An area map is available, as well as detailed directions from regional airports. If you are not a US citizen, please read the instructions from your destination airport.
APO does not recommend using GPS for directions to the site; please use the written directions below.
APO/SDSS/NMSU Purchasing, Travel, Receiving, and Shipping Procedures
APO Site Safety
Plan, V2.31 (current); APO Sprinkler and Shutter Procedures (pdf)
Howard B.'s Fire Suppression Sprinklers Setup and Operation
APO Winter Driving Guidelines (.doc, .pdf)
When visiting the observatory from November through March a 4wd is recommended. Roads to APO are all paved but are subject to heavy snow and ice. Due to steep grades and winding roads, winter driving can be hazardous. NMDOT only plows the road after the main arteries are cleared, usually after the storm front has passed. Certain curves may have ice and snow even when the remaining parts of NM6563 is dry. When arriving after dark always call the site for road conditions prior to departing Alamogordo. We do not recommend traveling during the main part of the storm. Bring a snow/ice scraper if possible. Cell phone coverage is non-existant along most of NM6563.