S.Texas, NM and AZ
 

Hi all,
I'm already planning a trip to explore South Texas, New Mexico and Arizona in March.

I like to keep away from interstate roads and use mostly backroads.

I was thinking about visiting Big Bend N.P. and Grand Canyon N.P., other than that, I'm open to suggestions and tips.

Because of the weather at that time of year, I don't think I'll be camping.

I have 15 days and my base camp will be in Houston, Tx., so I could use two different routes for going and coming back.

Thanks!

When you leave Big Bend Park, take the road to Presido, Texas. Don't know if the flowers will be blooming but it's one of the prettiest routes in the state when the wildflowers are in bloom.
On your way to the Grand Canyon, take us 70 in Lordburg, NM and then get on us 191, this is called the Colorado Trail and is a great motorcycle ride. You'll end up in Alpine, AZ from there you can take highway 180 and it will lead you to Interstate 40 which is the route to the Grand Canyon. This is pretty bleak landscape but a direct route. If you want to get more advertous in Arizona let me know and I'll give you some alternative routes to the Grand Canyon.

Tks!

I would really appreciate those alternate routes to the Grand Canyon!!!

My GS will thank you too!

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"Second place is the first looser"

If you'll send me your email address I'll send you a map. billy@illygreerhome.com

THE way to visit the Grand Canyon is to go to the North Rim instead of the south, like the rest of the 5,234,341,123 tourists per year. The North Rim gets something like 1/12th the visitors, is more scenic (IMHO), and definately has friendlier weather. You're also more likely to find accomodations right there in the park w/out reservation 2 years in advance.

I camped there for 2 weeks in Oct 2000, and did a rim-to-rim and back backpack trek. I could not WAIT to leave the south rim, it was so crowded with tourists.

Suggestions for New Mexico are the "Jemez & Caldera Loop" (rt 4 and 501(?) around Los Alamos from Santa Fe, and the "Enchanted Loop" around Taos to Eagles Nest and back.

Don't miss Chaco Culture NP, and El Morro NP while there.

Brian