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Enchanting New Mexico

Enchanting New Mexico

Taos Santa Fe Albuquerque Carlsbad Las Cruces Truth or Consequences
Trip length8-12 days
Route distance698 mi
Stops6
Customize this tripFree account · edit dates, stops & pace

Trip overview

New Mexico is nicknamed the “Land of Enchantment,” and if you’re lucky enough to visit, you’ll understand why. The state can be most easily described by its unique geographic and cultural attractions. From the snowy mountains giving way to ancient adobe rock dwellings to the oldest winemaking traditions in the US, New Mexico has something for everyone. Although New Mexico has various climates, during the summer, be prepared for plus-100 temperatures. In the winter, temperatures will fall to 40 degrees, even cooler with chances of snowfall in northern New Mexico. The most temperate time to visit New Mexico is in the fall and the spring.

Who will love this trip
Everyone – there are many things to enjoy about New Mexico, and each destination has its own range of activities. New Mexico is a popular destination for adults, seniors, families, and young adults.

Trip tips

  • Prepare for Quick Changing Weather at Sandia Peak: Keep in mind that you will be at high altitudes at the tramway in Albuquerque, so the weather changes quickly. Be prepared for colder weather by bringing a light jacket!

  • Beware of Heights in Taos: The Rio Grande Gorge is extremely deep and is not recommended for people with fear of heights. Also be careful, aside from the bridge itself, it is surrounded by barbed wire and fencing so watch your footing.

  • Plan for Chaos at Meow Wolf Santa Fe: Although the artsy lights at Meow Wolf are a cool and fun activity, be aware if you are sensitive to flashing lights or loud noises. It's also easy to lose people because of the darkness, so try to have an alternative place to meet if someone gets lost.

  • Prepare for the Distance of Canyon Road Santa Fe: The online information says Canyon Road is only a half mile, but it is actually closer to a mile. Be sure to plan out the walk accordingly to the longer distance.

  • Arrival at Carlsbad Caverns: Try to get to the Caverns when it first opens or as close as you can to it. Also it’s recommended to walk in the Natural Entrance and do that trail first and take the elevator back out.

  • Possible Droughts in Truth or Consequences: This little town is known for its hot springs, but they recently have been experiencing droughts and potentially could get their water shut off. Check the news on Truth or Consequences before going so you can plan accordingly.

  • Prepare for High Crime in Albuquerque: To avoid crime, try and stay away from Southeast Heights and War Zone areas. Also be cautious going downtown at night.

Your route

Route map: Enchanting New Mexico
1Taos2Santa Fe3Albuquerque4Carlsbad5Las Cruces6Truth or Consequences
1
Stop 1 1-2 day stay

Taos, NM

Taos, NM

If you’re looking for a step back in history, tons of outdoor activities, world-class skiing, and a vibrant arts and culture scene, you’ve found your match in Taos. With the 1000+ year history of Taos Pueblo, Wheeler Peek (the tallest mountain in New Mexico), mineral hot springs, old churches, museums, and skiing (in the winter), you’ll have plenty to do in Taos that will please the more and less active visitors. Let AdventureGenie help you plan a great RV trip to Taos.

Top things to do

Here are some "must-dos" during your trip to Taos:

1
Enchanted Circle Scenic DriveThis 83-mile loop will take you through the National Forest Scenic Byway as you circle around Wheeler Peak, towering 13,161 feet above you. Ancient quartz and feldspar (over two billion years old) are found throughout the drive, as well as luscious valleys, mesas, and forests untouched by humans. Follow the Enchanted Circle markers for the most straightforward drive.
2
Taos PuebloVisit the only living Native American community that is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. More than 150 people still live in these multi-storied adobe buildings, which have been inhabited for over 1,000 years.
3
Rio Grande Gorge BridgeThis bridge is 11 miles from Taos and is one of the highest bridges in the US, towering 600 feet above the Rio Grande. If you’re visiting from Taos, drive across the bridge and stop at the rest stop, where you can get a great view of the bridge and the gorge below. You can also park and walk across.
4
San Francisco de Asis ChurchThis 200-year-old Spanish colonial church is made completely out of adobe. It’s a National Historic Landmark, and it’s still a working church. Every year in June, you can join others to give an extra coat of mud and straw to keep the structure standing for years to come.
5
Taos Art MuseumA combination of art and architecture makes the former home of artist Nicoli Fechin the perfect place to explore the work of local artists.
6
Ojo Caliente Mineral SpringsRelax and unwind at the hot springs spa. Enjoy fine dining in the historic hotel.
7
Mica Mine HikeThis 4-mile hike up a dirt path will take you above Ojo Caliente to an abandoned mica mine, complete with remnants of sparkling mica.
8
Taos Ski ValleyThis ski hill is a sure bet for skiers and snowboarders in the winter. During the summer, you can enjoy views of the mountains, hikes, mountain biking, and frequent events.

