An 84-mile byway circling Wheeler Peak, the Enchanted Circle showcases the best of New Mexico’s unique heritage and picturesque landscapes. Along the way, you’ll traverse valleys, mesas, mountains, national forests, and some of the state’s most culturally rich towns and villages.
How long does it take to drive around the Enchanted Circle?
about 2.5 hours
How Long Does It Take to Drive the Enchanted Circle? Obviously, this depends on how many stops you make on your drive around the circle, but based upon prior guests’ experiences, the average for the drive is about 2.5 hours with brief stops to explore and for pictures.
What is the Enchanted Circle in Taos?
ABOUT ENCHANTED CIRCLE
The Enchanted Circle is centered around Wheeler Peak at 13,159 feet, 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 captivating.
Where is Enchanted Circle Drive?
Taos
The byway features wonderful hiking and camping places, beautiful, high alpine scenery, skiing and fishing. The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, twelve miles northwest of Taos on US 64, is a must-see side trip! The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway has a taste of everything that’s New Mexico.
Where should I stay for the Enchanted Circle?
Where to stay near Enchanted Circle Gateway Museum?
- Super 8 by Wyndham Taos. 2 out of 5.
- Mountain View Lodge. 3.5 out of 5.
- El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa. 4 out of 5.
- Sagebrush Inn & Suites. 3 out of 5.
- El Pueblo Lodge.
- Taos Valley Lodge.
- Hotel Don Fernando de Taos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.
- The Historic Taos Inn.
What is the most scenic drive in New Mexico?
Here are the top 5 scenic drives you have to take in New Mexico:
- Billy the Kid Scenic Byway. If you’re a fan of the wild west, then this 84-mile scenic drive is the one for you.
- Sunspot Scenic Byway.
- Jemez Mountain Trail Scenic Byway.
- Route 66 National Scenic Byway.
- Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway.
Is Taos NM worth visiting?
The diversity of things to do in Taos is incredible. It’s home to the famed cultural heritage sites, and it’s long been a mecca for artists and creatives from around the world, all coming in search of the majestic beauty and spiritual heritage of this place.
What is the High Road to Taos from Santa Fe?
One of the most beautiful and interesting road trips through New Mexico is the 56-mile drive north from Santa Fe to Taos. This stretch, called the High Road to Taos, is an official scenic byway and provides a glimpse into the historic remains –buildings, stories, art and preserved culture – of Old Spain.
How far is the fire from Red River New Mexico?
Distance conversions
| Distance type | Miles | Kilometers |
|---|---|---|
| Straight line distance | 22.78 mi | 36.66 km |
| Driving distance | 29 mi | 46.98 km |
Is New Mexico Enchanted?
The state motto
In 1935, New Mexico’s Tourist Bureau described the state as “the Land of Enchantment” in one of its brochures in an effort to attract visitors to the area. In 1941, the legend was added to license plates and came into common usage soon thereafter.
How do you get to the enchanted circle?
Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
- Distance: 84 miles/136 KM.
- Driving Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours.
- Route: From Taos Plaza, Hwy. 64 north to Hwy. 522 north to Questa; Hwy. 38 east to Red River, then south to Eagle Nest and Angel Fire; Hwy. 64 west to Taos.
What towns are on the Enchanted Circle New Mexico?
Towns and Must-See Attractions
- Taos. The Taos Pueblo has been around for more than 1,000 years, and though the town has evolved over the centuries, it has remained true to its roots.
- Angel Fire.
- Arroyo Seco.
- Questa.
- Red River.
- Eagle Nest.
- Stretch Your Legs.
- Be Spontaneous.
How many days should you stay in Santa Fe?
Three days isn’t enough time to get the full experience of this area. If you’re thinking of coming to Santa Fe, I would recommend trying to schedule in at least four or five days so that you can enjoy an easy pace and have a wider variety of experiences.
Is New Mexico Scenic?
Tucked in southwestern New Mexico, Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway winds through some of the most spectacular wilderness areas in the state. Along the drive, you’ll have views of the high desert plains and sweeping mountain vistas of the Gila National Forest.
Where is the view in Albuquerque?
Sandia Crest Trail Byway
After stopping at points along the crest road, visit Sandia Crest for its incredible view of Albuquerque and the Cibola Forest.
How many colleges are in New Mexico?
There are 18 colleges in New Mexico, four of which are graduate schools, and one is tribal. The rest are either private or public 4-year institutions. The oldest is the New Mexico State College, while the most selective is the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology.
Why is Taos so popular?
Taos has been attracting artists since the turn of the last century for its scenery, incredible light and laid-back vibe, and it has more art museums and art galleries than most cities its size. The Harwood Museum of Art, housed in a 1916 Pueblo-style building, focuses on contemporary art and traditional Hispanic art.
Why is Taos famous?
Taos: culture, tradition, adventure.
Long one of America’s foremost, bona fide Art Colonies, Taos is also home to a world-class ski resort (Taos Ski Valley), a World Heritage Site (Taos Pueblo), one of the most photographed and iconic churches (St.
Why is Taos Pueblo still closed?
Please note: due to the pandemic, Taos Pueblo is currently CLOSED until further notice. While some Native communities have reopened their casinos, rest stops, recreation areas, and other sites to the public, the communities themselves may remain closed due to COVID-19.
What is the best time of year to visit Santa Fe New Mexico?
The best time to visit Santa Fe is between September and November. During this time, temperatures range from the high 20s to high 70s. One can argue that springtime has a similar climate with similar hotel rates, but the festivals make fall the clear winner.
Which is better High road or Low road to Taos?
Of the two main routes from Santa Fe to Taos, the High Road is definitely more scenic. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful views of hoodoos in the Badlands, mountains in the distance, and Carson National Forest.