Page 66 - 2019 Las Vegas & San Miguel Co. Visitors Guide

MORA COUNTY
DesTinaTion: Mora
Some have considered Mora, NM as just a “pass through” town on their travels throughout Northern New Mexico. But Mora isn’t a “pass through”, it’s a destination! Just as rich in culture and history as it is in beauty, the township of Mora rests at the foot of the lustrous Sangre De Cristo Mountains and sits center of some amazing attractions and fun for the whole family.
TOURING MORA
Located along Highway 518, Mora was the central hub for a line of many industrial mills that used to be the financial driver of the Mora Valley. Still up and worthy of a visit are the La Cueva Mill, the St. Vrain Mill, and the Cleveland Roller Mill. In fact, every
year for Labor Day Weekend the Cleveland Roller Mill hosts one of the largest arts and crafts festivals in Northeastern New Mexico attracting visitors from as far as Colorado, Oklahoma, and Texas. With great music, amazing food, and captivating tours of the working mill, this event never ceases to inspire.
If you make it to see the La Cueva Mill, make sure you visit the La Cueva Raspberry Farm locat- ed Just across the street from the mill. Open during the summer and early fall, the Raspberry Farm is the largest raspberry farm in Northern New Mexico. At harvest season you can pick your own raspberries and enjoy them on your own raspberry sundae at their delicious cafe, or you can pick up a jar of rasp- berry jelly at the La Cueva Souvenir Store.
Another mill that exists along highway 518 is the infamous Mora Valley Spinning Mill which is also home to the Tapetes De Lana Art Gallery and Store as well as The Coffee Barn snack shop. The Mora Valley Spinning Mill has been spinning and dyeing wool for customers, as far Canada, for the past 11 years. With tours available daily, you can experience the journey that wool takes from its washing all the way to its spinning into yarn. And you’ll enjoy all the art and creations you can purchase from Tapetes De Lana, created by local artists. Rugs, clothing, numer- ous hand-crafted souvenirs, as well as photographs and hand-painted pictures that will light up any liv- ing room. And if your getting exhausted from all the fun your having while in Mora, don’t leave without fueling up on some coffee or a snack from The Coffee Barn.
Also a part of the Mora Valley Spinning Mill are the Historic Hanover Hotel and the Historic Chief Theater of Mora. Originally a theater for plays and concerts, the Historic Chief Theater eventually was converted to a movie theater. Currently under reno- vation for re-open, the theater is currently available to the public for tours.
CAMPING MORA:
Mora is also the destination for some of the most amazing fishing and camping experiences that you
can have in New Mexico. Just miles from Mora along a meandering creek is Coyote Creek State Park. Fa- mous for its fishing, Coyote Creek State Park also of- fers a camping experience that will make any level of camper enjoy their visit. Offering sites with electrici- ty, water, and Wi-Fi, those who hate to “rough it out” will feel comfortable with this park’s amenities, in- cluding their showers! Still, for those ready to rough it out, there are many campsites among the park that will allow you to cut yourself from society and enjoy the beauty of Mora. With trails to hike, fields to run in, and a playground for children, the whole family will have a memorable experience.
However, if lake fishing and camping is what you prefer, you need not worry. Just miles in the oppo- site direction is the “lake in the clouds”. Sitting at 8,000 feet, Morphy Lake State Park is another Mora destination that can be enjoyed for the day or an ex- tended camping stay. Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this hidden lake sits at the edge of the Pecos Wilderness and is stocked with rainbow trout, offering excellent fishing. Canoeing is also a popular activity and this pristine scenic spot offers a unique opportunity for primitive camping.
With quick access to more supplies within the town of Mora, extended stays at either spot are made easy without losing the sense of escape.
PLAYING IN MORA:
Mora also proves to be a great destination for those who like to play outside in any season. Just over the hill from Mora rests Pendaries Golf Club and Resort. Offering one of the most illustrious and innovative golf courses in New Mexico, you will en- joy every hole you putt as you golf the mountainside of Pendaries Village. And don’t be surprised if you have to compete with some wildlife on the course! Offering breathtaking views and challenging fair- ways, Pendaries offers you to extend your stay at its motel, RV Park, or even its cabin rentals. With the ability to rent a cart to tour the course, frisbee golf, and even hiking opportunities, this destination is a must for the Mora visitor.
66 | Las Vegas & San Miguel Co. Visitors Guide 2019