You anticipate breathtaking vistas when you visit national parks and even some state parks. However, unless you live in New Mexico, you don’t expect panoramic views from a humble urban green space.
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At first glance Overlook Park, which is hidden in a residential area in White Rock, seems pleasant but unremarkable. There are baseball, softball, soccer fields…
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…A playground, a dog park – desirable amenities for sure, but nothing earthshattering.
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That is until you follow the path to Overlook Point…
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Wow!
Flickr/Mark Kaletka
These sweeping views stretch for miles.
Tripadvisor/Sarai G White Rock Canyon is below, with the curving Rio Grande cutting through it; white-capped mountains rise in the distance.
You can sometimes spot a waterfall tumbling down the rocks.
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Stay a while and soak in the scenery - it’s divine at any time of year.
Tripadvisor/KansasVacationer If you time your visit to coordinate with sunset, the sky turns into a vibrant canvas that enhances a view that is already astounding.
If you want to relax, settle down for a leisurely picnic. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little more active, hit the trails.
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The Blue Dot and Red Dot Trails form a roughly 7-mile long loop that makes for a stunning day hike.
Tripadvisor/44dave56 The terrain is uneven and it’s more of a moderate level trail, but you can shorten your hike and make it an out-and-back trek.
The park is located at 700 Overlook Road. Here is a map.
Google Maps
This area is so spectacular that it has been used as a movie location. Check out the opening credits of “Silverado” (from YouTube user, patwestward). Skip over the gunfight scene to the 1:18-minute mark. Look familiar?
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Flickr/Mark Kaletka
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White Rock Canyon is below, with the curving Rio Grande cutting through it; white-capped mountains rise in the distance.
Tripadvisor/Todd G.
Tripadvisor/KansasVacationer
If you time your visit to coordinate with sunset, the sky turns into a vibrant canvas that enhances a view that is already astounding.
Tripadvisor/44dave56
The terrain is uneven and it’s more of a moderate level trail, but you can shorten your hike and make it an out-and-back trek.
Google Maps
Once a year, Overlook Park hosts a lovely kite festival. For more info. Like you needed another reason to come to this amazing place!
What’s your favorite urban oasis in New Mexico?
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