The Ultimate Drone Tour: Must-See Stops from Las Cruces to El Paso

Top Drone Photography Spots from Las Cruces to El Paso

Scenic Southwest Adventure Highlights

Dripping Springs Natural Area

Tucked away in the Organ Mountains, Dripping Springs stole my heart—it's such a sanctuary! With family in tow and drones fully charged, I discovered these trails that weave past historic ruins, lush waterfalls, and panoramic views that'll leave you speechless. Wildlife here is like the cherry on top—I captured the most serene snapshot of a deer family at dusk! Honestly, every droner and nature buff needs to experience the tranquility of this place. And it's ideal for all ages, so nobody misses out on the fun. This locale is a must for those wishing to engage with nature's peace (New Mexico Wildlife Federation, 2024).

White Sands National Park

Prepare to be mesmerized by White Sands National Park—envision miles of dazzlingly white gypsum dunes straight out of a fantasy. While regulations mean your drone must remain grounded, there's no shortage of magic here for photographers and nature lovers. I caught a sunrise that was so stunning, that I forgot to even miss capturing it on camera. The park's landscapes are a joy for families, too. Make a promise to yourself to bask in the twilight until the sun dips and the dunes glow like a bed of embers—it's an experience you won't forget, trust me. This family-friendly environment is something the National Park Service proudly preserves for its unique geology and accessibility for visitors of all ages (NPS Website, 2024).

Franklin Mountains State Park

Attention adventurers and thrill seekers! Franklin Mountains State Park in El Paso is your ultimate destination for a rush of excitement. With over 100 miles of trails that cater to bikers, hikers, and climbers, it’s a treasure trove for high-octane pursuits and aerial filming as cited by Texas Parks and Wildlife (Texas Parks and Wildlife, 2020). During your visit, don't miss the chance to explore the Aztec Caves Trail and the Ron Coleman Trail for some of the best views. The Franklin Mountains State Park is a highlight on the Las Cruces to El Paso road trip, offering a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and serene landscapes.

Must-See Historic and Cultural Stops

La Vina Winery

La Vina Winery, situated near the New Mexico-Texas border, is a delightful stop on your Las Cruces to El Paso road trip. As the oldest winery in New Mexico, La Vina offers a rich history and a charming atmosphere for wine enthusiasts (La Viña Winery Website, n.d.). Visitors can enjoy wine-tasting sessions featuring a variety of award-winning wines, from robust reds to crisp whites.  If you love a good red or white, or just fancy soaking up some local charm, La Vina is your spot. Tip: the vineyard at sunset is an aerial shot not to be missed.

El Paso Mission Trail

For a deep dive into the cultural soul of Texas, drift down the El Paso Mission Trail. This trail features three of the oldest missions in Texas: Ysleta, Socorro, and San Elizario. Each mission showcases unique architectural styles and rich historical significance, providing a deep dive into the region's Spanish colonial past. These missions are still active places of worship and community gathering, making them a vibrant part of local culture. Visiting the El Paso Mission Trail is not just about observing historical sites; it's about experiencing the living history that continues to shape the community. Expert-led tours offer narratives that bring to life the cultural legacy of the area, a feature often highlighted by cultural heritage institutions (El Paso Mission Trail Association, 2021).This trail is a must-see for anyone interested in historic sites in El Paso, blending educational enrichment with scenic beauty.

Hueco Tanks State Park

Hueco Tanks is where you'll find me when I'm craving a dose of the great outdoors. With boulders the size of houses and prehistoric paintings that tell ancient stories, it's a history lesson with a side of fresh air. Known for its unique rock formations and ancient pictographs, this park offers a glimpse into the lives of Native American tribes who once inhabited the area (Texas Historical Commission, 2019). Guided tours are available to take you through the park's most significant areas, including the pictographs that date back thousands of years. The park also offers excellent opportunities for drone photography, capturing the dramatic landscape and ancient artwork from above. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that vary in difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. Hueco Tanks State Park is a must-see on your Las Cruces to El Paso road trip, providing a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural enrichment.

