Some of the best scenery in New Mexico is found in the middle of nowhere. However, there are also inhabited places where you're confronted by breathtaking views, no matter which way you turn. So, if you're up for a road trip, consider heading to one of these 10 scenic small towns in New Mexico to admire the spectacular landscapes surrounding them.
1. Arroyo Hondo, population 474
This tiny town near Taos is sandwiched between the mountains and the Rio Grande Gorge.
2. Cloudcroft, population 674
The old Mexican Canyon trestle bridge is almost as picturesque as the scenery around it. Cloudcroft is located in the Lincoln National Forest, near Alamogordo.
3. Chama, population 1022
A great way to take in the scenery around Chama is to ride the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad.
4. Glenwood, population 143
This town may be teeny but it’s tucked inside the Gila National Forest, adjacent to the Gila Wilderness – the biggest designated wilderness area in the state. The Gila Wilderness consists of 871 square miles of rugged, unspoiled land.
5. Shiprock, population 8295
The volcanic neck known as Shiprock or "The Winged Rock" is a striking presence on the horizon, near the town of the same name.
6. Capitan, population 1489
Although this town is best known as the place where Smokey Bear was rescued, it also has some wonderful scenery.
7. Eagle Nest, population 290
The town of Eagle Nest is part of a scenic drive called The Enchanted Circle. The route more than lives up to its name, and the meadows surrounding Eagle Nest are particularly memorable. Added bonus: the buildings in town have a fun Wild West feel.
8. Corrales, population 8329
Corrales offers a little of everything: a river, farmland, and a cottonwood forest – all stretching out against the backdrop of the Sandia Mountains.
9. Quemado, population 228
Quemado in Catron County is known as the site of Walter De Maria’s art installation called "The Lightning Field." But the area’s natural beauty is equal to any manmade wonders in the town.
10. Jemez Springs, population 250
The red rocks surrounding Jemez Springs are astounding.
Have you been to any of these places? Which other towns do you visit when you're craving stunning views? Once you're done visiting these lovely small towns, consider checking out some of the other natural wonders in New Mexico that make up the state's beautiful landscapes.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!