8 Most Scenic Drives in New Mexico
New Mexico is home to 2,900 miles of scenic byways across the state, making it an ideal road trip destination for a long weekend, or perhaps a week or two! Known as the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico is rich in archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, and recreational attractions. Whether you prefer long stretches of a desert landscape or the towering mountains in Taos, a couple of hundred miles through New Mexico offers it all. Pack up your suitcase, fill up your tank, and head west to experience the magic of New Mexico.
Pecos to Jemez Springs
The drive from Pecos to Jemez Springs is just over 100 miles and will take about two hours. Start your journey at the Ruins Trail of Pecos and take in the sights of prehistoric ruins throughout the Pecos National Historical Park.
Continue your drive southwest through Santa Fe National Forest to the Valles Caldera National Preserve. Enjoy Valles Caldera’s abundant wildlife, and if you plan your visit during the fall, you might catch their annual Fall Fiesta! Head back in your car and continue along the route, looping north towards Los Alamos and Fenton Lake State Park. The latter is excellent for history buffs, while the former is perfect for those who want to cool off in crystal-clear water.
Billy the Kid Scenic Byway
This drive is just under an hour and forty minutes long, and covers over 80 miles. The scenic byway follows the iconic Wild West lore of Billy the Kid. Start your drive in Lincoln at the Old Lincoln County Courthouse. This historical marker is a major landmark of local history, as the courthouse served as a store, residence, Masonic Lodge, courthouse, and jail.
Continue your drive north, then west through Ruidoso to see the beautiful Grindstone Lake or have a glass of wine at Noisy Water Winery. In Ruidoso, you will also see the Billy the Kid Byway Visitor Center and, of course, the Ruidoso Downs Racetrack. Continue your drive back east towards Hondo. Along the route, you will enjoy stunning mountain scenery and get a chance to live like the outlaw himself!
Santa Rosa to Bernalillo
Start your drive with a dip in Blue Hole in Santa Rosa. Blue Hole is a natural swimming hole with clear blue waters, making it a popular scuba destination. Continue along famous Route 66 for two hours and 130 miles, and be sure to end your drive with a burger from Range Café in Bernalillo for lunch or dinner.
That said, for a more fun route, take a detour north onto US-285 and stop at La Cieneguilla Petroglyphs in Santa Fe to see ancient markings sprinkled along the rock faces. Santa Fe is also an opportunity to stop in Los Alamos. Once you reach Bernalillo, stop for a hike at the Placitas Trailhead; the views and natural landscape are breathtaking.
Mountainair to Estancia via Tijeras
This route runs from Mountainair north to Tijeras, east to Moriarty, and then south to Estancia, making a sort of U-turn! This drive will take you approximately two hours over a 90-mile course, but it’s the perfect route for those who love the historic and beautiful missions located throughout New Mexico.
You will want to start your trip at the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument near Mountainair. Here you will experience the dwellings of early Pueblo people. It’s also a great spot for stargazing! Next, head north to Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site for an afternoon picnic or simply a beautiful drive through nature. In Moriarty, stop at Taqueria Los Patatuchi for delicious tacos! Your final stop will be the tiny, storybook town of Estancia; this western village hosts festivals throughout the year, but try to time your visit for the summer to catch their musical performances!
Chimayo to Taos
The drive from Chimayo to Taos is particularly magical in the winter, but it makes for a great, quick road trip year-round. Chimayo is home to Santuario de Chimayo, often referred to as the most important Catholic pilgrimage site in the United States.
Once you leave Chimayo, head north, and you’ll drive through the town of Truchas. Truchas is a beautiful, artsy town home to several art galleries, such as the Montez Gallery. Head from Truchas’s downtown a few minutes north to the Truchas Overlook for a stunning photograph. Next, continue along High Road to Las Trampas. Stop and walk around at the Las Trampas Historic District to check out a preserved 18th-century village. Finally, hop back on the road and head to your final stop of Taos, where you can choose from shopping in Taos Plaza or skiing the slopes!
Gila Hot Springs to Hanover
This road trip generally runs south over the course of an hour and 20 minutes, covering approximately 50 miles. Gila Hot Springs, located within the Gila National Forest, is home to a network of natural thermal springs, including the private Gila Hot Springs Campground and the public Jordan Hot Spring. Head south to Lake Roberts for another dip or hike around the Mesa Campground and enjoy the beautiful, waterfront views.
Your next stop will be a great opportunity for lunch! Once you reach Mimbres, head to The Log Cabin Restaurant for some casual, comfort food. Your final stop will be dealer’s choice, either the Historical Hanover Outpost or the Santa Rita Copper Mines. Both spots are historically significant must-sees in Hanover. Alternatively, you can go from Hanover to Gila for a relaxing night with hot springs and outdoor camping.
Tijeras to Valle Vista
Start your road trip with a cup of coffee and breakfast from Roots Farm Café in Tijeras. After breakfast, head north to the Tijeras Canyon Historical Marker; this canyon separates the Sandia Mountains to the north from the Manzano Mountains in the south.
Your drive will take you about an hour and thirty minutes north along what is affectionately known as the Turquoise Trail, a 47-mile route. Stop by Cedar Crest at Ojito de San Antonio Open Space to take a short hike and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. Around lunchtime, you will find yourself in Madrid. Be sure to grab a bite at The Mine Shaft Tavern & Cantina, known for its history dating back to the 1890s and amazing New Mexican fare. Finally, make your final stretch north to Valle Vista, where you’ll stop at the historical Spanish village El Rancho de las Golondrinas.
Ramah to Aztec
This scenic drive will take you from El Morro National Monument in Ramah north to Aztec Ruins National Monument in Aztec, with loads of stops in between. Both of the aforementioned landmarks date back hundreds of years. The drive itself covers over 170 miles and takes just under three hours to complete.
Along your trek north, stop at the New Mexico Mining Museum in the town of Grants. This is also an excellent opportunity for a coffee stop at El Cafecito. Continue north to Ambrosia Lake near the San Mateo Mesa, or drive a bit further north to Lybrook Badlands in Counselor. Finish up the last bit of your drive to Aztec and enjoy the ruins!
A Drive Through The Land Of Enchantment
The land of enchantment certainly delivers on its promise. From crystal-clear hot springs to ancient ruins, New Mexico has something for everyone. History buffs and outdoorsy folks alike will be sure to enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful landscape. The small towns along the way will serve as great stopping points for a cup of coffee or a snack as you make your way across the beautiful state. Don’t forget to fill up at the next gas station, and enjoy your trip!
