Have you ever wondered why New Mexico is called the “Land of Enchantment?” Although the beautiful state typically gets overshadowed by its neighbors, New Mexico houses two national parks, nine national monuments, three national historical parks, and one national preserve. It harbors three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than any.
On its way from Chicago to California, Route 66 passes some of the most spectacular adventures in the U.S. Consider this your guide to kicking up some outdoorsy fun along the historical route. On its way from Chicago to Los Angeles, this historic 20th-century highway makes a 2,500-mile dash across some of the most rugged landscapes in the U.S. Along the way, there’s a mix of famous national parks, like the Grand Canyon, and plenty of lesser-known outdoor spots, like spring-fed rivers, ancestral ruins, and volcanic trails.