Point of Rocks

Located southeast of Truth or Consequences along the historic Jornada del Muerto, Point of Rocks is a prominent basalt outcrop that served as an important landmark for travelers on El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro for more than 300 years. Today, this rugged desert landscape offers birders an opportunity to explore Chihuahuan Desert habitat while enjoying sweeping views of the Jornada Basin and one of the Southwest's most significant historic travel corridors.

While Point of Rocks is best known for its historical significance, the surrounding desert grasslands, rocky slopes, and shrublands support a variety of birds adapted to open arid environments.

What to Expect
Visitors will encounter a landscape of volcanic rock formations, desert scrub, grasslands, and expansive views across the Jornada del Muerto. A short interpretive loop trail leads to elevated viewpoints overlooking the historic route once traveled by Spanish colonists, traders, missionaries, and settlers.

Birding opportunities are centered around the desert habitat surrounding the trail. The open terrain makes it easy to observe raptors, ravens, and other species moving across the basin, while shrubs and washes may harbor sparrows, wrens, and other desert birds.

Birds You May See
Species vary by season, but commonly observed or expected birds include:

Golden Eagle
Red-tailed Hawk
Northern Harrier (winter)
American Kestrel
Prairie Falcon
Turkey Vulture
Greater Roadrunner
Common Raven
Loggerhead Shrike
Black-throated Sparrow
Horned Lark
Western Meadowlark
Cactus Wren
Rock Wren
Canyon Towhee
Pyrrhuloxia
Mourning Dove
White-winged Dove
House Finch
Brewer's Sparrow (winter)

Spring and fall migration may bring additional raptors, sparrows, and songbirds moving through the Jornada Basin.

Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May)
Mild temperatures and seasonal migration make spring one of the most productive times to visit. Raptors, sparrows, and desert songbirds are often active.

Summer (June-August)
Resident desert birds remain active, especially during the cooler morning hours. Monsoon season can increase wildlife activity across the basin.

Fall (September-November)
Cooling temperatures and migrating birds create excellent conditions for hiking and birding.

Winter (December-February)
Winter often brings grassland birds, sparrows, and hunting raptors to the area. Clear skies and excellent visibility make wildlife observation rewarding.

Best Time of Day
Early morning is generally the best time for birding, offering cooler temperatures and increased bird activity. Late afternoon can also be productive for observing soaring raptors and enjoying dramatic views across the desert landscape.

Getting There
Point of Rocks is located east and southeast of Truth or Consequences along Sierra County Road A013 (Upham Road). The site is managed as part of the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail and includes a short interpretive loop trail with educational signage. Visitors should carry water, wear sun protection, and be prepared for remote desert conditions.

Birding Tip
Bring binoculars and spend time scanning the horizon. The elevated viewpoint at Point of Rocks provides excellent opportunities to observe raptors and ravens moving across the Jornada del Muerto while also offering a unique perspective on the historic route that shaped New Mexico's early history.