Discover the Most Scenic Drives Near Albuquerque, NM: Your Complete Guide
New Mexico boasts 25 stunning scenic byways, covering over 2,900 miles. This makes it ideal for road trips and outdoor fun. The state’s mix of deserts, mountains, and valleys offers a perfect backdrop for scenic drives.
Options like the Turquoise Trail and Route 66 let you explore New Mexico’s beauty. These byways are great for hiking, camping, and enjoying the views. New Mexico has something for everyone who loves scenic drives, road trips, or outdoor adventures.
New Mexico’s varied landscape makes it a unique place for scenic drives. These byways take you through beautiful and historic areas. They offer a memorable road trip experience, whether you want a calm drive or an exciting outdoor adventure.
Why Albuquerque’s Surrounding Landscapes Make for Perfect Road Trips
Albuquerque sits at the crossroads of I-25 and I-40. This makes it a great starting point for road trips. The city’s mix of natural beauty and culture is perfect for exploring. With over 400 miles of bike paths and scenic byways like the turquoise trail, there’s lots to do outside.
New Mexico’s scenic byways are recognized for their beauty and history. Routes like the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway and the High Road to Taos are stunning. They offer amazing views, making them great for drives around Albuquerque.
The Magic of New Mexico’s Diverse Terrain
New Mexico’s terrain is both rugged and beautiful. It ranges from the Sandia Mountains to the Rio Grande Valley. These areas are full of natural and cultural wonders.
Places like the Petroglyph National Monument and the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument are must-sees. They show off the state’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
Best Times of Year for Scenic Drives
The best times for scenic drives in New Mexico depend on the route and season. Spring and fall are great for byways, with nice weather and less traffic. Summer is best for the high-country routes, like the Jemez Mountain Trail.
Winter is perfect for lower-elevation routes, such as the turquoise trail. This lets you enjoy the views without the heat.
Scenic Byway | Distance | Starting Point |
---|---|---|
Turquoise Trail | 50 miles | Albuquerque |
Jemez Mountain Trail | 163 miles | Bernalillo |
High Road to Taos | 56 miles | Santa Fe |
Essential Tips for Planning Your Scenic Drive
Before you start your road trip, think about the best times to go, road conditions, and the weather. The Turquoise Trail, a scenic byway between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, is great in spring and fall. This way, you can enjoy the views without bad weather.
Choosing the right car and planning your trip are key. Don’t forget to pack for emergencies. A good plan makes your road trip unforgettable.
Some important things to think about for your scenic drive include:
- Check the weather forecast before you leave
- Bring the right stuff, like food, water, and a first-aid kit
- Plan your stops and breaks
- Be ready for emergencies, like having a spare tire and a basic toolkit
By following these tips, you’ll have a great road trip experience. Whether you’re driving through New Mexico or across the country, stay safe, be ready, and enjoy the trip.
Scenic Drive | Best Time to Visit | Notable Features |
---|---|---|
Turquoise Trail | Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) | Historic towns, scenic views, and outdoor recreational opportunities |
Jemez Mountain Trail | Year-round, but best in spring and summer for hiking and biking | Spectacular geologic formations, ancient Indian ruins, and hot springs |
The Turquoise Trail: A Historic Journey Through Time
The Turquoise Trail is a 65-mile scenic drive. It takes you through New Mexico’s rich history and natural beauty. From Albuquerque to Santa Fe, it has many stops with unique charms.
Along the way, you can visit the Turquoise Museum in Albuquerque. You’ll learn about the area’s history. You’ll also see the stunning landscapes of the Sandia Mountains, including the Sandia Crest.
Highlights include the colorful town of Madrid and the historic town of Cerrillos. The Turquoise Trail also meets Route 66. This gives a peek into the region’s iconic roadside culture.
Spring and fall are the best times to visit. The weather is mild, perfect for enjoying the views and outdoor activities.
- Visit the Sandia Peak Tramway for panoramic views of the city
- Explore the historic town of Golden, with its preserved buildings and charming atmosphere
- Stop by the Mine Shaft Tavern in Madrid for a taste of the local culture
- Take a hike in the Cerrillos Hills State Park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
Town | Population | Attractions |
---|---|---|
Albuquerque | 559,277 | Turquoise Museum, Old Town Albuquerque |
Madrid | 247 | Mine Shaft Tavern, Madrid Old Coal Town Museum |
Cerrillos | 953 | Cerrillos Hills State Park, Casa Grande Trading Post & Petting Zoo |
The Turquoise Trail is a must-see for anyone exploring New Mexico. It offers history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you love outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or scenic views, this trail has it all.
