The northern region of our state is full of some of the most beautiful sights in the Land of Enchantment. The beautiful mountains, striking forests, and majestic plateaus provide incredible scenery that is second to none in the Southwest. You can see all of this and more on one of the scenic drives in New Mexico. Trust us; you won’t want to miss out on one of these.
If you want to make the most of your time in the City Different, be sure to request access to our complimentary Vacation Guide! It’s full of the best things to do and places to see in our area.
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You Need to Travel These Incredible Scenic Drives in New Mexico
The Turquoise Trail
The Turquoise Trail is a great day trip from Santa Fe to Albuquerque, especially if you fly in and out of Albuquerque Sunport. There are three fantastic small town stops along the way that each have their own unique feel. The Sandia Peak tram overlooking New Mexico’s largest city provides excellent views.
Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway takes you on an incredible journey through the beautiful mountains surrounding Taos. NM 522, NM 38, and US 64 combine to form a loop around the Sangre de Cristo Mountains with several great places to stop and hike like Arroyo Hondo and Red River. Take in the gorgeous scenery of Bobcat Pass and the Moreno Valley during this sensational adventure.
Puye Cliffs Scenic Byway
Puye Cliffs Scenic Byway may only be an eight-mile trip, but the incredible views of the Jemez Mountains in the distance are incredible. Plus, you can get out and explore these ancient cliff dwellings.
Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway
The stunning Jemez Mountains sit northwest of Santa Fe and offer one of the best scenic drives in New Mexico. Head up through Los Alamos or White Rock to access roads like Highway 4 that weave and wind through deep gorgeous, Jemez Springs, and tons of hiking trails (some with hot springs at the end)!
Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway
The Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway is a 15-mile stretch of road that runs from the city up to the Santa Fe Ski Area in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Head up Hyde Park Road to enjoy a collage of aspens, evergreens, and a smattering of foliage in the fall.
High Road to Taos
If you want to enjoy one a fun day trip from Santa Fe, take the High Road to Taos. This byway is one of the best scenic drives in New Mexico and is full of beautiful sights and fascinating history. Stop in Chimayo to see the Santuario de Chimayo before heading to Taos to see the Saint Francis Plaza and the Taos Pueblo among other historical sites.
Book Your Four Kachinas Stay
Four Kachinas Inn offers visitors the ultimate stay in the City Different. Our Inn is only a short walk from the heart of town, making it the ideal place to be, especially if you want to make the most of Santa Fe Restaurant Week on foot. A beautiful collection of rooms featuring Southwestern accents highlights the Inn, giving you an authentic yet comfortable place to rest your head and savor delicious breakfasts every morning.
Start planning your visit today by booking one of our rooms! We look forward to welcoming you to Santa Fe.
