There is so much to see as you explore New Mexico. The main highways will take you to some incredible sights and gorgeous scenery. However, to truly see what the Land of Enchantment has to offer, take a step off of the main roads and explore the backcountry. The Grants to Quemado Scenic Drive is one backroad adventure that will transport you to one of the most beautiful areas in the state. It’s one of the best scenic drives in New Mexico!

The Grants to Quemado Scenic Drive is approximately 86 miles from start to finish.
Google Maps
To follow along with the route, and make your own adjustments, check out the Google Map. You can also enter your own starting location for exact mileage. The Grants to Quemado Scenic Drive is the perfect way to enjoy some of the remarkable beauty that the Land of Enchantment has to offer. What are you waiting for? Hop in your car and start your adventure!
Make sure you don’t forget your camera on this drive. You’ll come across views that will take your breath away.
David Haigh/AllTrails
On your drive, you’ll come to the Le Malpais National Conservation Area and the El Malpais National Monument.
El Malpais National Conservation Area, NM-117, Grants, NM 87020, USA
Diana Robinson/Flickr
This is a great place to stretch your legs! Make sure to carve out an afternoon to fully experience this magical area.

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Give yourself plenty of time to hike the La Ventana Arch. This 0.4-mile trail will take you to one of the most beautiful arches in New Mexico. You can access the trailhead and parking area just off of Highway 117.
Amy Wilkins/AllTrails
The Lava Falls Trail is another easy hiking trail you’ll pass on your drive. This 1-mile loop trail will give you remarkable views of lava rock.
Heidi Mergen/AllTrails
The Le Malpais National Conservation Area is home to the Lava Falls Trail, an easy one-mile loop that will lead you to a 3,000 year old lava field. Make sure to wear your hiking shoes! Be aware that while this trail's elevation doesn't change, the path itself can be uneven. You’ll want to prepare accordingly before you begin this short hike. After your afternoon adventure, you can enjoy a picturesque picnic and enjoy the natural beauty.
The Sandstone Bluffs Overlook may become your favorite stop on this scenic drive. These bluffs are within the El Malpais National Monument and will give you a gorgeous view of sandstone bluffs and the lava flows of El Malpais.
Sandstone Bluffs, Sandstone Bluffs Rd, Grants, NM 87020, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
You could stare into this magnificent view forever. It's one of the best scenic overlooks in New Mexico
As you drive on the Grants to Quemado Scenic Drive, make sure to look up. The New Mexico skies in this area are some of the best.
Mary Deforest/AllTrails
Embrace New Mexico's enchanting beauty on this breezy scenic drive. Whether you want to relax in you car or get out and explore, you'll have a wonderful adventure.

 

Have you ever explored the Grants to Quemado Scenic Drive? What was your favorite part of this journey? We’d love to hear more. Please share your answer with us! And if you know about more New Mexico road trips, nominate them for a chance to be featured!

If you are looking for more scenic drives in New Mexico, check out our article featuring the seven best backroads in New Mexico for a long scenic drive.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

scenic drives in new mexico

Elisa Regulski | April 22, 2023

What are the best scenic drives in New Mexico?

The best scenic drives in New Mexico are:

  • Cuba to Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness
  • Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway
  • Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway
  • Raton to Capulin
  • Shiprock to Four Corners Monument
  • Guadalupe Backcountry Scenic Byway
  • Taos to Mora
  • Costilla to Cimarron via Valle Vidal

 

What are the best road trips through New Mexico?

The best New Mexico road trips are:

 

What are the best scenic overlooks in New Mexico?

The best scenic overlooks in New Mexico are:

  • Anderson Overlook, near Los Alamos on Highway 502
  • Angel Peak Scenic Area, Highway 550, 16 miles south of Bloomfield
  • Rio Chama Valley Overlook
  • Fajada Butte Overlook, Chaco Culture National Historical Park in Nageezi
  • San Diego Canyon Overlook Site, near Jemez Mountain Trail Scenic Byway
  • Sheep Crossing Overlook, Wild Rivers Recreation Area
  • Taos Valley Overlook
  • White Rock Overlook

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Featured Addresses
NM-117, New Mexico, USA