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HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesWest USANew MexicoNew Mexico
Ghost Town New Mexico

New Mexico Road Trip

Albuquerque - Cuba - Taos - Cimarron - Clayton - Angel Fire - Santa Fe - Grants - Springerville - Silver City - Las Cruces - Alamogordo - San Antonito

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
New Mexico Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages13 km2,526 h/stage3.0

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a New Mexico Road Trip in New Mexico?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 720EUR drive & more 338EUR sleep & more 1,265EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,755EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,475EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 864EUR drive & more 450EUR sleep & more 1,903EUR eat & more 1,728EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,081EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,945EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,440EUR drive & more 613EUR sleep & more 3,168EUR eat & more 2,304EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 6,085EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 7,525EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,600EUR drive & more 688EUR sleep & more 880EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,720EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,320EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary

Experience the breathtaking landscapes on this amazing New Mexico Road Trip! Start in Albuquerque and head to Cuba, a small mountain town that is full of local charm and culture. From here, take a scenic drive to Cimarron, which is a great place for outdoor activities such as fishing, camping and hiking. Make sure to visit Angel Fire, a lively ski resort town with plenty of shops and restaurants. Continue your journey to Grants, which is known for its archaeological sites and historical monuments. Finally, make your way to Silver City, a small but vibrant town with an old-west feel. This incredible road trip is approximately 2526 kilometers long and takes about 16 days to complete. The best time of the year to drive is April through October, as you will be able to enjoy the most of the beautiful landscapes that this route has to offer. Along your journey, you will also be able to visit some UNESCO Heritage Monuments, such as the Chaco Culture National Historical Park and the El Malpais National Monument. The road conditions are also excellent, so you can rest assured that your journey will be smooth and safe. This New Mexico Road Trip is the perfect way to enjoy a memorable experience while keeping the budget moderate. Whether you are a seasoned driver or just starting out, this road trip is suitable for everyone and will provide you with lasting memories.
number of days 16 number of days
route length 2,526 km route length
budget fair budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Albuquerque

Distance 2,526 km Driving time 39.1 h Pace: fast 757.8 kWh Airports ABQ
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Albuquerque in the state of New Mexico is an ideal starting point for the "New Mexico Road Trip" adventure. Located in the high desert of the southwest United States, Albuquerque is a modern city with a rich and diverse culture. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and is a great option for car rentals. Albuquerque is home to some of the most interesting sights in the state. Start your journey at the iconic Sandia Peak Tramway, the longest aerial tram in the United States. From the top of the tram, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Rio Grande Valley and the stunning Sandia Mountains. Be sure to take in the beauty of the Rio Grande River, which winds through the city, and explore the many parks and trails along the way. Next, check out the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, located in the heart of the city. Here you can explore the city’s vibrant art and cultural scene and discover the history of Albuquerque. Don’t forget to take a stroll through Old Town Albuquerque, which is filled with unique shops, restaurants and galleries. Finally, take a day trip to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, where you can learn about the history and culture of the 19 Pueblo tribes in New Mexico. Here you can explore the work of local artists and artisans, as well as discover traditional dances, songs and stories. Albuquerque is a wonderful place to start your "New Mexico Road Trip" and explore all the unique sights the state has to offer.

1 Albuquerque - Cuba

Distance 137 km Driving time 1.4 h Pace: fast 41.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Get ready for an exciting road trip from Albuquerque to Cuba, a route that will take you through the enchanting Jemez Pueblo! With a distance of 85 miles and a driving time of less than two hours, this journey is a perfect way to explore the area. Start your adventure in Albuquerque, where you will find a variety of historical sites to explore. Then, head to Jemez Pueblo, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Jemez Mountains and the surrounding area. Finally, make your way to Cuba, where you can visit the quaint shops and restaurants in the downtown area. As you make your way through this route, be sure to keep an eye out for any interesting historical sites or other attractions. You can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!

