12 Unforgettable New Mexico Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year

Yet another year is well upon us, and we think that's a great reason to celebrate. One of our favorite ways to do so is with a bit of travel. Looking for suggestions? Pick and choose from any of these 12 best New Mexico day trips for a fun outing.

1. Billy the Kid Scenic Byway

First on our list is an 84-mile drive through a picturesque portion of southern New Mexico. You'll drive through historic towns and sites, like Ruidoso, Lincoln, and Fort Stanton. This is one scenic drive in New Mexico you'll always remember!

2. Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

There are plenty of places that offer out of this world views but Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness tops the list. Located near Chaco Culture National Historical Park, this wilderness area is home to thousands of acres of hoodoos, buttes, washes, and more.

3. Bridal Veil Falls Trail

Hiking to waterfalls is a rare treat in New Mexico and one of our favorites is the Bridal Veil Falls trail near Alamogordo. The 7-mile trek will take you to the 45-foot waterfall, which varies between trickles and a gentle flow. Come see why this is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in New Mexico!

4. Chaco Culture National Historical Park

If you've never had the pleasure of visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site, make time to do so this year. Dating back to 850 A.D., the historic dwellings once housed Ancient Puebloans and remain an important cultural site for local tribes. When it comes to historic places in New Mexico, this is one of the most fascinating.

5. Chloride

Hiding in the southwestern part of the Land of Enchantment, this tiny ghost town in New Mexico was once a booming mining town that was eventually abandoned in 1956. These days, a few stragglers still call the area home and you can visit the historic buildings, a museum, and the nearby creek for a nature walk.

6. Cimarron Canyon State Park

Most people tend to prefer visiting this state park in the fall when the leaves turn a gorgeous golden hue but it's a lovely visit any time of year. Located 3.5 hours from Albuquerque, it's a fantastic retreat for hiking, birding, fishing, or even camping. Fans of New Mexico's state parks will adore this stop.

7. Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway

Over the course of 83 miles, you'll be treated to some of the most spectacular mountain views in New Mexico when you drive this byway. Drive through towns like Taos, Red River, and Angel Fire, as well as state parks, ski areas, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. This is one of the best scenic drives in New Mexico./a>

8. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

Tucked away in Gila National Forest, these ancient cliffside dwellings in New Mexico are a sight to behold. Dating back to about 1275 A.D., they housed a group of Mogollon people and are remarkably well-preserved.

9. Kingston

This former mining town sits approximately 50 miles east of Silver City and a visit here will reveal a hint of 19th-century boomtown life. Practically a ghost town, Kingston, New Mexico is home to a small community with historic buildings, a couple of museums, and a lovely little lodge.

10. Madrid

This former mining town was saved from an official ghost town status by artists who transformed it into an eccentric destination. Madrid is a colorful, art-filled community with a large number of galleries, stores, diners, and more. This is one hip New Mexico ghost town!

11. Silver City

If there's any place in New Mexico that most certainly deserves a second look, it's Silver City, located in the southern portion of the state. Home to beautiful architecture, galleries, and lovely parks, this town makes for a fun getaway.

12. Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge

Feel the need to retreat into nature this year? Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge is a picturesque location for birding, gazing the night sky, or simply enjoying nature outside the city.

Which of these day trips in New Mexico are you most looking forward to traveling? Are there any other locations you want to visit in New Mexico this year?

There are so many hidden gems in New Mexico to discover!