New Mexico is preparing for its fall foliage season, a time when the state’s diverse landscapes change into a spectrum of reds, oranges, and yellows. This period, situated between the warmth of summer and the cold of winter, provides a pleasant opportunity to see nature’s display, particularly in the central and northern mountains.
Jemez Mountains Scenic Drive
Take a drive through the Jemez Mountains, heading north on Highway 4. This road follows the Jemez River, passing Jemez Pueblo and Jemez Springs, where you will see many aspens with bright leaves against red rocks. You can relax at hot springs like Giggling Springs or The Jemez Springs Bath House, or see the unique Soda Dam.
Continue on Highway 4 into the Valles Caldera National Preserve, an area formed by a volcanic eruption a million years ago. This place is visually striking and serves as a habitat for wildlife, particularly elk. As you head back south toward Los Alamos, the place where atomic energy was developed, you might stop at the Los Alamos Nature Center or the Bradbury Science Center to learn about local history and science.
The Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway, also known as State Road 475, is a 15-mile loop that takes you from downtown Santa Fe into a wilderness area with abundant aspens. This route, starting near the historic Palace of the Governors, passes through Hyde Memorial Park, a great spot for picnics or camping, with numerous trails offering impressive views. As you go up toward the Santa Fe Ski Basin, look for the aspens, with leaves ranging from deep red to yellow.
Along the Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway, you will find upscale places to stay and eat, including Ten Thousand Waves, a Japanese-style hot springs resort, where you can relax and dine at Izanami Restaurant. For those interested in outdoor activities, the Express Quad chairlift at Ski Santa Fe begins operating on September 13th, offering rides through the colorful forest on weekends. Tickets can be reserved online starting September 1st.
The High Road to Taos Scenic Byway
The High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, a 56-mile route through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Carson National Forest, offers a stunning view of changing piñons and junipers against the backdrop of evergreen peaks. This route boasts a rich history and spiritual significance, offering opportunities to visit ancient pueblos, historic churches, and art galleries. Don’t miss Chimayo, a significant site known for its healing earth and the Santuario de Chimayo.
The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway connects Taos, Questa, Angel Fire, and Eagle Nest, offering many places to view the trees, including Cabresto Lake and Midnight Meadows. As you go around Wheeler Peak, New Mexico’s highest mountain, you will travel over land billions of years old, seeing a landscape filled with fall colors. Notice the contrast of recent burn areas where new growth appears among the colorful leaves.
Along the Enchanted Circle, visit places like the D.H. Lawrence memorial, the saloons and fish hatchery in Red River, and the Artesanos de Questa art co-op. The Taos Canyon, located between Angel Fire and Taos, is especially beautiful, featuring trails for hiking and biking through bright yellow aspens and various trees at lower elevations. Look for secluded lakes and spots for a unique experience.
Route 64
For a different kind of autumn trip, consider the U.S. 64 route from Taos to Chama, which goes through the Carson National Forest. This drive has little traffic in early fall, making it suitable for enjoying the colors and views of the Brazos Cliffs. Following rivers, you will find quiet spots and see the bright cottonwoods along the banks.
Along the Taos to Chama route, stops like the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, and Ghost Ranch offer historical and natural points of interest. Hopewell Lake Trailhead provides a serene setting among vibrant pines and firs. Further north on U.S. 84, Heron Lake and the San Juan River are excellent destinations for fly fishing and wildlife viewing, particularly in the autumn when bald eagles can be spotted in the sky.
The Sandia Crest Scenic Byway, accessible from I-40 near Tijeras, goes high into the Cibola National Forest. As you climb, the scenery changes from various trees to evergreen firs, ending at Sandia Peak, where you can see Albuquerque and the colorful area along the Rio Grande Bosque. The North Crest Trail offers a scenic hike through tall aspen groves, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Along the Sandia Crest route, small towns like Tijeras, Cedar Crest, and Sandia Park offer interesting stops. In Cedar Crest, Polk’s Folly Farm has local produce and meats, while Sandia Park has the Tinkertown Museum. The drive ends at Sandia Peak, where the Ten 3 restaurant offers dining with impressive views and a menu of food.
Corrales Offerings
The Village of Corrales, a quiet rural area north of Albuquerque, is especially nice in the fall. Its wooded area, with tall cottonwoods turning a bright yellow, is best seen by taking side roads off Corrales Road toward the Rio Grande. This area offers a stunning backdrop for a drive, showcasing the natural beauty of the community.
Corrales also has many local businesses for after your drive. Enjoy a craft beer at Ex Novo Brewery & Taproom or Casa Vieja, which has live music. For food, options include pizza at Village Pizza or more upscale dining at Indigo Crow Cafe. You can also explore the galleries and coffee shops along the village streets.
Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, located between Old Town and Alameda, offers a less-crowded but equally beautiful fall foliage experience. A drive down Rio Grande Boulevard shows a mix of mature cottonwoods, lacebark elms, Chinese pistache, and various fruit trees, creating a colorful autumn scene. This area is good for a relaxed afternoon drive close to home.
This historic area boasts some of Albuquerque’s finest restaurants, including Campo at Los Poblanos and Farm & Table, as well as cozy spots like Los Ranchos Bakery. For overnight stays, Los Poblanos Historic Inn offers lodging. Los Ranchos also has many antique shops to explore.
