Attractions and Places To See in Socorro County - Top 11

Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge spans over 230,000 acres where four major ecosystems—desert, grassland, shrub-steppe, and woodland—connect, creating fantastic biodiversity. Managed mostly for conservation and research, it supports species like pronghorn, mountain lions, and the endangered southwestern willow flycatcher, while hosting long-term ecological studies through the University of New Mexico. Most of the refuge is closed to recreation, but there are a few trails for hiking and wildlife viewing, though camping and picnicking aren’t permitted. The GET trail runs along its eastern border, allowing for a unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of some of the protected wildlife that call this area home.

The beautiful San Lorenzo Canyon Recreation Area, northwest of Socorro, is a fantastic spot, with sandstone cliffs, natural arches, and unique hoodoos, with several hiking trails, perfect for taking some memorable photos and exploring the slot canyons. Primitive camping is allowed throughout the area, with dispersed sites hidden away in quiet corners of the canyon. There are no facilities or water sources, so be prepared if you're planning to you pitch your tent under the stars here. This remote setting provides a peaceful atmosphere, breathtaking views, and a true off-the-grid experience.

Magdalena is a charming small village known as the “Trails End,” a nod to its historic role as a railhead for cattle drives and mining shipments in the late 1800s. Nestled near the Magdalena Mountains, it’s surrounded by picturesque high desert scenery and is a gateway to outdoor destinations like the Kelly ghost town, the Very Large Array, and the Magdalena Ridge Observatory. The town offers a feeling of Old West charm with a growing arts scene, hosting galleries, festivals, and stargazing events that draw visitors from all over the country.

Covering over 1.6 million acres across New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma, the Cibola National Forest is a diverse mix of mountains, high desert, and open grasslands—spread across four ranger districts and four national grasslands. Its landscapes range from piñon-juniper woodlands to spruce-fir forests, providing habitat for wildlife like elk, black bears, and pronghorn. With designated wilderness areas, scenic trails, and research sites like the Langmuir Laboratory and Magdalena Ridge Observatory, it’s a favorite for hikers and campers, with plenty of options to explore this vast beautiful area.

The North Baldy Trail winds along the high ridgeline between South and North Baldy Peaks, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Sandia and the Sierra Blanca ranges in the distance. The route is challenging, with over 2,600 feet of elevation gain with relatively rugged terrain, and is an ideal trek for experienced hikers ready to confront steep ascents and remote conditions. The trail connects to several others, including Copper Canyon and Hop Canyon, and is part of the Grand Enchantment Trail (GET) and is a beautiful yet challenging segment for long-distance hikers.

Tucked into the quieter northern stretch of the San Mateo Mountains, the Withington Wilderness covers nearly 19,000 acres of steep canyons, pine forests, and high ridgelines that rarely see visitors. The trails in this area are limited and often faint, and water sources can be scarce or seasonal, making this area best suited for experienced hikers with solid navigation skills. With a whole lot of silence, it’s the kind of place that rewards you if you come prepared—and don’t mind getting a little lost in the wild.

The beautiful and remote Apache Kid Wilderness stretches across more than 44,000 acres in the San Mateo Mountains, with breathtaking views and challenging trails that wind through steep canyons and lush, forested peaks. Named after a legendary Apache scout, this area is rich in history with plenty of wildlife, including elk, black bears, and the endangered Mexican spotted owl. With its lightly used trails, and limited human presence, it's a fantastic secluded sanctuary for any experienced backpacker.

A very steep climb indeed. Beautiful view at the top.