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Red River,
New Mexico
The area of Red River began in the early 1800's with
abundant fur-bearing animals attracting many trappers
and hunters. Prospectors followed in the 1860's
and by the late 1800's the population of Red River had
swelled to over 3,000, including many outlaws. It
was a frontier town with lots of saloons, a hospital,
four hotels, two newspapers and an active red-light
district.
During this era, Red River access was mainly through the
mountains east of town, across the old Red River Pass
above Aspen Park to the east. All supplies shipped
to the town came through this pass, mostly during the
summer months because of the heavy snowfalls at the top
of the mountain.
Mining played out around the turn of the century and the
town quickly lost most of its residents. Skiing and
activities brought the town back to life in the 1920's
and 30's. It continues to draw tens of thousands of
tourist each year, mainly during the summer months and
winter ski season.
Today, Red River's 500 residents enjoy the unpolluted
deep blue skies, the mild weather summer days and
invigorating nights.
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