Bird and wildlife lovers can spend a day trekking in the rugged Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge and McAllister Lake areas where eagles have been spotted as well as other unusual fauna indigenous to the Southwest.

Fort Union National Monument, located along the Santa Fe Trail, dates back to 1851. You can walk through the adobe ruins, once the largest quartermaster depot in the Southwest.

Pecos National Monument tells the story of Native American history in a pueblo that once housed more than 2,000 people. The 365 acre park trail is about 1 1/4 miles round trip, starting from the visitor center.

Fishing, Boating, Camping, Swimming: Some or all at the following: Storrie Lake State Park in Las Vegas; McAllister Lake off SR 104; Conchas Lake State Park; Villanueva State Park. Check local sources for directions, regulations, fee and license requirements.

Las Vegas Walking Tours are self-guided adventures that take you on a trip down memory lane. The pamphlets are available at many locations around town, including the Las Vegas/San Miguel Chamber of Commerce at 503 6th Street, (505)425-8631.

Not far from Las Vegas are two enjoyable trails that offer something for the serious as well as the casual hiker. Both trailheads are located at the El Porvenir,
Santa Fe National Forest campground.

To reach the trailhead take Hot Springs Road (Rt. 65) north from Las Vegas. Continue past Montezuma, through Gallinas, past El Porvenir and then follow the road to the right (watch for signs) to the national forest campground. Just before the campground is a small parking lot for hikers. The ride up to the trailhead has many great views and places to stop and take pictures.

Be prepared for wilderness travel. If you have little experience in the wilderness and using a map or compass, take someone along who can assure that you have a safe adventure. Maps and other information are available at the Forest Service office at 1926 7th Street in Las Vegas, 425-3534.