Taos and the High Road

A round trip of about 165 miles

Head north on US 84/285 and turn right on NM 503, which you'll take to NM 76. Follow NM 76 to Chimayó, a traditional weaving village with galleries featuring work by award-winning weavers. Here you'll find the 19th-century Santuario de Chimayó, known as the "Lourdes of the Southwest" because it attracts thousands of pilgrims seeking the "miraculous dirt" on church property rumored to have healing powers.

Continue on NM 76 through Cordova, Truchas and Ojo Sarco, all towns with great galleries selling woodcarvings, pottery, rugs and other local arts and crafts. In Las Trampas, an 18th-century mission church is one of New Mexico's best-preserved examples of Spanish Colonial architecture. Pick up NM 518 at Peñasco and wind your way through the Carson National Forest to US 68 at Ranchos de Taos, where you'll see the famous San Francisco de Asis Church, photographed and painted by many artists. Drive into Taos and explore museums, galleries, shops, restaurants and the historic Taos Pueblo.

Head back to Santa Fe on NM 68 following the Rio Grande as it drops dramatically from a broad mesa into a narrow canyon. River rafters and kayakers are often on this part of the river, where several miles of churning waters offer thrilling rides. Visit Embudo, a historic railroad stop, then drive through farmland dotted with roadside stands offering seasonal chile, fruit and other locally-grown foods before you turn south on US 84/285 at Española and return to Santa Fe.