Trans America Cycling Day 14 - Rest day in Las Cruces, NM
New Mexico has long touted itself as a state with a rich heritage that is a blend of three different cultures (Native American, Hispanic and European) that have amalgamated in a positive way. There are 23 Indian tribes located in New Mexico - nineteen Pueblos (most situated near the Rio Grande River), three Apache tribes (the Fort Sill Apache Tribe, the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the Mescalero Apache Tribe), and the Navajo Nation. New Mexico has been celebrating its diversity well before it has become fashionable to do so. Cyclists revisiting the state should check out the many Native American and Mexican festivals that take place through the year. Albuquerque and Santa Fe have large cultural centers in which to learn about the different cultures in New Mexico. Now back to yesterdays ride. The prettiest part of it began in Hatch, NM. Hatch takes pride in being called the chile capital of the world, so there is an abundance of things chile in Hatch. New Mexicans str