Taos, NM activities

HikingBikingKayaking, Canoeing, & PaddlingFishingRaftingWildlife ViewingHistory ToursMuseumsATVHorseback RidingWinter SportsScenic Drives

RV campgrounds near Taos, NM

There are many public and private campsites in and around Taos. Many of the public campsites are dispersed camping with no hookups. One of America's top-rated RV resorts, Agnel Fire RV Resort is located 40 miles east of Taos in Angel Fire, New Mexico (it also offers hotel rooms and vacation rentals on site). Carson National Forest is a good public option, although be aware there are no hookups. Take the guesswork out and let AdventureGenie help you find the perfect campground for you near Taos!

Next stop: Santa Fe
2
Stop 2 1-3 day stay

Santa Fe, NM

Santa Fe, NM

History and culture aren’t just a part of Santa Fe — they’re a way of life. With over a dozen museums and hundreds of galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, Santa Fe is a fusion of its 400+ year history with the present. It’s the country’s oldest state capital with numerous historical, artistic, and natural attractions sure to fascinate anyone.

Top things to do

Here are some popular things to see and do during your trip to Santa Fe:

1
Puye Cliff DwellingsThis National Historic Landmark is a step into the lives of ancient Santa Clara Pueblo people. You can explore the cliff and cave dwellings, early architecture, and an original Harvey House (i.e., a late 1800s hotel and hospitality chain that built near railroads in the American West) all while taking in the sweeping views of the valley.
2
Museum HillHistory and art lovers will be able to spend hours, if not days, visiting over a dozen museums in Santa Fe. Museum Hill has four in close proximity, plus breathtaking views of the city. Visit the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, and International Folk Art Museum. And just a few steps away is the Santa Fe Botanical Garden
3
Santa Fe BreweriesNew Mexico has over 80 breweries throughout the state and visiting one of the many lively beer gardens in Santa Fe is a great way to experience the innovation of the brew masters.
4
Canyon Road Arts DistrictWant to visit galleries, shop at local boutiques, and find your next favorite restaurant? Then, this half mile is where to go. Featuring artwork from local and international artists, Canyon Road has an established reputation in the industry – plus some great eateries!
5
Nambe Lake TrailThis challenging 6.7-mile trek through the mountains and trees of Santa Fe National Forest ends with an alpine lake. The temperature can change rapidly in the mountains, so only attempt this hike if you regularly hike and have enough food, water, and clothing to withstand inclement weather and changes of plans.

Santa Fe, NM activities

HikingBikingWildlife ViewingHistory ToursATVHorseback RidingSkiingMuseumsHistory Tours

RV campgrounds near Santa Fe, NM

There are numerous public and private campsites in and around Santa Fe. Hyde Memorial State Park is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts, with developed and undeveloped campsites and an RV dump station. Be sure to book well in advance. Black Canyon Campground in the Santa Fe National Forest also has 36 sites for RVs. However, there are no hookups. Let AdventureGenie help you find the perfect campground to explore Santa Fe!

Next stop: Albuquerque
3
Stop 3 1-2 day stay

Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque, NM

With ancient history, skiable mountains, authentic art, diverse foods, world-class museums, and great golf courses, Albuquerque is one of the most vibrant cities around. While the city is magical year-round, the International Balloon Fiesta during the first two weeks in October makes New Mexico’s biggest city even more enticing. Let AdventureGenie help you plan your RV trip to Albuquerque!

