The Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway Offers Some Of The Most Breathtaking Views In New Mexico
As you travel through New Mexico, you will see some truly incredible sights. The Land of Enchantment is full of gorgeous landscapes and scenery that will take your breath away. One of the best ways to spend your day and to bask in the beauty of this state is to drive on the Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway.
This scenic byway is approximately 150-miles long and forms a large loop. You will travel through a variety of terrain such as remarkable forests, awe-inspiring volcanic craters, and large meadows in the northern part of New Mexico.
There are dozens of hiking, camping, fishing, and backpacking opportunities along this national scenic byway. You will find many places to eat, shop, and learn along the route as well.
The Valles Caldera National Preserve is a large volcanic crater. There are many hiking trails for all skill levels in this area. To start, check out the easy 2.9-mile Cerro La Jara Loop Trail. Along this trail, keep your eyes open for fields of wildflowers, wildlife, and stunning views.
You can fish and hike at this stop on your adventure. This is also a great place to camp for the night if you want to turn this drive into a long excursion.
In this wilderness area, the average elevation is 10,000 feet above sea level. You will see rolling hills, lush meadows, and fabulous streams. This may become one of your favorite areas on the journey.
This natural dam is 300 feet long, 50 feet high, and 50 feet wide. This is a great place to get out and stretch your legs.
Battleship Rock is made from volcanic rock that stands 200 feet tall. Look closely and you will see the rock closely resembles a Navy warship.
You must take a short 0.7-mile out-and-back trail to the small pool. This spring is a warm 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Have you ever traveled on the Jemez Mountain Trail National Scenic Byway? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience!
For more scenic byways in the Land of Enchantment, here are nine that you won’t want to miss.
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Address: Bandelier National Monument, 15 Entrance Rd, Los Alamos, NM 87544, USA
Address: Valles Caldera National Preserve, 39201 NM-4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA
Address: Fenton Lake State Park, New Mexico 87025, USA
Address: Coyote, NM 87012, USA
Address: Jemez Soda Dam, 19219 NM-4, Jemez Springs, NM 87025, USA
Address: Battleship Rock, New Mexico 87025, USA
Address: Spence Hot Springs, New Mexico 87025, USA