As summer’s warmth fades, fall tourism in Santa Fe comes alive. Fall is one of the best times to visit Santa Fe, especially if you enjoy gorgeous fall scenery, hikes, scenic drives, and more. One of the best scenic drives to take is the High Road, which snakes through the mountains from Santa Fe to Taos. This mountain road winds through stunning landscapes and charming mountain communities, making it a favorite among travelers.
Imagine cruising through the mountains, surrounded by the golden hues of New Mexico’s aspens. Of course, the High Road to Taos is just one of many great Santa Fe scenic drives worth taking this fall. As always, these scenic drives are even more enchanting with the quaint communities you’ll encounter. Fall is the perfect season to visit local artisans, especially during the High Road Studio Tour at the end of September. The scenic byways around Santa Fe provide an array of day trips and breathtaking views, making them essential for your fall itinerary.
In addition to driving through gorgeous scenery, you’ll find plenty more things to do in Santa Fe this fall. Choose the ultimate retreat at our charming Inn for your fall getaway in Santa Fe. Located within walking distance of the historic Santa Fe Plaza and the New Mexico Capitol, our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast offers a serene escape on a quiet residential street. Enjoy spacious, beautifully appointed rooms, a delectable daily breakfast, and exceptional hospitality. Make your visit unforgettable by booking a stay at our Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe today!
Drive the High Road From Santa Fe to Taos
The High Road from Santa Fe to Taos is a journey through some of New Mexico’s most breathtaking landscapes. This scenic drive takes you through the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering sweeping views of the rugged terrain and vibrant fall foliage. As you travel from Santa Fe to Taos, you’ll pass through picturesque villages and past some of the top attractions in northern New Mexico. The High Road to Taos is more than just a drive, though. It’s one of the best ways to get into the cultural heart of Northern New Mexico for a truly authentic experience.
One of the highlights of the High Road from Santa Fe to Taos is the opportunity to visit the many local artisan studios and galleries along the way. These communities are home to talented artists who draw inspiration from their stunning surroundings. During the fall, the High Road Studio Tour showcases these artists’ works, allowing visitors to explore and purchase unique pieces directly from the creators. This is one of the most popular fall studio tours in the Santa Fe area, and it always takes place during the last two weekends in September.
As you continue on the High Road from Santa Fe to Taos, you’ll encounter several historic landmarks and sites of interest. About 35 minutes north of our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast is one of the premier attractions in the area, the historic Santuario de Chimayó. This historic church is an annual pilgrimage destination and is thought to be one of the most sacred spaces in the world. For well over a century, pilgrims have been traveling to these sacred grounds to touch the holy dirt and ask for healing for themselves and others. Chimayó is also home to world-renowned weavers and is a great place to stop as you make your way from Santa Fe to Taos.
However, Chimayó is just one of the many great stops along the High Road to Taos. Other historic stops include the San José de Gracia Church in Las Trampas. It is a beautifully preserved 18th-century adobe church that is a testament to the area’s deep-rooted history. The drive culminates in Taos, a town known for its vibrant arts scene and the iconic Taos Pueblo. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, the High Road from Santa Fe to Taos offers a memorable and enriching journey that captures the essence of New Mexico in the fall.
More Santa Fe Scenic Drives for Fall
Though the journey from Santa Fe to Taos is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the Santa Fe area, it’s but one of many. The fall season brings a gorgeous transformation to the high deserts and national forests surrounding us, bringing a mesmerizing display of color to the area. Santa Fe scenic drives allow you to immerse yourself in the middle of this incredible scenery. The play of light on the rugged terrain and the bright pops of yellow aspens peeking out amidst the deep green pines are captivating.
One of the most popular Santa Fe scenic drives is the High Road from Santa Fe to Toas. However, there are so many more scenic drives to take in the area. Below, we’ve listed the five best routes for Santa Fe scenic drives to consider this fall.
- One of the most popular fall drives in New Mexico is the Enchanted Circle. This route takes you through historic towns and landmarks, like the oldest occupied residence of New Mexico and the Taos Pueblo, not to mention scenic alpine forests and lakes. The route encircles Wheeler Peak, the tallest part of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, showcasing some of New Mexico’s most stunning fall foliage.
- The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway is another popular choice for Santa Fe scenic drives. You’ll drive through the heart of New Mexico’s mining history, offering stunning views of the Sandia Mountains and the vibrant fall foliage. Along the way, take the time to explore some of New Mexico’s most popular and charming towns, like Madrid and Cerrillos. This route also includes plenty of fantastic art galleries and studios to visit. The Turquoise Trail Studio Tour also takes place in September.
- For gorgeous mountain views in the fall, don’t miss one of our favorite Santa Fe scenic drives, the Santa Fe Forest National Scenic Byway. This breathtaking drive takes you deep into the Santa Fe National Forest, where you can witness the vibrant transformation of aspens and cottonwoods. It’s also the perfect place to stop for some of the best fall hiking in Santa Fe.
- Finally, don’t miss the Jemez Mountain Trail Scenic Byway. From the Jemez Pueblo to the inspiring beauty of Valles Caldera National Preserve, it’s easy to see why this is one of our favorite Santa Fe scenic drives.
It’s hard to go wrong with one of these Santa Fe scenic drives – but this is just one of the many great things waiting for you in Santa Fe this fall. Don’t miss the best season in The City Different. Book your getaway at our top-rated Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast today!
