More of New Mexico

February 2016 found us still in New Mexico. Ford finally decided to replace the transmission in our car.  We were still on the hook for the rental car, however. With the extra week in New Mexico, we visited more interesting spots. 

Our next stop was the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site.  The Three Rivers site is one of the few locations in the Southwest set aside solely because of its rock art. It is also one of the few sites that gives visitors such direct access to petroglyphs. The number and concentration of glyphs make it one of the largest and most interesting sites in the desert southwest.  More than 21,000 glyphs of birds, humans, animals, fish, insects and plants, as well as numerous geometric and abstract designs are scattered over 50 acres of New Mexico's northern Chihuahuan Desert. Most of the petroglyphs decorate a long, basalt ridge rising from the upper Tularosa Basin at the base of the Sacramento Mountains.

It was a moderate climb on a beautiful day. Way off the beaten track, but worth the drive.

Next stop, The Gila Cliff Dwellings in Catron County, New Mexico. We had no idea at the time that access to climb into the dwellings was really unusual.  A brief hike along a stream

and then this:

We climbed the ladders and walked in the steps of the Mogollon indians who lived, worked, crafted art, and raised their families.  They only occupied the dwellings for about 20 years and then moved on and so did we.

Our last stop in New Mexico was in the small town of Mesilla right next to Las Cruces. The town was like being in a town in Mexico. Lovely main square, neat shops and real Mexican Food.  La Posta restaurant served real pozole which was the first time I had it since being in Mexico. If you don't know, Pozole, it is the savory and hearty, rather soupy stew made from dried large white corn kernels, pork, chile peppers and seasonings then simmered for hours. Deliciouso!

Finally on to Arizona.