Road trip season is year-round, right? If you've been itching to get out and explore even more of our fantastic state, you're in luck! Time to pack up your car, grab some of your favorite snacks and car tunes, and get ready for another New Mexico road trip. This time, we've got a wild adventure planned for you that traverses nearly the entire state. Be sure to bring your camera for this one as you explore everything from the Carlsbad Caverns in the south to the mountains of Taos in the north - we're taking you literally from bottom to top! This is one New Mexico road trip that should not be missed.
This road trip clocks in at just over 500 miles, so make sure you pack plenty of snacks!
Use your smartphone to follow our itinerary on Google Maps.
1. Carlsbad Caverns
Your first stop on the trip is Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Here, you can explore the countless caves filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and all other sorts of fascinating rock features. This fantastic natural wonder is a bucket list must-see for New Mexicans and visitors alike, so if you haven't taken the plunge yet, now's your chance!
2. White Sands National Park
Is that snow? Nope! From Carlsbad Caverns National Park, you'll head northwest to White Sands National Park. This expansive natural wonder stretches as far as the eye can see, and you won't believe the snowy white color of these fantastic dunes. Grab a sandboard and keep that camera handy - there's a reason why New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment.
3. Bosque Peak
Bosque Peak in Manzano Mountain Wilderness Area is your next destination. To get to the top, you will need to hike a 6.5-mile trail with plenty of elevation gain. However, don't let that deter you. The views from the top are definitely worth the effort!
4. Devisadero Peak
Devisadero Peak in Orilla Verde Recreation Area is your final stop on this lovely road trip. This 5.6-mile loop in Taos will bring you up to the mountain top where you can look back and remember all the beautiful stops you've had along the way!
This New Mexico road trip is definitely longer than the itineraries we usually put together, but one that is absolutely worth the extra drive time. Along the way, you'll visit two national parks, multiple mountain ranges, cave, and even New Mexico's legendary sand dunes, giving you an amazing taste of all that the Land of Enchantment has to offer. You'll love every part of this fantastically diverse journey on this road trip in New Mexico!
For even more New Mexico road trip ideas, check out 11 of our favorites around the state. Or, If you find yourself hanging out down south, take this Southern New Mexico road trip to see everything this overlooked region has to offer!
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