Nature Tourism

Trophy Black Bear

Nature Tourism is a growing trend and we have seen a surge in demand for nature orientated travel. Vermejo Park Ranch is the ideal destination for experiencing nature and all its splendor. Encompassing close to 600,000 acres Vermejo provides a nature experience equal to that of our national parks but without the crowds.  Vermejo is the largest contiguous deeded ranch in New Mexico, containing 588,000 acres (about three-quarters the size of Rhode Island). The ranch has elevations ranging from 6,400 feet to 12,960 feet covering six biogeographic life zones. 

Birding is one of our most popular activities with over 150 different species identified. Many of our birds are migratory and here for short periods during the year. Both Golden and Bald Eagles reside on the ranch as well as numerous species of raptor. A few other notable birds are the White-Tailed Ptarmigan and the Western Tanager . The largest bird on the ranch is the Merriam's Turkey which can be easily seen at any time of the year.  

Hiking our many different high mountain meadows and peaks is an activity available during the spring and summer. We can customize a hike to meet any desired level of difficulty. Some of our hikes encompass visits to an old ghost town, cowboy cemeteries, and adobe ruins.  Big Costilla peak is our most challenging hike with an ascent up to 12,800 feet where the wreckage of a WWII bomber can be seen.

Photo safaris are another popular activity for our guests with significant opportunity to photograph wildlife in its natural habitat. Black Bears are commonly seen around the lakes, Mule Deer number 1500-2000, Bison number around 1500 and our free range elk herd of 8000 plus animals can always be found. Vistas of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains are spectacular anytime of the year and our fall foliage is breathtaking.

Please contact our reservations department at (575)445-3097. We would be happy to customize a trip for you.

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