We left White Sands NP at about 4200 feet of altitude, headed back through Alamogordo, driving east. We climbed up Highway 82, the road running from Alamogordo into Texas. At about 6500 feet, there was a scenic overlook that drew us to stop, along with many other people. It was definitely worth it, as the view was amazing. The views looking down to the valley below or looking at the rock cliffs surrounding us competed for our attention and photos.

Obviously we were quite enchanted with the area. After gray sand dunes, flat desert landscapes at sunset, and white sands, the change of terrain held our attention. Reluctantly we climbed back into the van to continue on up the road. At almost 9000 feet in the Sacramento Mountains and surrounded by the Lincoln National Forest we found the little village of Cloudcroft. It is the highest town in New Mexico and has a population of about 700 people, not counting skiers in the winter. It’s a very quaint town, aimed at mountain and forest activities. There was a shopping/tourist area, fittingly located on Burro Avenue, containing many interesting little shops selling art, crafts, food, all the typical things for such an area. We walked the area and enjoyed looking at everything. Reluctantly we pushed on into Texas.

Next: Racing home, lots of highway rest areas and one more state park