Socorro

Hike along the vast stretches of mountains and woodland, learn about the region’s extraterrestrial history and enjoy the rocky terrain of this desert city.

Socorro is a cultural city with a fascinating colonial and Native American past. Peruse intriguing gold and silver from the region in the town’s museum and learn about the UFO incident that took place in the area during the 1960s.

Hike the many trails that meander through the Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge a little to the south of the town. Enjoy the scenic views of rolling hills and mountains as you look for graceful birds of prey, including hawks, vultures and kestrels.

In the heart of Socorro you’ll find plenty of cultural and historic attractions. Visit the San Miguel de Socorro church, which was built in the 1800s. See the portion of adobe wall from the initial construction in the early 17th century.

Practice your swing at the New Mexico Tech Golf Course in the northwestern section of the town. The course’s 18 holes are spread across rolling green hills and offer spectacular views of the mountains on the horizon.

Visit the adjacent New Mexico Tech Mineral Museum to learn about the fascinating terrain of the region. Marvel at the gold, silver and other gems found locally. Learn about mining and its place in the development of New Mexico.

Look for the mural south of downtown Socorro that depicts the alleged UFO incident that took place in Socorro. The event, during which a policeman maintains he saw a spaceship and extraterrestrial entities in 1964, is considered one of the best-documented sightings in history.

The colonial history of Socorro dates back to the end of the 16th century when Spanish settlers first arrived in the region following an arduous voyage through the Jornada del Muerto desert. When the Teypana Indians came to their rescue with food and water, the Spanish used their own word for “help” to name the town.

Socorro is in the Rio Grande Valley in central New Mexico. Arrive at Albuquerque International Airport and travel south for 75 miles (120 kilometers) to get here. Visit nearby towns such as Magdalena, Alamo and Bosquecito.

Expect hot afternoons from June through August with cooler nights in this arid terrain. Flurries of snow fall in December, when temperatures dip below freezing in the evening.