2 Cuba - Taos

Distance 195 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 58.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips
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Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Cuba, United States and ending in Taos? This journey of 121 miles, taking fewer than 3 hours, will take you through some of the most beautiful and interesting places. As you leave Cuba, you will be able to explore the old mining town of La Veta, where you will find the historic La Veta Pass. You can also visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, where you can admire the amazing sand dunes and take a walk through the dunes. As you continue your journey, you will reach the San Luis Valley, where you will find the San Luis Lakes State Wildlife Area, a great place to observe wildlife and enjoy some outdoor activities. Finally, you will reach your destination of Taos, where you can explore the Taos Pueblo, the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States. Here you can learn about the history and culture of the Taos people. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to start your unforgettable road trip!

3 Taos - Cimarron

Distance 127 km Driving time 2.0 h Pace: fast 38.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Welcome to the Taos-Cimarron road trip! This 79-mile journey is a great way to explore the beauty of northern New Mexico. Along the way, you'll have the chance to visit some of the most interesting places in the region. Start off in Taos, and make sure to check out the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From there, take a drive down the scenic High Road to Taos, and admire the stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. As you continue your drive, you'll come to the small town of Cimarron, where you can explore the historical sites of Fort Union National Monument and St. James Hotel. The drive will take less than two hours, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery. Be sure to keep an eye out for other historical sites along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your journey!

4 Cimarron - Clayton

Distance 197 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: fast 59.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Cimarron to Clayton! This 122-mile journey of fewer than 2 hours will take you through the beautiful Raton Pass, an area of spectacular mountain views, wildflower fields and picturesque lakes. Start your journey in Cimarron, where you can explore the historic buildings, shops and galleries of the Old Town. Then take a drive to Raton Pass, where you can admire the breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Don't forget to take a break at the Storrie Lake State Park, where you can enjoy a picnic or a hike. Continue your journey to Clayton, where you can visit the historic Union County Courthouse and the Clayton Lake State Park. End your trip with a visit to the nearby Capulin Volcano National Monument, where you can take a walk around the crater and learn about the area's volcanic history. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

5 Clayton - Angel Fire

Distance 256 km Driving time 3.4 h Pace: fast 76.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Start your road trip in Clayton, United States, a charming city full of history and culture. As you drive through Springer, you will be amazed by the breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Take a break and go for a hike in the nearby Cimarron National Grassland. Afterward, continue your journey to Angel Fire, a stunning mountain village with plenty of outdoor activities. Along the way, you will pass through small towns, stunning landscapes, and historical sites. The total distance of this stage is 159mi and the estimated driving time is fewer than 4 hours. Make sure to stop at the most interesting places to visit in these locations, and you will have a memorable trip. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage.

6 Angel Fire - Santa Fe

Distance 165 km Driving time 3.6 h Pace: modest 42.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site interesting cultural site accommodation options
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Start your road trip in Angel Fire, a small mountain village in the Moreno Valley of Northern New Mexico. Here, you'll find plenty of outdoor activities, like skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. From Angel Fire, you'll head south to Las Trampas, an old Spanish settlement. This is a great place to explore the history of the area and to take in the stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Next, you'll make your way to Santa Fe, the state capital of New Mexico. Santa Fe is a beautiful city with plenty of culture, art, and history to explore. While in Santa Fe, be sure to visit the Plaza, the Palace of the Governors, and the Loretto Chapel. The drive from Angel Fire to Santa Fe is only 103 miles and should take fewer than 4 hours. Along the way, make sure to keep an eye out for historical sites, as there are plenty to be seen. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

7 Santa Fe - Grants

Distance 264 km Driving time 6.4 h Pace: modest 68.6 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options junction of road trips
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Welcome to the Santa Fe-Grants road trip! This 164mi journey takes you through some of the most beautiful places in the United States. Start in Santa Fe and visit the Loretto Chapel, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi. As you make your way to Grants, make sure to stop in the El Malpais National Monument and the El Morro National Monument. Enjoy the stunning views of the volcanic landscape, the ancient petroglyphs, and the majestic cliffs of El Morro. You can also take a break and explore the nearby Zuni Pueblo. You can find more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

8 Grants - Springerville

Distance 218 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 65.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready to explore the amazing Southwest of the United States! This stage of the tour starts in Grants, a small city in the Cibola County. From there, you will be driving 135 mi (less than 3 hours) to Springerville. On the way, you will pass through Malpais National Park, a picturesque area with volcanic cones, lava flows, and cinder fields. Don't forget to take a break and enjoy the breathtaking views that this place has to offer. In the park, you can also explore the many hiking trails and discover the diverse wildlife. Continue your journey to Springerville, a small town in the White Mountains. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Here you can find a variety of attractions, from the historic downtown to the nearby lakes and rivers. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

