. The city’s population is only a few hundred people (around 500 at the end of 2016), so there is no rush of people. There is a true sense of community, exemplified by the Red River Community House, the city’s “cool” place for all kinds of activities since the 1940s. Don’t forget the annual Bluegrass and Old Time Music Festival, Parade, and 4th July and the Art and Wine Festival that takes place on Father’s Day weekend. Red River is also open to new experiences, like the first annual Bacon & Brews, which celebrates the beginning of summer and all things Red River.
Red River, New Mexico may not be like some of the eternally beautiful towns and cities around the world, but it does have that something special that is hard to describe. Still, it’s a great place to visit, and bucket list or not, you’ll do yourself a favor by coming.