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The Enchanted Circle is the most popular tour in our area. This National Forest Scenic Byway circles Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico at 13,161 feet. Throughout the drive, you'll see some of the oldest rocks in the southwest - quartz and feldspar that date back two billion years. Look for special Enchanted Circle markers to help guide your way.
New Mexico has long been known as The Land of Enchantment, and it’s only fitting that this designated scenic byway be called the Enchanted circle. Explore the 83-mile loop through mountains, valleys, mesa, and national forest… all unique to north central New Mexico. The Enchanted Circle is centered around Wheeler Peak, the highest point in the state. Culture and outdoor recreation are abundant around the Enchanted Circle, so hit the road and get ready to discover what makes this region so spectacular.
The High Road is a 70-mile scenic back road from Taos to Santa Fe that passes through the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, into old Spanish villages, around rolling hillsides studded with orchards, and into tiny picturesque villages noted for weavers and wood-carvers. The fastest and most popular route between Taos and Santa Fe follows the Rio Grande Valley through Española. It's easy to take a full day for the drive, browsing in Chimayo shops, photographing the old churches, or hiking in the Pecos Wilderness. Special attractions: Carson National Forest, historic churches in Ranchos de Taos, Chimayo and Las Trampas, weavers in Chimayo, Indian pueblos, Pecos Wilderness, and Santa Fe.
