New Mexico: Four Corners and Frybread

Four Corners Monument

I didn't explore much of New Mexico beyond what was close to Four Corners. We were on a massive roadtrip from California to Wyoming and back via a giant loop. We started going up through Nevada and Idaho and came back down the border of Utah and Colorado, stopping Four Corners and heading home through Arizona. Then we stopped at Four Corners and while we were there we picked up some Native American Frybread.

Frybread

Frybread has its roots in the forced relocation of Native American tribes by the U.S. government in the 19th century, particularly during the Navajo Long Walk. As tribes were moved to reservations, they were provided with rations such as flour, salt, and lard, which were often used to make frybread due to the scarcity of traditional ingredients. Frybread is traditionally cooked outdoors over an open flame or in a cast-iron skillet. The dough is stretched or flattened by hand before frying, resulting in a round, slightly crispy bread with a soft, fluffy interior. It can be served plain or topped with various toppings, such as honey, powdered sugar, cinnamon, beans, ground beef, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa, depending on personal preference and regional variations.

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If you want to visit New Mexico, here's a list of possible things to see and do:

1. Santa Fe: Explore the charming and historic city of Santa Fe, known for its adobe architecture, art galleries, and vibrant cultural scene. Don't miss the historic Plaza, the Palace of the Governors, and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.

2. Taos Pueblo: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Taos Pueblo, one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. Explore the adobe structures, learn about Native American culture and history, and shop for traditional crafts.

3. Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Descend into the depths of Carlsbad Caverns to discover a stunning underground world of limestone caves, stalactites, and stalagmites. Take a guided tour or hike the natural entrance trail for an unforgettable experience.

4. White Sands National Park: Marvel at the otherworldly landscape of White Sands, where miles of gypsum sand dunes create a surreal and stunning backdrop. Explore the dunes on foot, sled down the sandy slopes, or stargaze under the dark night skies.

5. Bandelier National Monument: Step back in time at Bandelier National Monument, home to ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and scenic hiking trails. Explore the Main Loop Trail and climb ladders to explore the cliffside ruins.

6. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: Experience the world's largest hot air balloon festival held annually in Albuquerque. Watch as hundreds of colorful balloons take to the sky against the backdrop of the Sandia Mountains.

7. Chaco Culture National Historical Park: Discover the ancient ruins of Chaco Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the center of Ancestral Puebloan culture. Explore the Great Houses, kivas, and petroglyphs that dot the landscape.

8. Turquoise Trail: Drive the scenic Turquoise Trail between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, passing through historic mining towns, artist communities, and stunning natural scenery. Stop at Madrid, Cerrillos, and other charming villages along the way.

9. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument: Trek into the wilderness of the Gila National Forest to explore the well-preserved cliff dwellings of the Mogollon people. Hike the trails, camp under the stars, and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the landscape.

10. New Mexico Museum of Space History: Learn about the history of space exploration at the New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo. Explore exhibits on rockets, satellites, and the Space Race, and visit the nearby International Space Hall of Fame.

If you want more suggestions on what to do in New Mexico, I suggest you check out their tourism website.