If you are looking for a scenic New Mexico road trip through the Land of Enchantment, look no further - we've got you covered. This road trip will take you through some of the most picturesque locations in northern New Mexico as you explore Sugarite Canyon State Park, Red River, Taos, Carson National Forest, Gallinas Peak, and other natural wonders in New Mexico on this 300-mile road trip west. So, gas up the car and grab your favorite snacks and drinks for the road - it's time to get a move on!
The total estimated driving time for this road trip through some of the finest New Mexico scenery is 7 hours and 6 minutes. If you choose to go on this adventure during the cold weather months, don't forget your winter packing essentials.
1. Sugarite Canyon State Park, Raton
Sugarite Canyon State Park can be found in northern New Mexico, near the Colorado border. This is the spot where you'll begin your scenic road trip through the Land of Enchantment.
The landscape in the park was shaped by ancient volcanic activity and its attendant lava flows. Today, you'll find beautiful ponderosa pine and gambel oak forests in the park. They make for a perfect, leg-stretching hike on this first stop of your trip. For the best views in the park, save time for a stop at scenic Lake Maloya.
2. Red River
Red River, New Mexico, is your next stop on the road trip.
In the winter, this resort town is the perfect destination for skiing or snowboarding at the resort. But it also makes for an ideal destination in the summer, as well, when you can explore the mountain and use the chairlifts to get around. You'll also find plenty of other exciting summertime activities in the area, including an aerial ropes course and zip lining. If you've never been to the ski resort in the summer, this may be your new favorite spot.
3. Taos
The third stop on your road trip through northern New Mexico is Taos.
Taos, which is located in the stunning Sangre de Cristo mountain range, is also a well known skiing destination. The Sangre de Cristos are so beautiful, no matter what time of year you visit, you will not be disappointed. In the summer, hiking, fishing, and hot air ballooning are popular, and we recommend seeking out one of Taos' hot springs whatever the season.
4. Carson National Forest
Time for some hiking! Carson National Forest has more than 70 beautiful hiking trails, many of which bring you to gorgeous mountain lakes. Our favorite hikes are the Trampas Lakes Trail and Williams Lake Trail, but you really can't go wrong exploring Carson National Forest.
5. Gallina Peak, Corona
The last stop on your road trip will be Gallina Peak, a small peak located near the town of Corona.
Although this may not be New Mexico's biggest peak, it is quite isolated, and a climb to the top will give you incredible views of the surrounding New Mexico landscape.
Although the total driving time for this scenic New Mexico road trip is only about seven hours, you should plan to spend at least a full day - or better yet, a weekend - exploring so you're not rushed and have all the time you need to see why they call our beautiful state the Land of Enchantment.
Have you been to any of these stops before? Which is your favorite and what stops would you add?
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