New Mexico - Land of Enchantment

We have finally left the Lone Star State. Texas is behind us as we cross the State line into New Mexico. "Land of Enchantment" - according to all the road signs as we cross the line. Actually it's a well deserved description. Brenda and I love the isolation, subtle colours and vastness of the deserts. We also like the imposing and dramatic splendour of the mountains. New Mexico is one of the few US States that has that great balance between desert and mountain terrains - truly enchanting!

Our home for four nights is at the Santa Rosa Lake State Park, located about 10 miles north of the town. It is beautiful, isolated and very peaceful.

Brenda reclining in the covered picnic table facilities providing for every campsite

Of course if you are cunning and park in the right spot - the awning can be extended to increase the area of shade

Our last four stops, as we crossed Texas, have been in cities - Amarillo, Wichita Falls, Waco and Austin. So the beauty, isolation and quiet of our campsite here is a very welcome change.

From our campsite we have a view over Santa Rosa Lake towards a backdrop dominated by huge mesas - the eroding rock formations so characteristic of the Colorado Plateau. We are not truly up on the Colorado Plateau yet - we have about another 100 miles to go and at least another 2000 feet to climb.

A panoramic view of Santa Rosa Lake from the State Park we are camped in

We have hiked some of the trails around the lake. It is amazing how many small and pretty coloured flowers bloom in the desert here. Lots of cactus too. And rocks split into slate like formations from weather erosion.

Split rock forms the banks of the Lake

Brenda crossing the rocks to reach the Lake edge

We have also scooted down the hill into town. There is not much to the town of Santa Rosa. Some small stores, gas stations and a couple of diners. We did enjoy a Chicken Fajita Omelette in one of the diners. It was big enough to share between the two of us.

We have one more day to relax at the State Park here, and then we head off to our next stop in Santa Fe. We are both looking forward to revisiting this great place. Santa Fe is home to one of the country's largest art markets. When we were last there in 2010 we only had a day and a bit to explore. This time we are staying for 4 days. With over 300 art galleries and dealers to view - it still won't be enough time. We picked up some nice art last time we were here and I am sure we will be adding to the collection!