COUNTY News:In Northern New Mexico, autumn is about more than just crisp, cool air; it’s also the time of year when visitors and locals alike flock to Los Alamos to catch site of the area’s stunning and majestic fall colors.
The fall colors are at their most vibrant during the first two weeks of October, which coincides perfectly with one of New Mexico’s most iconic events—the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. For those looking to expand their vacation beyond hot air balloons, following morning mass ascensions, there’s a different kind of high altitude experience, just an easy 90-minute drive up the I-25, in Los Alamos.
The 66-mile Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway takes you the “back way” to Los Alamos, from San Ysidro Pueblo along Highway 550 through the hot springs village of Jemez Springs, Jemez Pueblo, and past the Valles Caldera before turning onto Highway 501 to Los Alamos, providing optimum leaf peeping and opportunities to stop and enjoy along the way.
“Whether you’re already visiting New Mexico to experience Balloon Fiesta, or if you’re looking for a unique fall getaway, Los Alamos offers the perfect destination,” County Marketing Manager Kelly Stewart said. “The views in Los Alamos are second-to-none, as you have the incredible opportunity of being at 7,300 feet elevation with 360 degrees of breathtaking scenery and majestic fall colors.”
The adventures offered in Los Alamos during the fall stretch beyond just the scenic value. As the gateway to three National Park sites—Bandelier National Monument, Valles Caldera National Preserve, and Manhattan Project National Historical Park—Los Alamos is the place of unlimited adventure and the place where discoveries are made. While the National Park sites are full of discovery year-round, the fall offers a great opportunity to explore these sites while attending major events.
Sept. 30, the Valles Caldera will host the ninth annual “Jemez Mountains Elk Festival,” celebrating its designation as home to the second largest elk population with events, tours, demonstrations and activities to educate the public about elk and their role on the preserve. The exciting and educational event runs 2–6 p.m., and reservations are recommended with spots remaining on a first come, first served basis.
Visit vallescaldera.gov for more information.
Also Sept. 30, the Bandelier National Monument will host a special “Opera on the Rocks” event. The presentation will feature scenes from Mozart’s comic opera, The Abduction from the Seraglio, adapted to fit into a futuristic universe similar to that of Star Trek. The event takes place at the scenic amphitheater at Bandelier’s Juniper Campground, and the performance coincides with the celebration of National Public Lands Day.
For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.guildsofsfo.org/LA.
“Whatever your idea of adventure, you’ll find it in Los Alamos,” Stewart added. “We encourage all outdoor lovers to visit Los Alamos this autumn and celebrate the beauty of Northern New Mexico.”
For complete information about Los Alamos, including suggested itineraries and scenic fall drives, see visitlosalamos.org.