Top Scenic Drives Around Santa Fe for Stunning Desert Views

Santa Fe is like a treasure chest for road trippers. The high desert landscape stretches out in every direction. Red rocks, tall mountains, and wide-open skies create perfect views at every turn. Whether you love taking photos or just enjoy beautiful drives, this area has something special waiting for you.

New Mexico’s unique landscape tells stories from long ago. Ancient pueblos sit next to modern art galleries. Snow-capped peaks rise above desert valleys. And the sunsets here paint the sky in colors you won’t see anywhere else.

Each scenic drive near Santa Fe offers its own adventure. Some take you through historic villages where people still make art by hand. Others climb high into mountain forests where golden aspen trees glow in fall. The best part? Every route rewards drivers with views that make the journey just as exciting as the destination.

Ready to hit the road? Here are the best scenic drives near Santa Fe so you can start planning your next adventure!

Best Scenic Drives Near Santa Fe

1. The High Road to Taos – A Journey Through Art and History

The High Road to Taos is a famous 56-mile route that winds through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, connecting Santa Fe to Taos. The drive takes you up high where the air is thin and the views stretch for miles. Along the way, small adobe villages dot the landscape like scenes from a history book.

Why It’s Worth the Drive

• Wind through mountains with incredible high-elevation views
• Stop at Chimayó to see the famous Santuario de Chimayó and local weaving studios
• Explore quiet adobe villages like Truchas and Las Trampas filled with local artists
• Visit historic churches that have stood for hundreds of years

Best for: History lovers, photographers, and art fans who want scenic beauty mixed with cultural stops.

Driving tips: The roads can be curvy and steep in some places. Give yourself extra time to stop and explore the villages along the way.

2. The Turquoise Trail – A Scenic Byway with Old West Charm

The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway is a  50-mile route along Highway 14 that connects Santa Fe and Albuquerque through old mining towns and rolling desert hills. The drive shows off New Mexico’s mining history while treating you to wide desert views.

Why It’s Worth the Drive

• Stop at Madrid, an old ghost town that’s now filled with art shops and cafes
• Drive through rolling desert hills with views of the Sandia Mountains
• Visit Cerrillos Hills State Park for short hikes and old mining sites
• See how the Old West mixed with modern art in these small towns

Best for: Easy-going road trippers who love Old West history mixed with beautiful landscapes.

Driving tips: Slow down when you drive through Madrid. It’s a small town with lots of people walking around.

3. The Enchanted Circle – A Loop Through New Mexico’s Mountain Beauty

This 84-mile loop starts from Taos and takes you through high mountain areas, alpine lakes, and green valleys. The entire drive through Enchanted Circle is above 7,000 feet, so the air stays cool even in summer.

Why It’s Worth the Drive

• See Wheeler Peak, the highest mountain in New Mexico at 13,161 feet
• Stop at Red River, a charming ski town, and Eagle Nest Lake for great photos
• Watch golden aspen trees in fall create one of the Southwest’s best autumn drives
• Experience mountain scenery mixed with small-town charm

Best for: Nature lovers and photographers who want mountain views instead of desert landscapes.

Driving tips: Some parts can be steep and curvy, especially in winter. Check weather conditions before you go.

4. Jemez Mountain Trail – Red Rock Canyons and Hot Springs

This beautiful 70-mile loop starts from Los Alamos and features red rock formations, waterfalls, and natural hot springs. The Jemez Mountain Trail combines dramatic landscapes with chances to soak in warm springs.

Why It’s Worth the Drive

• See the Jemez Red Rocks, striking landscapes perfect for photography
• Stop at Jemez Springs, a small village with hot springs and historic bathhouses
• Explore Valles Caldera National Preserve, a huge volcanic crater with beautiful meadows
• Mix dramatic scenery with relaxing hot springs

Best for: Adventurous travelers who enjoy dramatic landscapes, hiking, and hot springs.

Driving tips: Gas stations are hard to find along this route. Fill up your tank before leaving Santa Fe.

5. Route 66 to Albuquerque – A Classic Desert Drive

Take a piece of the legendary Route 66 and enjoy wide-open desert landscapes mixed with classic roadside attractions. This drive captures the spirit of America’s most famous road.

Why It’s Worth the Drive

• Visit Tinkertown Museum, a quirky roadside attraction filled with handmade miniatures
• Stop at historic cafes known for green chile cheeseburgers
• Drive through vast desert scenery perfect for classic road trip photos
• Experience a piece of American road trip history

Best for: Fans of classic American road trips and wide-open desert highways.

Driving tips: Some sections have long stretches without services. Bring extra water and snacks.

6. Bandelier National Monument Drive – A Scenic Route Through Ancient History

This 45-mile drive from Santa Fe leads to ancient cliff dwellings and beautiful desert views. The Bandelier National Monument Drive combines Native American history with stunning natural beauty.

Why It’s Worth the Drive

• Explore pueblo ruins and cliff dwellings over 700 years old
• Hike through Frijoles Canyon with incredible views and ancient rock art
• See how history and natural beauty come together in one scenic trip
• Learn about ancient people while enjoying modern-day views

Best for: History buffs and people who love exploring ancient sites with stunning views.

Driving tips: Parking fills up fast during busy season. Arrive early to get a parking spot.

Tips for an Amazing Scenic Drive Around Santa Fe

• Time Your Drive Right: The best light for photos happens during sunrise and sunset. The desert landscape glows golden during these times.
• Pack Smart: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a camera. You’ll want to stop for unexpected scenic views along the way.
• Prepare for Altitude: Some routes climb over 10,000 feet above sea level. Stay hydrated and take it slow if you’re not used to high places.
• Check Road Conditions: Mountain roads might close in winter or after heavy rain. Check conditions before you leave.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace rules, especially in remote desert areas. Take only photos and leave only footprints.

Your Next Desert Adventure in Santa Fe Awaits

Santa Fe’s scenic drives offer the perfect way to see New Mexico’s incredible landscapes. Each route tells its own story through views that change around every corner. Whether you’re drawn to mountain peaks, desert valleys, or historic villages, there’s a perfect drive waiting for you.

Choose the drive that matches what you love most. History fans will enjoy the High Road to Taos. Mountain lovers should try the Enchanted Circle. Desert enthusiasts will love Route 66. No matter which route you pick, bring your camera, pack some snacks, and get ready for views that will stay with you long after you return home.

The best part about these drives? They’re just as much about the journey as the destination. So turn up your favorite road trip music, roll down the windows, and discover why New Mexico’s high desert landscape captures the hearts of travelers from around the world.