9 Springerville - Silver City

Distance 238 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: fast 71.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey from Springerville to Silver City. This stage of your trip is 148 miles long and can be done in less than 3 hours. Start your journey in Springerville, where you can visit the Petrified Forest National Park. This park is home to the largest concentration of petrified wood in the world, and you can explore the area's fossils and other geological wonders. Next, you'll head to St. Johns, where you can visit the Apache County Historical Society Museum. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the Apache people. Then, you'll make your way to Safford, where you can visit the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area. This area is home to a variety of wildlife, and you can explore the trails and take in the breathtaking views of the Gila River. Finally, you'll arrive in Silver City, where you can visit the Silver City Museum. This museum offers a look into the history and culture of the area, as well as a variety of exhibits and displays. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

10 Silver City - Las Cruces

Distance 240 km Driving time 4.1 h Pace: modest 62.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Let's start in Silver City, United States, and travel through Emory Pass. Get ready to be amazed by the breathtaking views of the Gila National Forest and the Gila Wilderness. As you drive, keep your eyes open for wildlife like elk, deer and antelope. You will also pass through the Mimbres Valley, where you can admire the old ruins of the Mogollon culture. After 149 miles and fewer than 5 hours of driving, you will reach Las Cruces. Here, you can explore the historic Mesilla Plaza, the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, and the Las Cruces Museum of Art. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

11 Las Cruces - Alamogordo

Distance 117 km Driving time 1.3 h Pace: fast 35.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape
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Take a road trip from Las Cruces to Alamogordo and experience the best of New Mexico's nature! This 73 mi journey will take you less than 2 hours and will let you explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the US. Start your adventure in Las Cruces and drive through the majestic White Sands National Park, where you can admire the amazing white sand dunes that stretch for miles. Stop and take some pictures of the breathtaking view of the desert and its wildlife. Make sure to also visit the monument of the Alamogordo Bombing and Gunnery Range and learn about the history of the place. Finally, end your journey in Alamogordo, a charming city with a lot of interesting places to visit. Enjoy the stunning views and take some time to explore the city. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage.

12 Alamogordo - San Antonito

Distance 198 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: fast 59.5 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Alamogordo to San Antonito! This 123 mile journey will take you less than 3 hours, and you'll have plenty of time to explore some of the most interesting places along the way. Start your journey by visiting the White Sands National Monument, located just outside of Alamogordo. Here you can take a self-guided tour of the area and learn about its rich history. As you drive towards San Antonito, you'll pass by the Carlsbad Caverns National Park, one of the most impressive UNESCO Heritage Sites in the United States. Make sure to stop and explore the underground caves and admire the incredible rock formations. Once you arrive in San Antonito, you'll be greeted by the stunning views of the Rio Grande Valley. You can also visit the nearby Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, where you can observe a variety of different species of birds. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.

13 San Antonito - Albuquerque

Distance 175 km Driving time 4.7 h Pace: slow 40.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on a unique road trip along El Camino Real, a 108-mile stretch that starts in San Antonito and ends in Albuquerque. This journey takes fewer than 5 hours and is filled with attractions, historical sites, and breathtaking landscapes. Experience the vibrant culture of San Antonito, a small town that is home to a variety of galleries, shops, and restaurants. As you travel through El Camino Real, you will come across the ruins of the Piedra Lumbre Village, an ancient settlement that dates back to the 17th century. Continue the journey to Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico. Here you can explore the Old Town Plaza, a historic district filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Don't forget to visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, a museum that showcases the history, culture, and art of the Native American tribes of New Mexico. As you drive along El Camino Real, be sure to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. From the majestic mountains to the rolling hills, this journey is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage.

