Jemez Historic Site. Photo by Tira Howard. Courtesy of New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs,
Five New Mexico Regions Offer Boundless Exploration
WHETHER you’re seeking a brief change of scenery, a family vacation, or an adventurous getaway, New Mexico’s four distinct regions offer a bit of everything - natural beauty, rich history, outdoor activities, cultural diversity, and authentic cuisine. Below is just a sampling of the experiences awaiting staycationers and vacationers alike.
Northwestern New Mexico: Rocks, Roads and Bling
FROM the Four Corners monument (where you can stand in four states simultaneously), to the ancient mysteries of Chaco Canyon, and the 1960’s vibes of historic Route 66, the northwestern section of New Mexico takes tourists from prehistoric times to the “Mad Men” era and beyond depending on your interests.
Amid 200-million-year-old cliffs outside Gallup is Red Rock State Park and Museum. It chronicles the lives and culture of the ancestral Puebloans as well as the present-day Zuni, Hopi and Navajo through a treasure trove of artifacts and artwork. It is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Its website provides the following driving instructions: If you use a GPS, enter 825 Outlaw Road. However, once in the
park, follow the left road at the fork, not the right. The 825 Outlaw address is located inside the campground area, and the museum is the other road.
Another opportunity to immerse yourself in antiquity is at El Morro National Monument, (south of Interstate 40, west of Ramah on NM 53) where fragments of history and ancient cultures are embedded in the great sandstone promontory. Over hundreds of years, Spanish and American travelers rested and carved their signatures, brief messages and the dates they were there. For operating hours and trail information, call the visitor center at 505-783-4226, ext. 801, for the most up-to-date information. Campground sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Art gallery walks are among the most popular activities in Farmington. Start at Orchard Park for maps and other helpful information, then meander to your heart’s content among artists selling their creations in shops, in the park, and outside along the art walk route. While walks are offered year-round virtually through the Farmington Convention Center at farmingtonnm.org/virtual-art-walk, the seasonal guided walks are not to be missed if you can make one.
As of deadline for this publication, the next was set for 5-8 p.m. June 6. A Southwest Apple and Chile Fest Art Walk is being planned this year for October 3. See the Northwest New Mexico Arts Council website, nwnmac.org, for details. A downtown Makers Market also occurs 3 p.m. to dusk Thursdays from June through the end of September. It features vendors of fresh produce, baked goods, handmade leather products, and art, as well as live entertainment. Venture along historic Route 66 where you can see the motels, diners, and neon of the era as the "Mother Road" winds its way west out of Albuquerque toward Gallup. For railway buffs and those interested in the history of
4: Five New Mexico Regions Offer Boundless Exploration
4: Northwestern New Mexico: Rocks, Roads and Bling
6: Northeastern New Mexico: A Raucous Past Among Varied Vistas
10: Southwestern New Mexico: Frontiers Old and New
12: Southeastern New Mexico: From Caves to Casinos and Sand Dunes to Space
14: North-Central New Mexico: History, Art, Culture
16: Sandia Pueblo’s Bien Mur Indian Market Center Celebrates 50 Years
18: Scenic Byways Make Mapping a Road Trip Easy
24: Discover Socorro in 2025
26: Vacation 2025: Alamogordo is a Gateway to Your Next Adventure
29: Pop a Pistachio: New Mexico’s Other Tasty Treat
31: Cloudcroft: A Mountain Paradise in the Land of Enchantment
Los Alamos, NM. Photo courtesy of City of Los Alamos.
Northwestern New Mexico: Rocks, Roads and Bling
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the Southwest, Gallup’s historic railway depot is worth a photo op. The Southwest Indian Foundation also operates the Gallup Cultural Center (https:// gallupculturalcenter.org/) inside the depot, 201 E. Highway 66. Open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday, its Storyteller Museum, Master's Gallery, and exhibits on the Navajo Code Talkers, Route 66, and Fred Harvey hotels offer a unique glimpse at the history of the Southwest. Displays about trains, coal mining, weaving, Native sand paintings and silversmithing are also included.
A scenic drive off I-40 east of Grants escorts you to the other-worldly volcanic flows of El Malpais National Monument, located on exit 85 off I-40 in Grants. Trails and parking areas outside the Visitor Center are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except for the Sandstone Bluffs Overlook, which is open from sunrise to sunset. The Visitor Center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily but closed major holidays. Stop in for maps, information, orientation, cave permits, a Western National Parks Association bookstore, museum exhibits, and park movies. For more information and updates on operations and closures, visit https://www.nps.gov/elma/ planyourvisit/conditions.htm.
Take a stop from your scenic tour of the region at Sky City Casino Hotel on I-40, east of Grants. Sky City offers 24-hour gaming with more than 550 of the newest and hottest slot and video poker machines, Las Vegas-style table games, bingo, and live entertainment, with fine accommodations and dining all in one place.
Trading posts and shops throughout Northwestern New Mexico offer a variety of new and old Native American arts and crafts, including painting, pottery, jewelry and carved fetishes.
Northeastern New Mexico: A Raucous Past Among Varied Vistas
NORTHEASTERN New Mexico's diverse terrain includes everything from the state’s highest mountain, to the valleys and clear water streams of the Pecos River. As a result, this quadrant of New Mexico has some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found.
As expansive as the mesa is the area’s history, which includes outlaws, Rough Riders, a raucous cow town and the dwellings of ancient civilizations. Experience the mystery and intrigue of the historic St. James Hotel in Cimarron, a tiny community with a storied past that includes Buffalo Soldiers and train robbers.
Make a stop along the legendary Santa Fe Trail into the once-bustling cattle town in Las Vegas. It was there that President Teddy Roosevelt recruited a cavalry regiment to
fight in the Spanish-American War. Called the Rough Riders, the group was composed of volunteers from a variety of backgrounds, including cowboys, businessmen, and Native Americans. The City of Las Vegas Museum and Rough Rider
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Gallup Intertribal Ceremonial. Photo by Jared Tarbel. Raton, NM. Photo courtesy of City of Raton.
Get Your Hands On History
Experience Over 300 Years of History
El Rancho de Las Golondrinas, “The Ranch of the Swallows,” is the premier living history museum of the Southwest with 500 acres to explore, 34 historic buildings, and hands-on experiences for all ages.
Northeastern New Mexico: A Raucous Past Among Varied Vistas
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Memorial Collection tell the stories of Roosevelt’s charge on San Juan Hill in the war. Venture to nearby Fort Union and walk through the Territorial style adobe remnants of the region’s largest 19th-century military fort. Recognized for its antique shopping opportunities, Las Vegas also provides a chance to learn the New Mexico Harvey House story. Entrepreneur Fred Harvey built a series of iconic hotels and restaurants along the railway routes of the Southwest, attracting tourists to the area from around the world at the turn of the 20th century.
Nestled among the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains just six miles from the Colorado border, hospitable Raton offers fresh air, expansive scenery, a variety of recreational activities, a vibrant art scene, and regular downtown events.
A dozen miles northeast of Raton, you’ll find camping, fishing and hiking in Sugarite Canyon.
