Paintout - Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge

S. of Socorro

photo by Elaine Koehler

Known as one of the most spectacular wildlife refuges in North America, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge straddles the Rio Grande Valley in Socorro County. The heart of the Refuge is about 12,900 acres of moist bottomlands - 3,800 acres are active floodplain of the Rio Grande and 9,100 acres are areas where water is diverted to create extensive wetlands, farmlands, and riparian forests. Sandhill Cranes, Snow Geese and many other migrating birds make the Bosque their winter home.

Meet at the Visitor’s Center parking lot.
From there we can cross the road and enter at the gate house choosing either the south or north loop roads. The north loop is usually the most popular. Follow the one-way signs and the restricted areas. There are hefty fines for stepping over the barriers.
Directions:
From either north or southbound I-25 take the
San Antonio exit (#139). It is about 20 miles south of Socorro. Go east about ½ mile on Hwy 380 into the village of San Antonio. Watch for Hwy 1, the Owl Café will be on your left. Turn right at the intersection and go south on Hwy 1 for about 8 miles and watch for the Visitor’s Center on your right.

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