I'm looking at travelling around these areas in August and after a search, average temperatures for Phoenix in August appear to be around 100 ?F and the 90's for Albuquerque, with the heat being a dry heat?
I don't mind the heat as long as it is not oppressive. I'm guessing the heat is bearable due to the low humidity?
Thanks

regarding phoenix heat, it's been hitting in the 100 to 115 degree range so far this summer. it's definitely much more bearable than say, 90 degrees somewhere humid, like new orleans. that said, it can still get pretty intense.
use sunscreen and carry a bottle of water.

If you are not used to this heat with low humidity, make sure to keep drinking water. A few years ago I went to the areas you mention. I had read about drinking lots of water but I didn't pay enough attention and ended up at a medical centre with a drip because of dehydtration! Make sure you keep drinking lots and lots of water.
Laura

Just keep in mind that August is Monsoon season in New Mexico and Arizona and you might get a lot of thunderstorms....which usually bring down the temps.

Utahtea

I was there last July in monsoon season. It was not a dry heat as advertised. To me, it was unbearable. I can stand NYC, Florida, and New Orleans heat and humidity, but not Phoenix. The only real time I spent outside was one afternoon at the hotel pool.

I live in central NM. Hot is hot is hot. Don't forget the altitude - you're closer to the sun and the bright blue sky will be gorgeous but prepare for possible sunburn. I've lived in New Orleans (20 years) with high heat and humidity and I've lived here several years and hot is hot is hot.
But, come visit. There is a gorgeous drive from Phoenix to Alb. via Globe and Show Low, AZ which you need to take.

Thanks for the replies, you've confirmed my thoughts.