Jemez Mountain Trail: Natural Wonders and Hot Springs
The Jemez Mountain Trail is a scenic byway in New Mexico. It offers natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. The trail is 163 miles long and goes through towns like Los Alamos and Jemez Springs.
As you drive, you’ll see the stunning jemez mountains. They have unique geologic formations and diverse wildlife. The trail is perfect for hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.
It also has natural hot springs for soaking. The Jemez River runs along the trail, offering scenic views and fishing spots.
Notable stops include the Valles Caldera National Preserve and Bandelier National Monument. You can also visit the Bradbury Science Museum in Los Alamos. The trail has pottery studios, galleries, and historic landmarks like Coronado State Monument.
Here are some top attractions and activities on the Jemez Mountain Trail:
- Hiking and biking trails with scenic views of the jemez mountains
- Soaking in natural hot springs and spas
- Fishing and kayaking in the Jemez River
- Visiting historic landmarks and cultural attractions
- Exploring private pottery studios and fine arts galleries
The Jemez Mountain Trail is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It offers stunning views, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. This trail will give you unforgettable memories of New Mexico landscapes.
Attraction | Location | Description |
---|---|---|
Valles Caldera National Preserve | Jemez Mountains | A scenic preserve with hiking trails and stunning views |
Bandelier National Monument | Los Alamos | A historic monument with ancient ruins and cultural attractions |
Jemez Pueblo | Jemez Springs | A cultural attraction with historic landmarks and traditional crafts |
Best Scenic Drives Near Albuquerque for Mountain Views
Albuquerque offers stunning mountain views for those who seek them. The scenic drives around the city show off New Mexico’s natural beauty. The Sandia Crest Scenic Byway is a favorite, taking you through the sandia crest mountains.
The east mountain backroads offer a rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience. They give you views of the surrounding landscape. For the bold, forest service roads let you explore the wilderness and find hidden spots. These roads are great for hiking, camping, and seeing wildlife, connecting you with nature.
- Stunning views of the Sandia Mountains
- Rugged beauty of the East Mountains
- Opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching on forest service roads
- Unique perspective on the natural beauty of New Mexico
Looking for a calm drive or an exciting adventure? Albuquerque’s scenic drives have it all. With their amazing mountain views and unique landscapes, these routes are a must-see for visitors.
Route 66 Adventures: Classic New Mexico Scenery
Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” is a famous highway. It stretches 2,448 miles across the United States, through New Mexico’s heart. This scenic byway mixes natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. It’s a top spot for anyone wanting to see New Mexico’s best landscapes.
On your Route 66 journey, you’ll see New Mexico’s varied landscapes. You’ll see high desert and majestic mountains. You can visit quirky shops, try local food, and enjoy the atmosphere of charming towns and villages.
Top attractions on Route 66 in New Mexico include the Petrified Forest National Park, the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, and the KiMo Theater in Albuquerque. Route 66 offers history, culture, and outdoor adventures. It’s perfect for a scenic drive or road trip through New Mexico landscapes.
- Gallup, New Mexico: Known for its vibrant arts scene and rich Native American heritage
- Albuquerque, New Mexico: Home to the KiMo Theater and a variety of quirky shops and galleries
- Tucumcari, New Mexico: Features the iconic Blue Swallow Motel and a range of other retro attractions
Stop | Description |
---|---|
Petrified Forest National Park | A 2-mile out-and-back hike leading to a solar-marker petroglyph |
Blue Swallow Motel | A historic motel built in 1939, featuring vintage decor and charm |
KiMo Theater | A historic theater built in 1927, hosting a variety of performances and events |
High Road to Taos: A Day Trip Worth Taking
The High Road to Taos is a scenic byway with stunning views. It offers cultural stops and outdoor adventures. This 105-mile journey goes through 10 villages and towns, each with its own charm.
Along the way, you’ll see historic churches and art galleries. There’s something for everyone on this route. You’ll pass through Ranchos de Taos, Peñasco, and Trampas, each with its own culture and history.
The scenic byways offer breathtaking views. You’ll see mountains and the Rio Grande. It’s a journey you won’t forget.
