Winter in New Mexico is a delightful experience for all outdoor enthusiasts. Given the state’s geographic diversity, we have the option to prance through a winter wonderland on snow-covered mountains or warm-up on hiking trails and nature expeditions by heading south.

While there are plenty of areas to explore this time of year, one is the perfect migratory destination for humans and our feather friends: Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
John Fowler/Flickr
Located about 1.5 hours south of Albuquerque via NM-1, this refuge is a marshy haven for thousands upon thousands of migrating birds, specifically the sandhill crane.
Larry Lamsa/Flickr
Sharing the refuge with snow geese and Ross's geese, a massive flock of cranes use the waters here to rest and feed safely from predators.
Larry Lamsa/Flickr
Although the numbers vary each year, the refuge often sees over 10,000 sandhill cranes in the winter months.

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The visitor center provides details on the most recent feeding and roosting times for the cranes, so you can easily plan your photoshoots with the available daylight.
US Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters/Flickr
The birds typically seek food during sunrise and sunset hours, so you can expect to find dramatic shots of the cranes flying through the Bosque.
It's a stunning sight to see so many birds in the water and sky, making it the perfect outing for birders and photographers alike.
Larry Lamsa/Flickr
Have you had a chance to visit Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge? We would love to hear about your experience!
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is located about 95 miles south of Albuquerque in the town of San Antonio, New Mexico.
Google Maps

The refuge visitor center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. between September 1 and May 31. General admission fees start at $5 per vehicle. You can find additional details by visiting the refuge’s website or Facebook page.

Website: Fish & Wildlife Service / Bosque del Apache
Facebook: Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge
Phone: 575-835-1828

While you’re in the area, be sure to stop by the Owl Bar and Cafe in San Antonio for a menu of deliciously amazing burgers. You can read more in Everyone Goes Nuts For The Hamburgers At This Nostalgic Eatery In New Mexico. We know it will top your list as a new burger joint favorite.

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Featured Addresses
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 1001 NM-1, San Antonio, NM 87832, USA