Dripping Springs Natural Area, New Mexico

Dripping Springs Natural Area, outside Las Cruces, New Mexico

Dripping Springs Natural Area is near the intersection of two gravel roads east of Las Cruces: Baylor Canyon Road and Dripping Springs Road. It abuts the west side of the Organ Mountains.

Dripping Springs Natural Area, outside Las Cruces, New Mexico

There are several walks at Dripping Springs. I checked out Dripping Springs Trail for a short bit, then came back and walked the La Cueva Trail.

Saw some claret cup cactus in bloom. (Thanks to the park volunteer for IDing it for me)

Claret cup cactus. Dripping Springs Natural Area, outside Las Cruces, New Mexico

I liked how La Cueva Trail has benches at regular intervals, including a few in some rare shady spots. Indeed, much - though not all - of La Cueva Trail is wheel- and walker-accessible.    

Dripping Springs Natural Area, outside Las Cruces, New Mexico

Dripping Springs Natural Area, outside Las Cruces, New Mexico

There is a shady garden with a water feature at the visitor center entrance that invites you to sit and listen to the birds. There's a drinking fountain there, too, with cold water.

Dripping Springs Natural Area, outside Las Cruces, New Mexico

I think I saw a black-chinned hummingbird in this little oasis.