About 40 miles west of town, enjoy abundant wildlife, luxurious spa amenities and fine dining amid the ultimate outdoor adventure on Ted Turner’s 585,000-acre Vermejo Park Ranch.
Finally, don’t miss the National Rifle Association’s largest shooting range in the country. The NRA Whittington Center, located southwest of Raton, offers guided hunts, shooting, camping, firearms training and pistol courses. Call ahead at 800-494-4853 to create your experience.
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Southwestern New Mexico: Frontiers, Old and New
STANDING in stark contrast to the many historical landmarks dating back hundreds of years throughout this quadrant of New Mexico is the commercially licensed Spaceport America. Built as a hub for future space travel on 18,000 acres of desert, the facility is situated along a path followed centuries ago by other like-minded souls seeking a new frontier. Visiting and touring the secure, futuristic facility requires prior authorization and a minimum 24-hour advance reservation. To inquire about private tour availability, call (915) 3559702 or email: cr@finalfrontiertour.com.
Nearby, the tiny agricultural community of Hatch proudly produces New Mexico’s famous green chile. Name recognition of New Mexico’s beloved signature crop from Hatch is growing nationwide.
The region is also home to many pecan orchards as well as vineyards. New Mexico is the oldest wine-growing region in the country – more than 100 years older than California. Franciscan monks brought vines over from Spain in the 17th century to make sacramental wine during Spanish colonization.
An ideal place to stop for a glass of award-winning wine or to pick up a fine vintage to take home is Rio Grande Winery, 5321 N Highway 28, outside of Las Cruces. The winery produces nearly 20 wine varietals, including Mission wine (a variety that dates back about 500 years), pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc and malbec, on its 23 acres. The sweet oasis in the desert has for decades provided panoramic views of the Mesilla Valley. Live music often is scheduled Thursdays through Sundays. The
winery is closed Mondays, and operating hours vary on other days. Visit https://www.riograndewinery.com or call (575) 201-3744 for more information.
Once a railroad hub, Las Cruces is home to New Mexico State University and serves as a center for agriculture, science, and technology research. A short jaunt to the southwest part of Las Cruces and you’ll find yourself in the quaint village of Old Mesilla with its distinctive central plaza and shopping venues.
Head west toward New Mexico’s bootheel and enjoy the rustic ambiance of Deming, Lordsburg, and border-town Columbus. Check local listings in these areas for reenactments of life on the frontier.
Civil war history, mining, prospectors, and the Wild West are all part of the texture of Silver City, located just three miles east of the Continental Divide. No trip to this area is complete without a visit to Catwalk National Recreation Area, five miles off the highway from the village of Glenwood. Suspended dramatically along a beautiful canyon and over a cool creek that borders the Gila Wilderness, the catwalk is a half-milelong bridge that is universally accessible for all visitors.
In the Mimbres Valley, volcanic ash shaped by wind 35 million years ago created the geologic formations that comprise City of Rocks State Park, halfway between Silver City and Deming.
Fort Bayard offers a glimpse at Civil War Life. The spectacular Gila Cliff Dwellings, Gila National Monument, and Gila Wilderness are an indescribable must-see. Travelers will enhance their experience by making time to drive the Trail of Mountain Spirits, a 93-mile National Scenic Byway that winds around the southwest corner of New Mexico and past ancient cliff dwellings.
Southeastern New Mexico: From Caves to Casinos and Sand Dunes to Space
FOR those interested in outdoor adventures at national parks, exploring the possibility of UFOs, learning about the Space Age, or even about atomic warfare, a sojourn to Southeastern New Mexico promises all of that and much more.
Since release of the Academy-award winning movie Oppenheimer, interest in the Atomic Age has increased. Anyone wanting to step back to that period of our nation’s history should start in Alamogordo. The town is famous for its connection with the first atomic bomb test explosion, conducted at the Trinity Site in 1945. Guided tours of the site are offered through the International Space Hall of Fame Foundation in support of the New Mexico Museum of Space History, also in Alamogordo. For details on Trinity Site tours, visit https:// www.spacehalloffame.org/trinity-site-tour-reservation/. Be sure to also make time for the Space Museum, which has exhibits on rockets, what it’s like to live and work in space, and the significant role that space science in New Mexico has played in America’s Space Program. Visit https://www.nmspacemuseum.org/ for information.
Alamogordo’s pioneering history is celebrated at the Toy Train Depot, a museum dedicated to restoration, acquisition, display, and interpretation of railroads of all scales and gauges, including fullscale train items. There’s a little something for everyone young, old, history buffs, train enthusiasts, Southwest adventurers, and souvenir seekers. Visit https://toytraindepot.org/ or call (575) 437-2855 for the most recent information. Operating hours are normally 11 a.m.4 p.m. Thursday – Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays.
Before heading out of the area, take a nutty photo at the World's Largest Pistachio, 7320 US HWY 54 70. The 30-foot structure, built in 2007, stands outside PistachioLand, where nuts and pistachio bobbleheads can be purchased.
Less than thirty minutes from Alamogordo, walk through dunes of glistening gypsum sand, and experience the unforgettable beauty of White Sands National Park. This is where the first settlers came more than 10,000 years ago and the U.S. military conducted research during World War II. The Visitor Center and gift shop are open daily at 9 a.m. The park, including the Dunes Area, hiking trails, and picnic areas open 7 a.m. to sunset throughout the year. Visit https://www.nps.gov/whsa/planyourvisit/hours.htm for details.
The White Sands Missile Range Museum provides history of the region and the Trinity Site, where scientists tested the first atomic bomb in 1945. Due to missile testing on the adjacent White Sands Missile Range, it is occasionally necessary for visitor safety to close the road into the park for several hours. U.S. Highway 70 between Alamogordo and Las Cruces is also closed during times of missile testing. Visitors on a tight schedule are encouraged to check the park closure web page, https://www.nps.gov/whsa/planyourvisit/ park-closures.htm, on the day before arrival to confirm hours of operation. You may also call (575) 678-2250 or visit https:// wsmrmuseum.com/ for updates.
A short jaunt away is Artesia, where downtown you can experience art and culture on the street. A series of bronze statues are positioned within the downtown district on Artesia’s History in Bronze and Downtown Walking Tour. It begins at the Artesia Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center in the historic train depot and stops at the impressive Artesia Public Library, home to a 46-foot Peter Hurd mural. The artwork was rescued from a downtown Houston building slated for demolition. Call (575) 746-2744 for more details.
The diverse and dramatic geology in this region features flat expanses of seemingly endless prairie connecting to the foothills of the Sacramento Mountains, in which the villages of Cloudcroft and Ruidoso nestle.
Meaning “a pasture for the clouds,” Cloudcroft is the highest town in the state at 8,676 feet in elevation. Its location makes it an ideal mountain town to visit year-round. Summers are mild, offering the perfect weather for golfing, hiking and fishing. In the winter, the village transforms into a snowy paradise, providing ample opportunity for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and snow tubing. For those seeking a more leisurely pace, charming shops and dining options are walkable. The Burro Street Exchange, for example, carries unique local crafts, and Mad Jack’s Mountaintop Barbeque has earned a following for its slow-cooked dishes. For anyone planning to stay overnight, The Lodge at Cloudcroft Resort is one of New Mexico’s most renowned hotels. Though built in 1899 and rumored to house a few ghosts, it now has modern amenities that include a spa. The newest addition to Cloudcroft’s lodging options is the 50-room Grand Cloudcroft Hotel, which opened in fall of 2023. Cloudcroft also has a full calendar of festivals and events, including a wine and art event in August and a Christmas Market at the end of November. For a schedule, visit https://www.coolcloudcroft.com/ events.
