At Oliver Lee Memorial State Park south of Alamogordo, hiking trails lead into the Sacramento Mountains, providing fantastic views of the Tularosa Basin all the way to the Organ and San Andres Mountains. Wide open skies, deep canyons, 100 year pioneer history, and the vegetation of Chihuahua Desert makes any trip enjoyable. Take lots of water, and stop to admire an ocotillo cactus in bloom or marvel at the 15 foot sotol plant. There may be a colorful sunset for a picnic supper.