Top things to do

Here are a few of the many things you can do in Albuquerque:

1
Sandia Peak TramwayThe third longest tramway in the world takes you to the top of Sandia Peak, where you’ll be able to enjoy sweeping views of Albuquerque and the surrounding landscape. It’s also a great way to access numerous hiking trails and skiing in the winter.
2
Albuquerque International Balloon FiestaIf you’re in New Mexico in October, you don’t want to miss this festival that fills up the sky with all sizes and shapes of hot air balloons for nine days.
3
Indian Pueblo Cultural CenterLooking to deepen your knowledge of the history of the original people of Albuquerque? You’ll learn about the costumes, art, and farming of the Pueblo Indians here.
4
New Mexico Museum of Natural History and ScienceThis museum, located near Old Town, tells the story of our world from the big bang and dinosaurs to microcomputers and modern discoveries. There are numerous exhibits, a Planetarium, and a Naturalist Center.
5
Old TownExplore over one hundred shops, galleries, restaurants, and museums in Old Town Albuquerque, founded in 1706. The adobe buildings and the large sugar pine beams make you feel like you’re stepping through time. This area is an art lover’s dream!

Albuquerque, NM activities

HikingBikingPaddlingFishingRaftingWildlifeHistory ToursATVHorseback RidingSkiingMuseumsHistory ToursGolf

RV campgrounds near Albuquerque, NM

There are many private and public campsites in and around Albuquerque. Most of the public campgrounds in central New Mexico are at least a half-hour drive from Albuquerque city center. Manzano Mountain State Park is 40 miles from Albuquerque, but it’s a great place to relax, has a dump station, and sites must be booked in advance. Let AdventureGenie help you discover more campsites in and around Albuquerque.

Next stop: Carlsbad
4
Stop 4 1-2 day stay

Carlsbad, NM

Carlsbad, NM

The sunny town of Carlsbad is surrounded by nature – the Pecos River winds through the tree-lined city, making the “Pearl on the Pecos” an oasis in the Chihuahuan Desert. Many people come to the area to see the awe-inspiring Carlsbad Caverns National Park, but the town itself has many outdoor, history, art, and culture attractions. And with 350 days of sunshine a year, you almost never have to worry about bad weather.

Top things to do

Here are some of the most popular things to experience in Carlsbad:

1
Carlsbad Caverns National ParkThis 1.25-mile route through some of the 100s of caves in the area will take you through giant icicle stalactites and massive cave rooms. As one of the world's most accessible cave systems, it offers a lot of diversity and history. Once you’ve toured the caves, there are more places to explore in the park, as well as hiking trails.
2
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State ParkThis outdoor park gives you a glimpse of the wildlife and nature in the area, with over 40 different animal species and hundreds of native plants. It’s a great place to hike and picnic as well.
3
The Carlsbad Museum & Arts CenterIf you want to learn more about the history of the area, look no further than this free museum with Native American pottery and ancient Mongolian, Anasazi, and Mesa Verde artifacts. You can also enjoy the rotating New Mexican artists’ displays.

Carlsbad, NM activities

HikingBikingCanoeing, Kayaking & PaddlingFishingRaftingWildlifeHistory ToursATVHorseback RidingSkiing & Winter SportsMuseumsHistory ToursSwimmingGolf

RV campgrounds near Carlsbad, NM

There are public and private campground options in and around Carlsbad. If you are looking to stay near Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you'll need to book well in advance. There are no overnight camping facilities in Carlsbad National Park. Nearby Guadalupe Mountain National Park also has campsites but no amenities. Take the guesswork out of finding a campground near Carlsbad, New Mexico, and let AdventureGenie help!

Next stop: Las Cruces
5
Stop 5 1-2 day stay

Las Cruces, NM

Las Cruces, NM

The town of Las Cruces is full of outdoor activities, annual festivals, art galleries, museums, and performing arts that are made all the more majestic by the towering Organ Mountain. Plus nearby White Sand Dunes National Monument is a fossil enthusiast’s paradise. Las Cruces was ranked as the third best value in travel destinations in the U.S. in 2019. You’ll love to stroll through the adobe-style buildings, twice weekly farmers and crafts market, and mission-inspired architecture.