Head over to Ruidoso for gambling, including the luxury and amenities of the Inn of The Mountain Gods, and Billy the Kid Casino and Ruidoso Downs Race Track.
To the south is Carlsbad, where Carlsbad Caverns National Park invites visitors to trek beneath the earth’s surface to see dozens of limestone caves. Bats that sleep in them by day fill the evening sky as they head out in a cloud of black to hunt insects. Reservations must be purchased online or by calling (877) 444-6777. Reservations only secure an entry time; entrance tickets must still be purchased upon arrival at the visitor center. For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/cave/planyourvisit/index. htm.
Photo courtesy of Rocko16, via Wikimedia Commons.
Southeastern New Mexico: From Caves to Casinos and Sand Dunes to Space
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In Lincoln County, see the courthouse where notorious outlaw Billy the Kid shot his way out of jail. New Mexico’s most visited historic site, Lincoln offers an immersive experience hearkening back to a violent period in the state’s history, the Lincoln County Wars. A short drive away from Lincoln is Fort Stanton, established to protect settlements along the Rio Bonito in the Apache Wars. Built in 1855 as a U.S. military fort, this is the largest of New Mexico’s state historic sites. Kit Carson, Billy the Kid, and Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th Cavalry all lived at Fort Stanton. Confederate forces occupied the outpost in the beginning of the American Civil War, and later it served as America's first federal tuberculosis sanatorium.
If possible, be sure to visit the International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell – even if you’ve been before. The museum underwent an extensive remodel and expansion about two years ago. It is open 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. daily, except major holidays, with an admission fee of $4 to $7 depending on age and military status.
Nearby, take a spin to Bottomless Lakes State Park. It lies 14 miles southeast of Roswell, where sinkholes range to 90 feet deep. The park’s recreation area is open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Check the website for closures and construction updates: https://www. emnrd.nm.gov/spd/find-a-park/bottomless-lakes-state-park/.
North-Central New Mexico: History, Art, Culture
THE largest city in the state, the oldest state capital in the country, world-class art, and an authentic railroad town can all be found in New Mexico’s North-Central quadrant cities of Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, and neighboring towns.
Here, majestic mountains rise abruptly from great expanses of plains, falling off to wooded river valleys. This diverse terrain provides a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, cycling and mountain biking. Just as varied are the surrounding communities, which comprise a mix of small-town charm, bucolic serenity, and a sleepy mountain-ringed village.
Make some time to experience the rich history and culture of Belen, founded in 1740 and interwoven with Spanish, German, and other cultures. The community boasts an original Harvey House and offers a glimpse at what this historic railroad town looked like in the early 1900s. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities.
Birders, golfers, art lovers, historians, and campers will find plenty of entertainment in Socorro. Check out the city’s
website, https://socorronm.org/, for a full list of activities available in the area, including walking tours, dirt biking, and shopping and dining.
If you like games of chance, then try your luck at Route 66 Casino on Interstate 25, west of Albuquerque. The casino floor features more than 1,000 slots,15 Vegas-style table games, a popular bingo hall, as well as full hotel accommodations, food, and regular entertainment options.
The rich history of Los Lunas can be discovered with a stop at its Visitors Center, open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. While there, look at the rich history of Los Lunas through a photo display inside the building.
Don’t miss Albuquerque’s Historic Old Town Plaza, the humble roots from which Albuquerque grew. Old Town offers an impressive selection of New Mexico cuisine and the work of local artisans in an area that surrounds historic San Felipe de Neri Church. Nearby are the City’s BioPark, which is home to Albuquerque’s aquarium, zoo, and botanic gardens, as well as several museums, including the Albuquerque Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History. The plaza also offers a therapeutic ambiance if you just want to sit and watch the world go by.
Sixty miles north of Albuquerque on I-25, historic Santa Fe has world-class art galleries, museums, and restaurants. It is also the seat of state government. Explore the fascinating history of the Palace of the Governors on historic Santa Fe Plaza amid the city’s signature Pueblo Revival architecture. Savor local cuisine at any number of restaurants, or grab a bite from a food cart's tasty hand-held faire on the plaza.
Not to be missed is the original Meow Wolf in Santa Fe, which calls itself a “cosmic adventure of explorable art” and “an immersive art experience.” Tour its House of Eternal Return to encounter strange beings, visit spectacular dreamworlds, and discover uncharted realms. For details and tickets, visit https://meowwolf. com/visit/santa-fe.
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The roadrunner is the New Mexico state bird. Photo courtesy of City of Albuquerque.
Sandia Pueblo’s Bien Mur Indian Market Center
Celebrates 50 Years
By AUTUMN GRAY
BIEN Mur Indian Market, which claims to be the largest retail arts and crafts store in the Southwest, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Owned and operated by the Pueblo of Sandia, the store has been an economic engine not only for the Pueblo but also for the broader Native community, while serving as a destination for locals and tourists alike.
The 8,000-square-foot kiva-shaped showroom routinely carries an inventory of more than 400 artisans and crafts representing about eight of New Mexico’s 19 Pueblos. Items for sale include baskets, rugs, storytellers, kachinas, sand paintings, fetishes and moccasins. However, best sellers are the Navajo, Hopi and Zuni jewelry, as well as pottery from Acoma, Santo Domingo, Santa Clara, San Idelfonso and Zuni, said manager Paul Jones.
“We help the economy of the Pueblos, and we educate people about Native culture when they come in to buy products,” Jones said.
Bien Mur is translated as “big mountain.” It is located on Tramway Road, just east of Interstate 25, at the base of the majestic Sandia Mountains, which are considered sacred by the Sandia Pueblo.
Also of cultural importance is its 107acre buffalo preserve, to the east of the shop and bordering Bien Mur’s parking lot. The picturesque herd, which is maintained at about 40 head, was established to promote the resurgence of the American bison after the animals were all but exterminated during the mass slaughter of the 1800s. Many indigenous people consider the buffalo a sacred animal and a symbol of strength and abundance for the clothes, tools, shelter and other life necessities it provides.
Today, the preserve is a magnet for locals and tourists taking seasonal photos of the magnificent animals against the everchanging high desert landscape. Thanks to efforts such as the Sandia preserve, the buffalo are now thriving in herds across the West. However, it remains a rarity to have them located so close to an urban area.
In honor of its 50th year, Bien Mur plans to hold a celebratory event from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 17-18 in the parking area. About 30 vendors are expected to participate, along with food trucks serving traditional Pueblo-style food.