Some top attractions include:
- Visiting the 11 historic churches and religious sites
- Exploring the 6 museums and galleries, including the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the Canyon Road galleries
- Stopping in the riverside villages of Embudo, Dixon, Rinconada, and Pilar
- Discovering the vibrant art scene, with over 20 galleries and 10 museums
The High Road to Taos is a must-see for anyone visiting New Mexico. It has history, stunning views, and a vibrant culture. Whether you love history, art, or adventure, this high road to taos has it all.
Destination | Distance from Santa Fe | Drive Time |
---|---|---|
Taos | 105 miles | 2-1/2 hours |
Embudo | 45 miles | 1 hour |
Peñasco | 60 miles | 1-1/2 hours |
Desert and Valley Drives: Exploring the Rio Grande Valley
The Rio Grande Valley is a mix of natural beauty and cultural spots. It has stunning views, historic sites, and outdoor fun. For those wanting to see this area, scenic byways are a great choice. The rio grande valley is full of plants and animals, perfect for nature fans.
The desert drives in the Rio Grande Valley are amazing. It’s a mix of desert and scenic views, great for outdoor lovers. You can hike, camp, and see wildlife here. The scenic byways let you see the area’s beauty, with stunning desert and valleys.
There are many desert drives and scenic byways to explore in the Rio Grande Valley. Popular ones include the Abo Pass Trail and the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. These paths show off the area’s beauty and history. They’re perfect for a calm drive or an exciting trip.
Some top spots in the Rio Grande Valley include:
- Historic landmarks like the San Gregorio de Abó II church
- Scenic views like the Sandia Crest
- Outdoor fun like hiking and camping
- Wildlife watching, with many birds and animals
The Rio Grande Valley is perfect for outdoor explorers. It has natural beauty and cultural spots for everyone. Whether you want a calm drive or an adventure, the rio grande valley is a great visit.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities Along Scenic Routes
New Mexico is a great place for wildlife viewing. You can see birds and elk. The Sandía Mountains near Albuquerque are full of wildlife like elk and raccoons.
The Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge is a top spot for wildlife viewing. It’s in the South Valley, near downtown Albuquerque. Here, you can see American kestrels and egrets. The refuge has trails for wildlife viewing and fun outdoor adventures.
Some famous wildlife viewing spots in New Mexico are:
- Wildlife West Nature Park in Edgewood, which cares for 23 local species of native New Mexico wildlife
- Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, which provides opportunities to spot around 250 species of birds throughout the year
- Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge, which offers birding opportunities and sightings of native species
New Mexico is great for nature lovers. It has beautiful scenic routes and places to see wildlife. It’s the perfect place for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures.
Wildlife Refuge | Location | Trails |
---|---|---|
Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge | South Valley, 5 miles south of downtown Albuquerque | Pond Loop, Mural Loop, Bosque Loop |
Wildlife West Nature Park | Edgewood | Various trails |
Photography Tips for Capturing the Perfect Road Trip Moments
When you go on a road trip through New Mexico’s scenic byways, you want to capture the best moments. You’ll see amazing views and fun roadside stops. Here are some tips to help you take great photos:
- Shoot during the golden hour, when the light is soft and warm, to add depth and emotion to your photos.
- Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add visual interest to your shots.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things – it’s all part of the road trip experience.
New Mexico’s scenic byways have stunning views. From the Turquoise Trail to the High Road to Taos, you’ll find amazing spots. Follow these tips to keep your memories alive and take photos that will impress everyone.
For example, visit the Gateway to the West arch in St. Louis or the Route 66 museum in Clinton, Oklahoma. These places offer great photo chances. Also, don’t miss the beautiful landscapes and views along the way, like Oklahoma’s open spaces or Missouri and Texas’s rural areas.
Whether you’re a pro or just starting, these tips will help you capture amazing road trip moments. So, grab your camera and start taking pictures. With these tips and New Mexico’s beautiful scenery, you’ll make memories that last forever.
Location | Photography Tips |
---|---|
Turquoise Trail | Shoot during the golden hour, experiment with different angles |
High Road to Taos | Capture the stunning vistas, try new things |
Route 66 | Visit the Gateway to the West arch, Route 66 museum |
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey Through New Mexico’s Landscapes
As you end your drive through New Mexico’s landscapes, think about your amazing trip. You’ve seen the high Sandia Mountains and the magical Taos Pueblo. This state has shown you stunning views, rich culture, and fun outdoor activities.
Maybe you were amazed by the beautiful views on the scenic byways. Or maybe you enjoyed the lively communities you visited. New Mexico leaves a special mark on everyone. When you plan your next trip here, enjoy every moment and the many experiences waiting for you.