  Albuquerque

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At the end of your road trip through New Mexico, you will reach the beautiful city of Albuquerque. Located in the heart of the state, Albuquerque is one of the most iconic cities in the Southwest. As the largest city in New Mexico, it offers a variety of activities that will make your trip even more special. Start your trip in Old Town Albuquerque, a historic district filled with adobe buildings and colorful shops. Here you can find art galleries, museums, and restaurants, as well as Native American jewelry and pottery. Make sure to visit the Albuquerque Biological Park, which includes a zoo, aquarium, and botanic garden. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, the Sandia Mountains offer a variety of hiking trails, rock climbing, and camping. The Petroglyph National Monument provides a unique look at the history of the area, with more than 20,000 images carved into the volcanic rocks. For a unique night out, visit the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This annual event attracts hundreds of hot air balloons from around the world. You can also experience traditional Native American culture at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Albuquerque is served by the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), the largest commercial airport in New Mexico. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural events, or simply a chance to relax, Albuquerque has something for everyone. End your New Mexico road trip in this vibrant city and create lasting memories.

New Mexico Road Trip at a glance

We’d be glad if our travel idea gave you plenty of inspirations for your future road adventures.
Our tour can be used as a foundation that can be recreated in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original highlights of your choice.
If car travel is a travel mode that you prefer, there are a number of essential traffic regulations to follow and a bunch of things to keep in mind to make your road trip smooth and safe. The following road rules will surely become useful for all tourists who are considering car hire or camper hire in New Mexico.
It is essential to follow the local road regulations when driving around New Mexico. When moving around New Mexico in a car, try avoiding alcoholic beverages at any expense. Drivers ought to remember that the legal alcohol limit is rather low and is only 0.5‰. In order to avoid a speeding fine, it is best to never exceed 40km/h, which is the maximum car speed when driving around the the city streets. In non-build-up areas, holidaymakers can travel at the maximum car speed of 72km/h. On motorways, 129km/h is the maximum car speed that you should be mindful of. In order to stay safe, we recommend driving with your headlights on at daytime and equipping your car with a first aid kit and fire extinguisher.
The majority of holidaymakers wonder about the costs of the whole trip. The amount of money that you have to pay during the whole adventure depends on budget option that you select. A wide range of budget possibilities is presented below.
We estimate that the budget option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 2,526km while travelling around New Mexico will cost around 338 EUR. Travel expenses connected with economy overnight stays will cost up to about 1,265 EUR. When it comes to the travel expenses related to food and restaurants in this option, the average expenses are 1,152 EUR. Travellers will have to pay approximately 720 EUR if they opt for the cheapest hire car option as well. Thus, going for car rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from approximately 2,755 EUR to approximately 3,475 EUR.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 338 EUR to cover the planned mileage of the adventure. If you are into standard accommodation options, you should bear in mind that the expenses can amount up to approximately 1,903 EUR. The slightly increased standard in comparison to the budget option entails costs amounting to around 1,728 EUR. If you are planning on hiring a car, a standard one costs about 864 EUR. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay more or less 4,945 EUR for the whole tour, whereas those who are not interested in car hire will spend approximately 4,081 EUR.
The most demanding drivers will be surely pleased with the premium option. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total roughly 7,525 EUR for holidaymakers who are considering car hire and 4,081 EUR for those who do not need a hire car. Travellers who want to cover the road trip in a premium rental vehicle can expect a cost of approximately 1,440 EUR. When it comes to the premium version of the trip, the cost of the gasoline needed to cover all stages around New Mexico is roughly 613 EUR. Travellers who will go for top services in all aspects of their trip should expect to pay about 3,168 EUR for hotels and more or less 2,304 EUR for restaurants and food.
Our road trip will also be excellent for all camper enthusiasts, as it can be easily adjusted to their requirements. When it comes to this travel means, you will pay up to more or less 3,600 EUR. You will spend around 688 EUR on gasoline allowing to cover all stages of the tour. Expenses connected with accommodation should cost about 880 EUR, and those connected with food will be pay about 1,152 EUR.
The Road Trip Costs section shows all the above costs in detail.
The period between April and October is superb to visit the part of New Mexico presented in our road trip idea. If New Mexico Road Trip has sparked your creativity, you should definitely check out other exciting road trips that we offer on our website. We hope that the great versatility of ideas will definitely measure up to the expectations of the most demanding drivers.

Facts for safer driving in New Mexico

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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