Day Trips from Abiquiú
Interesting places around one-hour drive
Bandelier National Monument
Bandelier National Monument protects over 33,000 acres of rugged but beautiful canyon and mesa country as well as evidence of a human presence here going back over 11,000 years. Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs, and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities.
Carson National Forest
One of five in New Mexico, Carson National Forest offers beautiful scenery, cool summer temperatures, and quiet peace. Elevations rise from 6,000 feet to 13,161 at Wheeler Peak –– highest in in the state. An eco-travel destination, the natural environment is to be left undisturbed. As visitors, we are free to enjoy the woods, hike/ski the trails, and watch the sparkling mountain streams flow. Horseback riding and mountain biking too. Trail guides are available at any Carson office.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a National Historic Landmark coal-fired steam engine that takes you on a 64-mile day trip through steep mountain canyons, high desert, and lush meadows as you zigzag between the Colorado and New Mexico border. Enjoy spectacular and rare Western scenery which can only be viewed from the train’s unique route.You can choose between the deluxe parlor car or the budget-friendly coach car. Either way, a delicious buffet lunch is included. Trains depart daily from Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado (late May and October).
Manhattan Project & Los Alamos
The Manhattan Project, a research and development effort that produced the first nuclear weapons, took place in Los Alamos. Visit the Bradbury Science Museum and the Los Alamos History Museum and learn the history of Los Alamos, the "secret city on the hill." Take a walking tour, visit the Nature Center, and gaze from the Anderson and White Rock Overlooks. Walk along Bathtub Row to se
Mesa Prieta Petroglyph Park
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Mesa Prieta Petroglyph Park contains over 10,000 petroglyphs. See, learn and identify petroglyphs left behind by ancient Puebloans, the former stewards and protectors of this land. Read our blog interview with Katherine Wells, founder of the Mesa Prieta Petroglyph Project. The project has a mission to record, preserve and educate.
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs & Spa
A day trip to Ojo Caliente Mineral Spring baths is a great way to relax and rejuvenate. The springs are said to be spiritual and healing waters. The springs are sulphur-free, geothermal mineral waters which have flowed from a subterranean volcanic aquifer for thousands of years. They offer eleven pools with different types and combinations of these waters with temperatures ranging from 80-109 degrees. You can purchase a day pass to use the spas for the day.
Rio Grande Gorge & Bridge
Located outside of Taos, the Rio Grande Gorge is listed as Audubon’s Important Bird Areas (IBAs). The “High Bridge” or “Gorge Bridge” provides the most spectacular views of the Rio Grande and its surrounding terrain. Situated 600 feet above the river, it’s the second highest bridge on the US Highway System and fifth highest in the country. Enjoy the walking trail along the rim of the gorge. The famous bridge can be seen in the films Paul, Terminator Salvation, Natural Born Killers, Wild Hogs and White Sands. For a different experience, try llama trekking through Wild Earth Llama Adventures in Taos.
Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico’s capital city, is not only the highest in the US but the oldest and only one with a round capitol building. The city is legendary for its history, culture and arts community and has over 40 festivals and fiestas each year. It’s home to both the oldest public building, the Palace of Governors, and the oldest community celebration, the Santa Fe Fiesta, and is the oldest capital in the US. Much of its culture is connected to 23 Native American Tribes and Spanish heritage. A trip to Santa Fe is always a must and a much different experience than a stay in Abiquiú.
Taos
Known for its pueblo, arts community, landmarks and of course, skiing and snowboarding, Taos is a place to explore both ancient and modern culture. Taos Pueblo is a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site with buildings dating back to the 14th century. Traditions run deep, and the history, land and culture make it a unique and inspiring place to visit. It’s long been a mecca for artists and visionaries.
Valles Caldera National Preserve
About 1.25 million years ago, a super volcanic eruption created the 13-mile wide circular depression (a caldera) that is now called the Valles Caldera National Preserve. Located in the Jemez mountains, the preserve contains the largest US young volcano and is known for its grassland valleys, abundant wildlife and meandering streams. The area also preserves the homeland of ancestral native peoples and has a rich ranching history. In 2015, it became part of Bandelier National Park.