Top things to do

If you’re lucky enough to take a road trip through this vibrant historic southwest city, here are some of your must-sees:

1
Las Cruces Farmers & Crafts MarketConsidered one of the best farmers markets in the country, you’ll enjoy strolling the rows of souvenirs, handmade items, and farm fresh food and produce between sunrise and the afternoon every Wednesday and Saturday.
2
Old MesillaThis old settlement just south of Las Cruces is best known as the place where the infamous Billy the Kid was captured and convicted for his crimes. You can tour the Old Courthouse and Jail, where it all went down, as well as enjoy traditional New Mexican food, old, haunted buildings, and handmade artifacts made by the locals.
3
La Vina WineryThe hot sunny weather in and around Las Cruces is ideal for growing grapes, and that is confirmed by the many wineries around the city. La Vina Winery is the perfect place to taste New Mexican wine or enjoy the yearly wine festival held every October.
4
White Sands National MonumentJust 45 minutes from Las Cruces is the world’s largest accumulation of Ice-Age fossilized footprints, telling an over 20,000-year-old story of human history in the area. The area is now protected and is a great place to explore, and surf down or picnic by the ancient dunes.
5
The Walk of FlameSpicy food lovers, this trail of restaurants is for you. Las Cruces is famous for its green chilies, and you can enjoy all sorts of traditional New Mexican dishes and innovative concoctions like green chili martinis. You’ll also learn about the history of chili production in the area.
6
Pine Tree TrailFor a close-up view of the mountains surrounding Las Cruces, this 4.5-mile hike starts just 35 minutes away from town. The loop is considered moderate and is safe for kids and dogs.

Las Cruces, NM activities

HikingBikingCanoeing, Kayaking & PaddlingFishingWildlifeHistory ToursMuseumsATVHorseback RidingSwimmingGolfSkiing & Winter Sports

RV campgrounds near Las Cruces, NM

Las Cruces has several private campgrounds. Aquiree Spring Recreation Area and Campground and Leasburg Dam State Park are a short drive from Las Cruces. Nearby White's, New Mexico, also has campgrounds and services. Let AdventureGenie help you find a perfect campground near Las Cruces, New Mexico!

Next stop: Truth or Consequences
6
Stop 6 1-2 day stay

Truth or Consequences, NM

Truth or Consequences, NM

Truth or Consequences used to be known simply as Hot Springs, an apt name considering the numerous natural geothermal pools and spas in and around the town. The name was changed decades ago to win a prize on a popular TV game show of the same name. Today, the desert town in New Mexico is known for its eco-tourism, spaceport, and hot springs. “T or C”, as the locals call it, is an eclectic mix of small-towners and billionaires just over two hours south of Albuquerque.

Top things to do

Here are some of the most popular places to experience during your stop in Truth or Consequences:

1
Spaceport AmericaIf you’re looking to learn more about space, the spaceport grounds tours will give you a glimpse into the science of commercial aerospace travel. You have to book in advance to see inside the hangar, where you will learn more about space innovation and famous company launches like SpaceX.
2
Geronimo Springs MuseumThis history museum tells the story of the multiple cultures and thousands of years of history of T or C. From mining cabins and old Hispanic art to Apache artifacts and ancient fossils, this museum is a must-see for any history lover.
3
La Paloma Hot Springs & SpaThere are plenty of different hot springs to enjoy in T or C, but La Paloma is an almost 100-years-old one with 13 hot springs with gravel bottoms where the water seeps in naturally.
4
Truth or Consequences Brewing Co.After a day of soaking in the hot springs, hiking in the parks, or just getting a feel for T or C, make sure you check out the best craft brewery in town with innovative beer cocktails and refreshing beers.

Truth or Consequences, NM activities

HikingBikingKayaking, Canoeing, & PaddlingFishingRaftingWildlife ViewingHistory ToursATVHorseback RidingSkiing & Winter SportsMuseumsHistory ToursSwimmingGolfSpas & Hot Springs

RV campgrounds near Truth or Consequences, NM

There are several public and private campground options to stay in to explore Truth or Consequences. Located 20 minutes south of T or C, Caballo Lake State Park has electricity and water, and should be booked well in advance. Located just a few miles down the highway, Percha Dam State Park also has RV hookups. Let AdventureGenie help you find a great camping spot near Truth or Consequences, New Mexico!

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