Santa Fe is surrounded by mountain ranges, historic villages, forests, and wide-open landscapes that make every road trip memorable. A short drive can lead you to centuries-old churches, colorful rock formations, alpine forests, and charming local communities.
If you’re looking to explore beyond the city, these routes showcase some of the region’s most beautiful scenery. The following scenic drives near Santa Fe offer a mix of natural beauty, history, and opportunities to experience northern New Mexico at your own pace.
High Road to Taos
The High Road to Taos is one of New Mexico’s most famous driving routes. Stretching roughly 75 miles, this scenic journey follows winding mountain roads through small villages, aspen groves, and historic churches before reaching Taos.
Unlike faster highways, this route encourages travelers to slow down and appreciate local culture. Along the way, you’ll discover artisan galleries, traditional adobe communities, and panoramic overlooks that highlight the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Must-See Stops Along the Route
Several destinations make this drive especially rewarding.
- Chimayó – Visit El Santuario de Chimayó, one of the state’s most significant historic churches.
- Truchas – Enjoy sweeping mountain views from one of northern New Mexico’s highest villages.
- Las Trampas – Stop to admire the San José de Gracia Church, a National Historic Landmark dating back to the 1700s.
- Ranchos de Taos – Explore the iconic San Francisco de Asís Mission Church before arriving in Taos.
Plan extra time for local shops, art studios, and scenic pullouts throughout the drive.
Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway
Running between Santa Fe and Albuquerque, the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway combines mountain scenery with fascinating mining history.
The route passes through the historic towns of Madrid, Cerrillos, and Golden, each offering unique galleries, museums, and locally owned businesses. Madrid has become especially popular for its creative community, colorful storefronts, and seasonal events.
The drive also features excellent views of the Ortiz Mountains and rolling high desert landscapes. Since the byway connects two of New Mexico’s largest cities, it’s easy to enjoy as a half-day or full-day adventure.
Santa Fe Scenic Byway
For travelers who want beautiful scenery without venturing far from town, the Santa Fe Scenic Byway offers an excellent option. The route loops through the Santa Fe National Forest and follows portions of Hyde Park Road toward the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
As the elevation increases, you’ll pass pine forests, mountain meadows, and overlooks with expansive views back toward the city. During autumn, golden aspens transform the landscape into one of northern New Mexico’s most photographed destinations.
This drive also provides access to several hiking trails, picnic areas, and outdoor recreation spots, making it one of the best things to do in Santa Fe for visitors who enjoy spending time in nature.
Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway
The Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway delivers dramatic volcanic landscapes, red rock cliffs, mountain forests, and natural hot springs. The route travels through Jemez Springs, Valles Caldera National Preserve, and portions of the Santa Fe National Forest.
Along the drive, you’ll find opportunities to stop at waterfalls, hiking trails, historic sites, and scenic overlooks. The variety of landscapes makes this one of New Mexico’s most diverse road trips. Many visitors combine the drive with a stop at Jemez Historic Site or Spence Hot Springs for an even more memorable day.
Plan Your Visit
Plan a scenic drive through Santa Fe and book today!
Final Thoughts
Northern New Mexico offers unforgettable road trips for travelers looking to experience mountain landscapes, historic communities, and breathtaking overlooks. The High Road to Taos, Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, Santa Fe Scenic Byway, and Jemez Mountain Trail each provide a different perspective on the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
After a day of exploring, returning to comfortable accommodations makes the experience even more enjoyable. Booking one of our Santa Fe vacation rentals gives you convenient access to these scenic routes while placing you close to the city’s art galleries, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures.
Book Your Santa Fe Vacation Rental with Casas de Santa Fe
At Casas de Santa Fe, we offer thoughtfully appointed vacation homes that make it easy to experience the best of northern New Mexico. Our collection of properties places you near downtown Santa Fe while providing convenient access to the area’s most popular scenic drives, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation.
From weekend getaways to extended stays, our team is committed to helping you find the perfect home for your visit. Browse our available rentals today and begin planning your Santa Fe adventure.