North-Central New Mexico: History, Art, Culture
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Step back in time just south of town at El Rancho de las Golondrinas. The Southwest’s premier living history museum, whose name means The Ranch of the Swallows, is dedicated to the history, heritage, and culture of 18th- and 19th-century New Mexico. Located at 334 Los Pinos Road, this historic site was an important paraje, or stopping place, along the famous Camino Real, the Royal Road from Mexico City to Santa Fe. Daily tours from 10 a.m.-noon are available and free with admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Private guided tours are available by reservation April-October. The museum is closed November through March. Call 505.471.2261, ext. 101, for more information, or visit https://golondrinas.org/.
North of Santa Fe in the town of Española, take a spin by the Santa Claran Hotel and Casino; the Puye Cliff Dwellings, which give visitors an immersive experience into the lives of the ancients; and the Black Mesa Golf Course, a great challenge to duffers.
Known as a world-class ski area for decades, Taos Ski Valley has gained renewed attention since a $300 million Europeanstyle redevelopment gave it a facelift that includes a hotel, a spacious children’s center and other added amenities that can be enjoyed year-round. Skiers and non-skiers alike benefit from Taos' clean air and magnificent views, rich spiritual
traditions, creative inspiration, abundant outdoor recreation and shopping.
For additional winter sports options, check out Angel Fire Resort, which offers a memorable Rocky Mountain experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Located 8,600 feet above sea level, the resort has views of Wheeler Peak, the highest point in New Mexico.
Eight miles south of the Colorado border, the small town of Chama boasts elk habitats, clean rivers, hunting, fishing, rafting, hiking and camping, as well as a must-see night view of the Milky Way. Serious hikers can pick up the Continental Divide Trail not far from town. Chama’s train depot is the western terminus of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. The train is scheduled to operate through October 25 this year. Visit https://cumbrestoltec.com/ for tickets and updates. It’s a good idea to book in advance.
Chama also hosts an annual Fourth of July fireworks display, and in the fall, the area around Chama is one of the best places in the state to see brilliant foliage.
The largest retail arts and crafts store in the Southwest; solely owned and operated by the Pueblo of Sandia. - Authenticity Guaranteed -
Inventory of the Bien Mur Indian Market Center: Hopi, Navajo, Santo Domingo, and Zuni
Jewelry, Pottery, Storytellers, Navajo Rugs, Zuni Fetishes, Sand Paintings, Flutes, Rattles & Drums, War Bonnets, Moccasins, Pendleton Blankets, Zapotec Rugs, Books & Music
Bien Mur Indian Market Center
100 Bien Mur Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113 • 505-821-5400
Monday - Saturday 9:30am - 5pm • Closed Sundays Call for seasonal hours. • www.sandiapueblo.nsn.us
Retail & Wholesale Association Membership
Roswell may be known for extraterrestrial fame, but there’s so much more to discover. Explore the Spring River Zoo. Take a stroll through downtown Roswell to unearth unique shops and treasures. Beam over to Bottomless Lakes State Park with stunning blue waters, swimming, and hiking. Or journey to Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge with abundant birdlife and breathtaking sunsets.
Plan your trip at SeeRoswell.com.
Scenic Byways Make Mapping a Road Trip Easy
By AUTUMN GRAY
The following has been compiled from information provided by the websites of Tracks Across Borders Byway, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the New Mexico Tourism Department, TheArmchairExplorer.com, U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, Colorado Department of Transportation, America’s Scenic Byways, and the National Scenic Byway Foundation.
NEW MEXICO has 25 recognized scenic byways, totaling 2,900 miles of diverse landscape, history, and culture that will have you yelling, “Road trip!” Committing to one or more of these drives promises photos worthy of a glossy coffee table album, infinite Instagram posts, and “remember when” stories to last generations.
The New Mexico Vacation Directory (NMVD) has been delivering to our readers detailed descriptions of a handful of the byways annually since 2023. These comprehensive summaries include mileage, average time to visit, and suggestions for stops along the routes to stretch, grab a bite, get some exercise, learn something, or even stay overnight.
Past NMVD issues can be found at our website, https://www. travelnewmex.com/, so if you missed one – or if you just need a refresher we encourage tourists and locals to go back to them to help you plan meaningful adventures across all regions of New Mexico. Eight of our byways have even earned National Scenic Byway distinction from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The byway(s) you select determines the theme and vibe of the trip: Steam-powered locomotives or canyon rafting. Cool mountain overlooks or contemporary art galleries. Indigenous ruins or Old West mining ghost towns. Regardless of your choice, the byways showcase some of the most outstanding scenic beauty, historically significant locales, cultural richness and bizarre features of the state. We have chosen to highlight six byways – four state and two national – in this edition. Taken together, they crisscross a major portion of New Mexico and offer a variety of time commitments.
NORTH/NORTH-CENTRAL
Tracks Across Borders State Scenic Byway (includes the Narrow Gauge Scenic Byway)
Length: 125 miles, crossing the New Mexico-Colorado border. The 10-mile New Mexico portion of the route is sometimes referred to as the Narrow Gauge Scenic Byway, with the Colorado side called Tracks Across Borders. In this description, the Tracks Across Borders Byway encompasses both.
Driving time: 4 1/2 hours, with minimal stops. It is easy to turn this into a day trip or even an overnight excursion. Of note: Mobile service is limited or unavailable along portions of the route.
Website: https://tracksacrossborders.com/
Designated in 2015, this 125-mile historic and scenic byway is among the newest of the 25 recognized scenic byways nationwide. It is unique because it is New Mexico’s only scenic and historic byway that connects two states and two tribal nations. The byway closely follows the historic Denver and Rio Grande Western narrow gauge locomotive route that linked Chama, N.M., and Durango, Colo., until 1969. It was ultimately the nation’s largest narrow gauge railroad system.
That the byway essentially follows the railroad tracks - via US 84 West from Chama into Colorado and then US 160 West - makes the route particularly ideal for train buffs. It presents opportunities to get out of the car and ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad from Durango or Silverton, Colo., and to ride the renowned Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, based in Chama.
However one travels, this backcountry byway enables you to step back in time, taking in the little-changed western landscape and learning about the rich history of this part of the old American West.
The byway takes travelers through charming towns and cultural tribal reservations, passing through the Southern Ute Indian Tribe reservation. It also skirts the north end of Navajo Lake, a littleknown environmental and recreational gem in the Colorado and New Mexico State Parks systems.
Chimney Rock National Monument is accessible via a northeastern spur off the main route. Here, visitors can see one of America's newest national monuments with Chaco period (AD 800 to 1200) significance. This was the time when the ancestral Pueblo people in the Four Corners region (New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado) flourished, with the focal point being Chaco Canyon in northwestern New Mexico.
The Tracks Across Borders Byway also includes the ancestral homelands of Jicarilla Apache, Southern Ute, and Ute Mountain people.
Here’s a list of some recommended places to stop – with emphasis on the New Mexico side, of course!
• Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation & Dulce, N.M.
The Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation in New Mexico is set against the backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the traditions and heritage of the Jicarilla Apache people while experiencing the scenic wonders of the region. Visit NewMexico.org for more information.
