White Sands National Monument is in the northern Chihuahuan Desert in the U.S. state of New Mexico. It's known for its dramatic landscape of rare white gypsum sand dunes. Trails through the dunes include the raised Interdune Boardwalk and the Dune Life Nature Trail, dotted with interpretive exhibits on wildlife and other features.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Festival, a vibrant and exhilarating event held annually in New Mexico, promises an unforgettable experience for travel enthusiasts. This renowned festival showcases a breathtaking display of colorful hot air balloons filling the sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. From witnessing the awe-inspiring mass ascensions to participating in thrilling balloon rides, attendees can immerse themselves in the magic of this unique festival. Additionally, exploring the vibrant local culture, indulging in delicious traditional cuisine, and browsing through the bustling artisan markets are just a few of the many activities that await visitors at this extraordinary event.

A founder of the Wilderness Society and granddaddy of American conservation, Aldo Leopold once worked for the U.S. Forest Service in the high, wild Mogollon Mountains of New Mexico. It was here that he dreamed up the idea of legal “wilderness.” In a 1921 article for the Journal of Forestry, Leopold declared that wilderness should be "a continuous stretch of country preserved in its natural state, open to lawful hunting and fishing, big enough to absorb a two weeks’ pack trip, and kept devoid of roads, artificial trails, cottages, or other works of man."