Most people think of the Northeast United States as the go-to spot for Fall Foliage roadtrips. But Northern New Mexico offers a southwestern experience to view the deep reds, oranges, and golds of autumn.
The high elevations in the Taos and Taos Ski Valley areas are the ideal environment for the pine trees and deciduous aspen, oak, and maple that lend their colors to the fall landscape.
With air temperatures lowering into the 40s at night, but sunny days still giving plenty of warmth to the air, Fall is a beautiful time to visit Taos. If you’re hoping to glimpse fall foliage, this is an enchanting alternative to Maine or New Hampshire.
Here’s our guide to viewing beautiful fall colors from scenic drives in Northern New Mexico.
Scenic Byways
One of the best ways to view fall colors is from the road on a scenic drive, and there are several options that start in Taos or within reasonable driving distance. There’s nothing better than picking up hot coffee and snacks at [insert name of local cafe in taos here] and hitting the road with your camera ready to capture all oranges and reds your heart could desire.
The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
The most easily accessible scenic byway in the region is the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway. This 84 miles route starts and ends in Taos and is full of breathtaking scenery at every turn. The route winds through mountains, valleys, and vibrant forests, offering countless opportunities to witness the stunning fall foliage.
Beginning in Taos, head north toward Questa where the aspen transform into golden and vibrant yellow colors. The mountainous air and quiet landscapes are perfect for a reflective, midmorning pit stop.
Continuing along the byway, you’ll reach Red River, previously a mining town turned ski slopes and outdoor recreational hub. Here, you’ll be surrounded by tall pine trees and deciduous trees adorned with golden and rust-colored leaves. Take a moment to stroll through the town or have a picnic by the Red River as you soak in the beauty of the season.
As you approach Eagle Nest and Angel Fire, the scenery transitions with a mix of aspens, maples, and oaks, creating a tapestry of red, orange, and yellow hues. The small towns like Arroyo Seco offer cozy cafes and shops to explore, allowing you to take a break and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Make sure to plan for ample time on your drive, as you’ll want to stop frequently to capture photos. If you don’t make any stops (which is highly unlikely!), the drive can be completed in about 2.5 hours.
The High Road to Taos Scenic Byway
If you’re looking for a longer drive from Taos and Taos Ski Valley that takes you deeper into the heart of New Mexico, the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway is a must. This 2.5 hour trip from Taos alongside the Rio Grande River to Santa Fe winds through the Carson National Forest, US Hill pullout (State Road 518), views of Wheeler Peak, the historic Old Spain section of New Mexico, and countless villages full of history and charm.
The fall foliage is a sight to behold along the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway. As you make your way through the Carson National Forest, the vibrant colors of the aspens, oaks, and cottonwoods will surround you, creating a picturesque autumn landscape.
Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway
Once you’ve made it to historic Santa Fe, then you naturally should finish out the drive on the Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway. This scenic route is only 16 miles long and takes you through the majestic Santa Fe National Forest, offering incredible views of the changing colors.
As you drive through the forest, you’ll be surrounded by a stunning display of vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows. The forest is home to a variety of tree species, including aspens, oaks, and cottonwoods, which all contribute to the rich tapestry of autumn colors.
Consider making stops along the way to explore the various hiking trails and scenic overlooks. One popular destination within the Santa Fe National Forest is the Aspen Vista Picnic Grounds and Trail. This trail offers a moderate hike that takes you through groves of aspen trees, providing a truly immersive fall foliage experience.
U.S. 64 Taos to Chama
Embarking on a journey across the Carson National Forest along U.S. 64, from Taos to Chama, through Tres Piedras and Tierra Amarilla, promises an exciting adventure throughout the year. The drive from Taos to Chama comes in around 4 hours round trip (if you make no stops). The beginning of autumn is the perfect time to go, as the air is brisk, the colors of the foliage are simply breathtaking, and traffic is minimal.
Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at the awe-inspiring Brazos Cliffs during your drive. Remember to take ample breaks and allocate an entire day for this unforgettable experience.
Sandia Crest Scenic Byway
We’re including the Sandia Crest Scenic Byway to this list in the case that you want to explore the Albuquerque region while in New Mexico. This route is unique because it is officially the highest scenic byway in the Southwest. It is one mile above the surrounding landscape and offers incredible views of the Cibola National Forest and craggy geography of the region.
During fall, the leaves showcase vibrant colors and some say it is the prettiest of the region’s autumn foliage tours.