• Town of Chama and the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Southern Rockies, Chama is a picturesque town known for its rich railroad history and outdoor recreation. It is home to the renowned 145-year-old Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a National Historic Landmark
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Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. Photo courtesy of Marcel Marchon / lazytom, via Wikimedia Commons.
new mexico museum of space history
Alamogordo • 575-437-2840 nmspacemuseum.org
new mexico museum of natural history & science
Albuquerque • 505-841-2800 nmnaturalhistory.org
national hispanic cultural center
Albuquerque • 505-246-2261 nhccnm.org
new mexico farm & ranch heritage museum
Las Cruces • 575-522-4100 nmfarmandranchmuseum.org
museum of indian arts and culture
Santa Fe • 505-476-1269 indianartsandculture.org
museum of international folk art Santa Fe • 505-476-1204 internationalfolkart.org
new mexico history museum Santa Fe • 505-476-5200 nmhistorymuseum.org
new mexico museum of art Santa Fe • 505-476-5063 nmartmuseum.org
new mexico historic sites Statewide • 505-476-1130 nmhistoricsites.org
Explore DCA Museums and Historic Sites
Pass to See It All
Mexico CulturePass is your passport to 16 museums and historic sites. Available online at: nmculture.org/visit/culturepass
Scenic Byways Make Mapping a Road Trip Easy
that is the highest and most authentic steam railroad in North America.
The train covers 64 miles through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Rocky Mountain West, from the San Juan Mountains to the Conejos Valley. Riders can choose their departure location, from either Antonito, Colo., or Chama. Either way, the train winds along steep mountain canyons, high deserts, lush meadows, over trestles, and through tunnels.
The Cumbres & Toltec is operating May 31-October 25 this year. For a full schedule and tickets, visit https://cumbrestoltec.com/.
If your stomach is growling, stop in at one of Chama’s local eateries. The Elk Horn Café offers American comfort food and a selection of teas in a casual setting associated with a historic fishing lodge. Patsy’s Restaurant and Bakery dishes up New Mexican cuisine, and Fina’s Diner is known for its breakfasts, though it is open for lunch, too. For a more upscale experience,
visit Rio Chama Espresso Kitchen & Wine Bar, which sells breakfast options and pastries, plus wine, beer, and small plates. For dinner, enjoy a slice of pizza and some new Western cuisine at Local in downtown Chama. Then, continue embracing the railway theme into tomorrow by staying at Chama Trails Motel, where you can dream about your next adventure on Tracks Across Borders Byway.
Go to VisitChama.com for more information on things to do in the village, restaurants, places to stay, and events.
For a glimpse at the area’s indigenous cultures, the Southern Ute Indian Reservation near Ignacio, Colo., invites visitors to immerse themselves in the traditions of the Southern Ute Tribe while marveling at the breathtaking beauty of the region. Ignacio is home to the Southern Ute Cultural Center & Museum, which helps foster understanding and respect for the unique origin, culture, language, history, and way of life of the Núuchi (Ute People). Visit SouthernUte-NSN.gov.
Chimney Rock National Monument is a gem of an archaeological site off the beaten path. You’ll find it at the southern edge of the San Juan Mountains in Southwestern Colorado, 30 minutes southwest of Pagosa Springs. Taking the spur to the site offers the complete Tracks Across Borders experience.
You can enhance your byway experience by downloading the free Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad app, which includes an audio tour, additional stop highlights, and GeoAlerts. (continued on next page)
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Wild Rivers Backcountry Federal Scenic Byway
Length: 13-mile closed loop
Driving time: 1 hour to drive, with brief stops; a day or more to fully enjoy
Costs: Day use costs $3 per vehicle, and camping fees range from $5-$7 within the BLM’s Wild Rivers Recreation Area.
The Wild Rivers Backcountry Byway follows the Rio Grande Gorge near Taos and provides access to the Bureau of Land Management’s Wild Rivers Recreation Area. The double-lane, lowspeed, paved road offers visitors some of the best scenic views in the state and a variety of recreational opportunities and facilities for all seasons.
To access the byway, take NM 378 west from NM 522, approximately two miles north of Questa. Follow it for six miles until you reach the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument sign, which marks the start of the byway.
As the byway loops through the Recreation Area, it provides access to the rock-strewn, riffling upper reaches of the Rio Grande - a haven for hikers, cyclists, wildlife-viewers, anglers, rafters, and sightseers. Here, the Taos Plateau’s sagebrush and piñon-juniper flatlands are sliced by a steep chasm of black rock, which carves its way down 800 feet to a ribbon of river and which gapes for a full mile at its widest point.
As the canyon descends from rim to river, its ecosystems change, creating a unique diversity in plant and animal life. Ancient pinon and juniper forests include 500-year-old trees. Watchable wildlife opportunities include mule deer, big horn sheep, elk, red-tailed hawk, and mountain bluebird.
Spectacular overlooks include the 360-degree vista at La Junta Point, one of the most dramatic views in the state, above the confluence of the Red River and the Rio Grande. It alone is worth the drive and is wheelchair accessible.
Several trails wind their way down to the river and backcountry campsites at the bottom of the gorge, where ponderosa pines offer tall shade for trout fishermen/women/children. The upper reaches of the Rio Grande are also a whitewater wonderland for kayakers and rafters in years of abundant snowfall.
Be aware before you go that boating within the Wild Rivers Recreation Area is hazardous and requires a permit. Also, many trails are steep, and hiking in this area can be strenuous. Most
Modern Muse 61 Shirley Lynn Fine Art
Carol Wilkins Studio Aposto
Chimney Rock National Monument. Photo courtesy of dwhartwig, via Wikimedia Commons.
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Rio Grande Gorge. Photo courtesy of MarkTSnow, via Wikimedia Commons.
Discover Socorro in 2025
NESTLED in the heart of New Mexico, Socorro is a charming town rich in history, natural beauty, and vibrant community spirit. Its name, meaning "help" in Spanish, dates back to 1598, when the Piro Indians aided Spanish settlers led by Juan de Oñate as they emerged from the arid Jornada del Muerto. Today, Socorro remains a welcoming destination known for its scenic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and world-class research institutions like the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (NM Tech) and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO).
Visitors can explore Socorro’s breathtaking outdoors, from the rugged beauty of Box Canyon and San Lorenzo Canyon, to the serene trails of Water Canyon and the Magdalena Mountains. The iconic 'M' on the mountain west of town signals that you’ve arrived at a place where history and adventure intertwine. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast,
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trails have an elevation gain anywhere between 300 feet and 800 feet, and are two miles or more roundtrip. A parking area, some interpretive signage, and water spigots can be found at most trailheads. To safely navigate these trails, visitors need to be able to handle steep, sometimes technical trail sections, have sturdy shoes, and be able to carry drinking water in various weather
The climate is semi-arid with summer thunderstorms common in July and August, and snow possible from November through March. Summer temperatures range from 45 degrees to 90 degrees F and in winter from -15 degrees to 45 degrees F.
The byway loops past the Wild Rivers Zimmerman Visitor Center, home to a mural painted by a collaboration of New Mexico artists who share a passion for the area and its wildlife. Due to staffing shortages, it was only open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays as of deadline for this story.
For a downloadable map of hiking trails, roads, fees, and other details, visit https://www.blm.gov/sites/default/files/docs/202303/map-wild-rivers-trails-tfo-2022.pdf. For more information, call the Taos Field Office at 575-758-8851 or visit https://www.blm. gov/visit/wild-rivers-recreation-area.
