If you find yourself in the Lemitar, New Mexico area, you’re in a great spot for a mix of outdoor adventure, local culture, and scenic drives. Lemitar itself is a quiet, welcoming community, and just a short drive away but it has a variety of experiences to fit many interests. My husband and I enjoyed getting peppers roasted at the Bustamante Farms Market. The season runs from late summer to fall. They had a big variety of fresh produce, meats, mixes and meats – all locally produced. I picked up some Indian Fry Bread, pinto beans and some delightful fresh bell peppers.

There are beautiful desert landscapes along Quebradas Backcountry Byway, a scenic byway perfect for a relaxed drive through rugged terrain and striking vistas. You can probably do it with an SUV but I’d really recommend a 4 WD. Same if you go for a hike in San Lorenzo Canyon. They both offer opportunities to enjoy the striking landscape of the high desert. Desert trips require some basic preparation. Get gas before beginning a drive and bring snacks and water. Tripadvisor

Just a short trip into Socorro brings more cultural and historical options. The New Mexico Bureau of Geology Mineral Museum is a short but interesting stop for science lovers and Socorro Historic Plaza give a great taste of local history. Burrito Time is popular among the locals. The historic plaza is shaded and is a great place to enjoy lunch.

If you’re up for something truly remarkable, the iconic radio telescopes at the NRAO Very Large Array in Magdalena are an unforgettable experience. Tripadvisor

For wildlife watching or seasonal viewing, events like the Festival of the Cranes at the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge celebrate migratory bird activity nearby. Whether you’re into scenic drives, nature hikes, history, or quirky roadside wonders, this part of New Mexico offers a calm but richly rewarding travel experience.

Service dog handlers should take note. Although service dogs are allowed inside the visitor center, the trails may not be safe for them. Brambles, stickers, and cactus needles can get stuck in their paws and coats. After being seeing it in person, I agree with the staff somewhat. There are grassy areas on the driving trail where I let him out on a leash. I checked his paws often and made sure water was available. One note though. It’s pack in, pack out. The only trashcans we saw were at the visitor center.

Lemitar, New Mexico is about an hour south of Albuquerque on I-25. We’re planning a return trip. Have you ever been? What activities do you suggest?

Bustamante Farms Market, Lemitar, New Mexico. A man takes photos of peppers roasting
Peppers hanging to dry outdoors at Bustamante Farms in New Mexico.
Bustamante Farms mixes are on a stand. Produce lines the back wall. The sign says "Thanks! for supporting your local farmer"
Historic Marker: Sabino Y Lemitar
Garden at the Bosque Del Apache National WIldlife Refuge Visitor Center
Blue sky with fluffy clouds and mountains in the distance. Tall grasses are in the foreground. Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge
Woman and her yellow lab service dog inside the visitor center at Bosque Del Apache Wildlife Refuge. She is wearing a mask and holds a green and white bag.