Southwest University Park: Home of the El Paso Chihuahuas

Whether you're there for the peanuts and crackerjacks or the thrill of the game, Southwest University Park is a blast. Home to the El Paso Chihuahuas, this is where family memories are made. The park is designed with fans in mind, featuring comfortable seating, excellent sightlines, and a family-friendly environment (El Paso Times, 2022). Beyond the baseball action, Southwest University Park is known for its diverse food options, ranging from traditional ballpark fare like hot dogs and nachos to local favorites such as tacos and churros. The stadium's unique blend of sports and culinary delights makes it a standout attraction in El Paso.  It's all about the game, the snacks, and the good times here, and the fun is contagious.

UTEP vs NMSU: When Rivals Clash

The athletic rivalry between the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and New Mexico State University (NMSU) is a major highlight in the sports calendar for both cities. The games are held at various venues, such as the Sun Bowl Stadium for football and the Don Haskins Center for basketball, each offering a unique experience. Tailgating before the games is a tradition, featuring delicious food and a lively community spirit. Attending a UTEP vs NMSU game is not just about the sport; it's about embracing the rivalry, enjoying great food, and being part of a passionate fan base. This is a quintessential experience for anyone visiting El Paso or Las Cruces. I’ve witnessed and captured the electrifying atmosphere of their matchups, events that are core to local sporting culture, and lauded in collegiate sports discussions (El Paso Times, 2021).

Drone Photography El Paso vs. Las Cruces

Las Cruces is your go-to for enchanting rural landscapes that your drone will just adore, while El Paso gives you that vibrant city buzz with mountains as its crown. I'm always torn between the two! When it comes to drone photography, both El Paso and Las Cruces offer landscapes perfect for memorable aerial views. Let’s dive into what makes each location unique.

El Paso: The Sun City

El Paso, known as the "Sun City," is a fantastic mix of urban and natural environments. With a population of about 680,000, it offers diverse photographic opportunities. Here are some highlights:

• Sun City Music Festival: An annual electronic dance music festival that attracts large crowds and dynamic aerial shots.
• Local Cuisine: El Paso is famous for its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. Be sure to capture some aerial shots of bustling food markets and local eateries.
• Chalk the Block: An art festival featuring sidewalk chalk art, live music, and interactive art installations, perfect for capturing vibrant community scenes.

Las Cruces: The City of the Crosses

Las Cruces, with a population of about 100,000, is known for its "The City of the Crosses" nickname. It offers a more rural charm with a focus on natural landscapes. Key spots include:

• Local Cuisine: Las Cruces is renowned for its green chile dishes. Capture the essence of local farmers' markets and food festivals.
• Las Cruces Farmers & Crafts Market: One of the largest farmers' markets in the Southwest, featuring local produce, crafts, and live music, great for capturing community life.
• Annual Chile Drop: A unique New Year’s Eve event where a giant chile is dropped to ring in the new year, offering fun and festive footage.

Choosing Your Destination

Both El Paso and Las Cruces offer unique opportunities for drone photography. El Paso is perfect for urban landscapes and historical sites, with its dynamic cityscape and rich cultural heritage. Las Cruces provides natural wonders and rural charm, featuring picturesque mountains and serene desert landscapes. Capture the diverse urban scenes of El Paso or the natural beauty of Las Cruces for memorable aerial footage.

We are proud to be named a local expert on ApartmentGuide. Read the full article 5 Steps to the Perfect Day in Las Cruces, NM: Building the Ideal Itinerary and get inspired for your next drone adventure. Enjoy your visual journey!

References

• Bureau of Land Management (BLM). (n.d.). Dripping Springs Natural Area.
• New Mexico Wildlife Federation. (2021). Wildlife in New Mexico.
• National Park Service (NPS). (2021). White Sands National Park.
• Texas Parks and Wildlife. (2020). Franklin Mountains State Park.
• La Viña Winery. (n.d.). History.
• El Paso Times. (2021). UTEP vs NMSU: A Rivalry of the Pass.
• ApartmentGuide. (2024). 5 Steps to the Perfect Day in Las Cruces, NM: Building the Ideal Itinerary. Retrieved from https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/5-steps-to-the-perfect-day-in-las-cruces-nm/