Mesalands State Scenic Byway
Full day, estimated 10 hours without stops
Visit Socorro
ANNUAL EVENTS
The Mesalands State Scenic Byway, which starts from Albuquerque heading east on Interstate 40, is likely the most convoluted to follow of all the New Mexico routes. Highlighting intriguing towns, a few state park lakes and towering mesas, it follows at least 10 highways, looping across Interstate 40 several times from San Jose in the east to Santa Rosa in the west. Along the way, it passes through Santa Rosa, Puerto, figure-eights around Ragland, Tucumcari, Conchas, Newkirk, Wheatland, San Jose, and Logan, and ends at Glenrio. See map at https://www.newmexico. org/places-to-visit/scenic-byways/mesalands/.
TheArmchairExplorer.com advises that most of the route is drawn around the constraints on using any portion of an interstate highway as part of a byway, but sections of Interstate 40 do make it easier to drive the entire byway without backtracking several sections.
While car windows will give views of mostly plains, mesas, and working ranchland, the appeal of the area may be in imagining what it once was - a real-life Mesozoic Park. Here, a former wonderland of dinosaurs and tropical forests thrived along the
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Blue Hole in Santa Rosa, NM. Photo courtesy of jaygannett, via Wikimedia Commons.
Vacation 2025: Alamogordo is a Gateway to Your Next Adventure
WHEN you are looking for a new territory to explore, set your sights on Alamogordo, the small enclave in the southern central region of New Mexico that deserves a second look. Whether attending the annual Balloon Launch at White Sands National Park or chasing waterfalls in the Lincoln National Forest, this unique city at the foothills of the Sacramento Mountains places you right on the doorstep of nature’s playground.
Did you know White Sands National Park can be seen from outer space? The good thing is that you’re only 14 miles away from this iconic national park when you're in Alamogordo. Love photography? From Alamogordo, a city nestled at the foothills of the Sacramento Mountains, it’s easy to capture your trophy shots of this gypsum wonderland. Head northeast on Highway 82 from Alamogordo, and you can be in the Lincoln National Forest at 9,000 feet elevation in 20 minutes. Abundant wildlife lives among the majestic aspens and the numerous trails. Birds-eye views of the breathtaking Tularosa Basin will captivate you and your camera.
While in Alamogordo, learn and play at the oldest zoo in the Southwest, the Alameda Park Zoo, where over 200 animals await your arrival. Catch a glimpse of the newest colorful residents, the mandrill monkeys. Learn all about how these brilliant primates communicate through their colorful fur! The historical zoo features over 12 acres of shady, grassy areas, a duck pond, a walk-through aviary, playground space, and picnic tables.
Love sports? How about golf at the Desert Lakes Golf Course? Friendly, affordable, and challenging year-round golf amenities at Alamogordo’s fairways await. Or, try your hand at archery with both indoor and outdoor ranges in the area. They are perfect for beginners and seasoned archers.
Ready to learn more about the birthplace of space history and exploration? The New Mexico Museum of Space History, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Museum, is right here in Alamogordo, offering spectacular views from high in the northeast part of the city. Dress up as an astronaut on the moon and pilot a space shuttle. Afterward, view an unforgettable show at the New Horizons giant screen dome theater and planetarium adjacent to the museum.
Alamogordo boasts a region ripe for growing fruits and nuts. Pistachios, pecans, and grapes flourish here. Orchards of lavender, apricot, peach, apple, cherry, and pomegranate thrive in the high desert. Tour the nearby pistachio farms and vineyards and pick-your-own fruit during harvest season in La Luz, Tularosa, and High Rolls. Foraging walking tours with live outdoor cooking demonstrations in downtown Alamogordo are more ways to have first-class agricultural enjoyment. Be sure to indulge in some local pistachio ice cream or award-winning wine.
Alamogordo’s Mainstreet area highlights more of the town's treasures. The Tularosa Basin Museum of History, Otero Arts, the Flickinger Center for the Performing Arts, the Toy Train Depot, and the delightful murals are all enlightening, budget-friendly stops.
It may be difficult to decide where to dine out in Alamogordo, and the local eateries are packed for good reason. Whether you crave a sit-down full-service meal, an al fresco bite from a food truck, or a craft brew, Alamogordo has you covered for hearty, satisfying local eating and drinking. Live music often included.
Even one of Alamogordo's local grocery markets has enough food and activity for a day. See a working totilleria; enjoy a bar with 20+ brews on tap; delight in a coffee shop, grill, a deli, or sushi stall; and enjoy live music all in one spot. Visit AlamogordoNMTrue.com, or call 1.800.826.0294.
Alamogordo…where the desert meets the mountains. Photo courtesy of NM True.
Above White Sands…where the sky meets sands. Photo courtesy of NM True.
Pop a Pistachio: New Mexico’s Other Tasty Treat
GEORGE AND MARIANNE Schweers wanted to return to their agriculture roots after a career in the Air Force that culminated at Holloman Air
Force Base near Alamogordo. When 400 seedling pistachio trees, the first planted in New Mexico, came up for sale, the couple thought a perfect opportunity had presented itself. Neighbors thought the Schweers were, well, nuts.
The Schweers had done their homework and found that the Tularosa Basin in South Central New Mexico had a climate very similar to the pistachio-growing regions of Iran and Turkey. It was a natural desert crop to add to the agricultural scene. Ancient legends from the Middle East allude to the mystique of the tasty nut being associated with romance and royalty. So, besides being tasty and heart healthy, it is fun! One of the legends is that young lovers can walk through the groves holding hands, and if they listen carefully and hear the nut shells popping open, theirs is indeed true love. Supposedly, the Queen of Persia (Iran) believed pistachios were an aphrodisiac and kept them as treasure in her storehouses.
Being in business over 51 years, Eagle Ranch contains New Mexico’s oldest and largest-producing groves, with more than 13,000 trees. Totally self-contained, it is a fully integrated agribusiness, growing, processing, packaging and marketing its products to both wholesale and retail customers. All the farm products are sold under its familiar trade name, “Heart of the Desert.”
The Schweers’ son, Gordon, developed the original chile-flavored pistachios. The farm now boasts nine flavors. The family began a vineyard in 2002 and now has 24,000 grapevines in seven varietals. Chardonnay, cabernet, zinfandel, shiraz, riesling, malvasia bianca, and gewurztraminer make a wide range of wines possible.
Popcorn and pistachios continue to be a popular snack mix. Three distinct flavors — Pistachio Caramel; Green Chile Pistachio Caramel; and Red Chile Pistachio Caramel — satisfy that famous New Mexico question….."Red or green?" Both, of course! All are produced in the popcorn factory on the farm.
There are three store locations to serve you — the primary store on the farm beside Hwy 54/70, north of Alamogordo; Heart of the Desert at the Mercado in Mesilla; and Heart of the Desert at the Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces. Orders ship worldwide, accessing the store via mail, phone, email, FAX, and online at www.heartofthedesert.com.
Tours of the farm are fun and free, and sampling the wine and gourmet products is delightful at all the locations!
*Story courtesy of Heart of the Desert.
Cloudcroft: A Mountain Paradise in the Land of Enchantment
NESTLED in the Sacramento Mountains of southern New Mexico, Cloudcroft is a picturesque village known for its rich history, cool climate, stunning vistas, and abundant outdoor recreation activities. Cloudcroft, with its blend of natural beauty and historical richness, invites visitors to embark on an enchanting journey through time and nature, making it a year-round, mustvisit destination in New Mexico.
Established in the late 19th century, Cloudcroft has evolved from a lumber and railroad town into a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The picturesque Trestle Recreation Area preserves the remnants of the late 1800’s historic era, featuring the iconic Mexican Canyon Trestle, a testament to the village's railway heritage.
Cloudcroft's elevation of around 9,000 feet makes it a cool escape from the arid lowlands of New Mexico and the higher temperatures of its Texas neighbors. Lush forests, meadows, and miles of trails offer an idyllic setting for a wide array of outdoor activities. This area boasts miles of trails for hiking and biking, catering to all skill levels and offering panoramic vistas and wildlife sightings. Cloudcroft is also home to several campgrounds that offer facilities for tent and RV camping, along with picnic areas perfect for family gatherings.
The Lincoln National Forest is a recognized dark sky location in New Mexico, and Cloudcroft’s remote location makes it an ideal spot for stargazing and astronomy under the clear mountain skies.
During the winter months, Cloudcroft transforms into a wonderland. Ski Cloudcroft offers family-friendly slopes for skiing and snowboarding, along with winter and summer tubing. Step back in time and experience a truly old-fashioned holiday season in Cloudcroft, the Christmas Capital of New Mexico.
Stroll through Cloudcroft’s quaint village center, Burro Street, where you can explore a variety of shops, boutiques, and galleries that offer unique gifts, local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious local cuisine.
Cloudcroft hosts several festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate the local culture and outdoor recreation. The Cloudcroft Chamber of Commerce holds Mayfair, Beerfest, Art & Wine in the Cool Pines, Lumberjack Day, and the Cloudcroft Christmas Market, just to name a few examples of the vibrant community events that bring residents and visitors together for music, food, and fun.
Cloudcroft is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its diverse range of activities, from hiking and biking to relaxing and stargazing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, the charm and natural beauty of Cloudcroft will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return to this mountain paradise.
Cloudcroft area wildlife
Cloudcroft Annual Lumberjack Day
Burro Street
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shores of an inland sea during the Mesozoic geological age. Many fossils of plants and animals, as well as dinosaur bones, have been discovered here, and many are probably yet to be found. For the best one-stop overview of the area’s ancient history, visit Mesalands Dinosaur Museum in Tucumcari: https://www. mesalands.edu/community/dinosaur-museum/. It’s open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
Mesalands Scenic Byway crosses the historic and huge 300,000acre Bell Ranch, about 45 miles northwest of Tucumcari. Owned by John Malone since 2010, it is one of the largest privately owned ranches in the country and became a national landmark in 1974. With 453 square miles, it is big enough to have its own ZIP code, 88441. Primarily a cattle ranch, it was used in the filming of many Westerns (including the TV show "Rawhide"). Several of the Marlboro Men were Bell Ranch cowboys before and after their time in the limelight, according to TheArmchairExplorer.com. In the 1940s, famed photographer Harvey Caplin took images in black and white. Some of these have been used by the Stetson Hat Company for promotion since that time as the quintessential western iconography, according to Burt Rutherford’s article “New Mexico’s Iconic Bell Ranch Changes Hands,” in Beef Magazine, in 2010.
For some outdoor recreation, including fishing, camping, hiking, picnicking and even scuba diving, Ute Lake, Santa Rosa Lake, and
Conchas Dam state parks are all located on this byway. Indeed, Santa Rosa, known as the City of Natural Lakes, is famous for scuba diving in its 80-foot-deep pool, Blue Hole. An adjacent, privately-operated dive center has equipment rentals, tank refills and diving permits.
Not a diver? The crystal blue, all-natural swimming hole offers all ages a chance to swim and snorkel in a water body with underground caves in the middle of the desert. Its water stays at 64 degrees year-round. Visit https://www.santarosabluehole. com/. Santa Rosa is also home to Janes-Wallace Dam Lake, Park Lake, and Perch Lake.
Conchas Lake State Park, which is near Bell Ranch, surrounds a 25-mile-long reservoir and provides a retreat for camping, boating, and water sports.
East of Conchas Lake State Park is Ute Lake State Park, centered around a 12-mile-long reservoir on the Canadian River. It, too, offers a range of outdoor activities but is most well-known for fishing bass, catfish, crappie and walleye.
South of Santa Rosa is the village of Puerto de Luna ("Door of the Moon"). “Supposedly the name is derived from the days when Francisco de Coronado's conquistadores built a bridge across the Pecos River here and observed it under the light of a newly-
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Scenic Byways Make Mapping a Road Trip Easy
risen full moon,” according to TheArmchairExplorer.com. Billy the Kid was a regular visitor to Puerto de Luna, even eating his last Christmas dinner there in 1880. The town has hardly changed since, thus offering visitors a chance to see what Hispanic New Mexico was like in the days of the Western frontier.
At the conclusion of the route, consider visiting the Caprock Amphitheatre and Ralph Stanfield Memorial Nature Trail, where NM 469 climbs to the top of the mesalands. Nestled in the picturesque city of Glenrio, the hike/run nature trail here is amid 33 acres of park land.
CENTRAL
Abo Pass Trail State Scenic Byway
Length: 31 miles
Driving time: 30-60 minutes (NM 47 and US 60)
The Abo Pass Trail connects the ruins of Abo Pueblo on its eastern end to the city of Belen on the west. It also connects El Camino Real Scenic Byway to the Salt Missions Scenic Byway. (See NMVD’s 2024 edition for details on those.)
Throughout history, this trail has been a key east-west connection for trade, today by train and in its ancient beginnings, by foot. In fact, this byway runs along what was an important segment of a Native American trade route established in 1450 A.D. The route eventually became part of a trade corridor linking the Pueblos and the Plains Indians to El Camino Real and a network of trails throughout the Southwest.
Now, the byway offers pristine and panoramic views of the Manzano Mountains, which flank the trail, as well as unspoiled open spaces and a national wildlife refuge.
A highlight of the path is the chance to see Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument along the way. It is composed of the ruins of three Pueblos: Quarai (eight miles north on NM 55), Gran Quivira (25 miles south on NM 55), and Abo (nine miles west on US 60). The Abo Pueblo was one of the largest Pueblos in the Southwest and a key trading village for more than 300 years, until severe drought and/or disease from Spaniards led to its abandonment in the 1670s.
The red stone walls of Abo's San Gregorio Mission (late 1620s) and Quarai's La Purisima Concepcion (1630) rise suddenly against a deep blue sky. By contrast, the stone wall ruins of San Buenaventura Mission (1659) at Gran Quivira are gradually revealed as you walk to the top of Chupadero Mesa.
Each of these places has its own special beauty, and a visitors center in Mountainair includes a museum that provides information on them.
At the end of the Abo Pass route, Belen offers visitors a chance to see an original Harvey House via the Belen Harvey House Museum (https://www.harveyhousemuseum.org/). It is open noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and its Whistle Stop Café is open noon to 3 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Belen also provides a glimpse at what a historic railroad town looked like in the early 1900s.
Corrales Road State Scenic Byway
Length: 6.7 miles
Driving time: 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on traffic and how often you stop. From Interstate 25 in Albuquerque, exit Alameda heading west. Then turn north on Corrales Road/NM 448 for the duration.
Corrales Road Scenic Byway follows a stretch of New Mexico Highway 448 through the historic rural district of Los Corrales de Alameda. Nestled along the Rio Grande, with the Sandia Mountains as an eastern backdrop, this bucolic area has been farmed for 1,300 years. Slow curves (often with a heavily-enforced 25 mph speed limit) take you through small farms, cottonwoods, vineyards, horse ranches, and along an eclectic Main Street with architecture holding firmly to the area’s Spanish Colonial roots. Corrales offers a surprisingly small-town vibe even though it’s just north of Albuquerque. Visitors can see Canada geese collecting in a roadside field, happen upon a farmer’s market, see horses and llamas idling by a fence, dine on village pizza or true farm-totable fare, browse art galleries and local boutiques, or just walk and listen to the wind in the cottonwoods. Indeed, this area is one of the finest remaining examples of the original Rio Grande cottonwood forest.
Unlike any other byway in the state, this one offers a leisurely route through nature (via the Bosque, fields of crops, vineyards, and livestock corrals) in addition to a variety of shops, restaurants and wineries along Corrales’ main thoroughfare.
A narrow strip of land called the Corrales Bosque Preserve is habitat to a diversity of wildlife and connects with the 16-mile walk-bike Paseo del Bosque Trail. The Bosque's 400 acres along 10 miles of river provide habitat for more than 180 species of migrating and nesting birds. There are numerous non-maintained trails in the preserve that can be used by walkers, hikers, horseback riders, and bicyclists, but many people opt to just stroll, picnic, fish, or bird watch.
Parking for visitors to the Corrales Bosque Preserve is available at the south end (Alameda bridge) and north end (Siphon Road). Limited parking is available at Romero Road. The preserve is open between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. April to October and from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. November to March.
Also along the Corrales Road Byway are the historic structures of San Ysidro Church, a traditional New Mexican adobe Catholic church on the National Register of Historic Places, and the adjacent Casa San Ysidro: The Gutiérrez / Minge House. Both are excellent examples of traditional Hispanic New Mexican architecture.
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Abo Pueblo ruins. Photo courtesy of Moubee, via Wikimedia Commons.
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The “Casa,” as it is known locally, is a satellite of the Albuquerque Museum, operated jointly with the Village of Corrales. According to the City of Albuquerque, Casa San Ysidro may be the only historic property in the state where the collections, as well as the structures, are listed on the State Register of Cultural Properties. The Minge Collection includes architectural elements, furniture, religious art, household tools and hardware, jewelry, Hispanic and Pueblo weavings and pottery, a transportation collection, and historic photographs. Casa San Ysidro is designated by the National Park Service as a stopping point on El Camino Real de la Tierra Adentro National Interpretive Trail. The property is home to one of the most comprehensive collections of New Mexican art and furnishings. To schedule a tour, visit https://www.cabq.gov/ artsculture/albuquerque-museum/casa-san-ysidro.
SOUTH/SOUTHWEST
Trail of Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway
Length: 93 miles
Driving time: 3 hours to drive, or 6-8 hours for a richer experience
The Trail of Mountain Spirits winds around the southwest corner of New Mexico, back and forth across the forested Continental Divide, through the country's first national wilderness area, the Gila, and past ancient cliff dwellings.
Long known locally as The Inner Loop, especially among bicycle race fans, it serves as the route for the grueling annual Tour of the Gila bicycle race, which begins in Silver City, at the southern end of the byway. However, it's just as fun to travel by car or motorcycle or bike on your own, and it offers a wealth of yearround birding options.
The byway crosses six climatic zones and a broad swath of the Old West territory made famous by the daring exploits of Native Americans, Buffalo Soldiers, frontier families and scurrilous outlaws.
Though travelers can start their journey anywhere along the route, Silver City, home to the third largest open pit copper mine in the world, is an excellent spot at which to begin. It also sits just three miles east of the Continental Divide.
From Silver City, take US-180 east toward Bayard and Santa Clara along NM-152. The city of Bayard has a few points of interest, including Fort Bayard and its Historic Mining District. From there, continue east along NM-152 and stop by Hanover, where you can see the Santa Rita Mine Overlook and take in the views.
Once you reach San Lorenzo, take NM-35 north and stop in Mimbres. There are plenty of natural wonders that can be found here and in the surrounding area. To start, you can drive up to the Bear Canyon Reservoir or the Mimbres Valley. The Mimbres people lived here almost 1,000 years ago and remain an enigma. Archeologists can only speculate about their beginnings (perhaps evolved from Mogollon culture), and especially about their ultimate fate. Graceful Mimbreño pottery is the most famous artifact of the culture. Pottery often depicted geometric designs, daily routines, or animals — cranes, turkeys, fish, hummingbirds, even mosquitoes. On feast days, the usually quiet valley community of San Lorenzo overflows with pilgrims walking to the small miracle room tucked into the local church. Watch for the cutoff to Bear Canyon Lake, a
little gem offering fishing and other recreation, and a picturesque, intermittent waterfall.
Further north, in the Sapillo Valley, find “the Emerald of the Gila Forest.” A high-country 73-acre jewel, Lake Roberts was created by damming a creek in the 1960s. Camp, hike, or fish for trout, bass, and plump catfish. There’s a general store nearby.
At the northernmost point of the byway is the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Examine the homes and lives of the Mogollon people who lived here from the 1280s through the early 1300s. Mogollon culture may have evolved from the Anasazi and/or the Hohokam. Though the cliff dwelling site is small compared to Mesa Verde National Park and Bandolier National Monument, the dwellings hold their own in impressiveness.
Before heading back south to Silver City, relax at the Gila Hot Springs.
As you approach Silver City, historic Pinos Altos is nestled in ponderosa pines. You can see ruins of old mines and a quaint museum dedicated to the original miners of the 1800s. While you meander around the vintage Western downtown, check out The Buckhorn Saloon and the Opera House, known for its melodramas.
An important note for birders: The byway overlaps with the Southwest New Mexico Birding Trail, an Audubon-designated trail for birders through the Gila. Some 337 species of birds have been found at the eight stops along the byway. For details about the individual sites, a checklist of birds and much more, visit https:// southwest.audubon.org/sites/default/files/Birding%20Trails%20 in%20Southwest%20NM.pdf
The above information has been provided by the National Scenic Byway Foundation website: https://nsbfoundation.com/nb/trailof-the-mountain-spirits-scenic-byway/.
Before visiting any of the byways, remember to check road and weather conditions.
There are more than 1,200 national byways across the country, all of which exhibit one or more of six core intrinsic qualities — scenic, historic, recreational, cultural, archaeological, or natural.
View of the Sandia Mountains from Corrales, NM. Photo courtesy of Marble Street Studio.
