Day Trips & Excursions: Taos

Nearby Destinations

Explore compelling locations a short distance from Taos, each presenting unique opportunities for discovery.

These destinations range from historic cities and therapeutic hot springs to scenic byways and artist havens.

Day Trip Options

Santa Fe: Art galleries, historic Plaza, Georgia O'Keeffe Museum. (~1.5-2 hrs)
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs: Historic mineral springs, spa treatments. (~45-60 mins)
High Road to Taos: Traditional villages, adobe churches, artisan studios. (3-5 hrs exploring)
Abiquiu (Ghost Ranch): Red rock landscapes, O'Keeffe inspiration, hiking. (~1 hour)

Natural Escapes

Northern New Mexico's landscapes hold stunning natural escapes for hiking, photography, and enjoying the outdoors.

Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

This vast monument encompasses the dramatic Rio Grande Gorge, the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, and expansive high desert and riparian ecosystems. It protects significant cultural and natural resources.

Activities Available

Hiking with dramatic volcanic canyons and mesas.
Fishing in the Rio Grande.
White water rafting opportunities.

Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway

An 83-mile (134 km) loop drive through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, connecting Taos with Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, and Angel Fire. This byway offers a comprehensive tour of the region's diverse landscapes.

Scenic Highlights

Alpine forests and sparkling mountain lakes.
High desert plateaus and changing scenic beauty.
Spectacular fall foliage in late September and October.

Cimarron Canyon State Park

Park Overview

Located east of Eagle Nest, along the Enchanted Circle.
Rugged canyon scenery along the Cimarron River.
Designated sites for camping.
Impressive canyon walls.

Activities and Wildlife

Popular for fishing.
Hiking on well-maintained trails.
Wildlife viewing: elk, deer, and bears are common.
Opportunities for nature photography.

Multi-Day Extension Options

Santa Fe & Northern New Mexico Loop (3-5 days):Explore Santa Fe's art, history, and culinary scene. Best by car, or via NCRTD Taos Express.
Suggested Route:Fly into Albuquerque (ABQ), 2-3 nights in Santa Fe, then scenic High Road to Taos for 2-3 nights. Return via US-68.

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve (Colorado) (1-2 days):Drive north to see North America's tallest sand dunes. Best by car (~2 hours from Taos).
Southern New Mexico (4-7 days):Visit Albuquerque, White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, or Gila Cliff Dwellings. Mainly by car.

Plan Your Day Trip

Consider booking guided day trips or experiences through GetYourGuide for convenient arrangements and local insights.

Cultural Excursions

Deepen your understanding of New Mexico's history and traditions by visiting these culturally rich sites outside Taos.

High Road to Taos

This scenic byway is a cultural journey in itself, featuring historic adobe churches and artisan studios in villages like Chimayo and Truchas.

Abiquiu

Visit the Georgia O'Keeffe Home & Studio (reservation required) and Ghost Ranch, exploring the landscapes that inspired much of O'Keeffe's work.

Pecos National Historical Park

Preserves the ruins of Pecos Pueblo and a Spanish mission church, offering insight into ancient Pueblo culture and Spanish interactions.

High Road Cultural Journey

The High Road to Taos offers a chance to visit historical sites, rural villages, and artisan craft centers.

Highlights

Santuario de Chimayo, a revered pilgrimage site.
Artisan studios for weaving and wood carving.
Experience traditional New Mexican village life.

Abiquiu's Artistic & Natural Heritage

Abiquiu holds significance for its stunning landscapes and its deep connection to Georgia O'Keeffe's artistic legacy.

Exploration Points

Georgia O'Keeffe Home & Studio (reservations needed).
Ghost Ranch tours of landscapes O'Keeffe painted.

Pecos National Historical Park Insights

Location:Southeast of Santa Fe, approx. 2 hours from Taos.

Preserves:Ruins of Pecos Pueblo and Spanish mission church.

Cultural Significance:Ancient Pueblo culture.

Historical Context:Arrival of the Spanish.

Interactions:Complex interactions between groups.

Regional Focus:Provides historical context for the region.

Journey Through Time

Engaging with these sites deepens your appreciation for the rich heritage of Northern New Mexico.
Many offer unique insights into the blend of Native American and Hispanic cultures.
Always check hours and availability, especially for tours like O'Keeffe's Home & Studio.
Respect local customs and traditions when visiting these significant cultural landmarks.
These excursions round out your Taos experience with diverse historical narratives.

Multi-Day Extensions

For those with more time, combine your Taos visit with other destinations for a comprehensive regional experience.

Santa Fe & Northern New Mexico Loop

Combine your time in Taos with a visit to Santa Fe, known for its distinct art scene, deep history, and renowned culinary offerings. Consider adding a night in Abiquiu or Ojo Caliente.

Travel Considerations

Best explored by car for maximum flexibility.
NCRTD Taos Express bus connects Taos and Santa Fe.
Suggested route: ABQ - Santa Fe - High Road to Taos - ABQ via US-68.

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve Extension

Drive north from Taos into Southern Colorado to experience Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, home to the tallest sand dunes in North America.

Planning Your Trip

Best done by car from Taos.
Drive to Alamosa, Colorado (~2 hours).
Consider spending a night in Alamosa or camping at the park.

Southern New Mexico Exploration

For a much longer trip, continue south from Taos to explore diverse attractions in Southern New Mexico.

Destinations

Albuquerque: Old Town, Petroglyph National Monument.
White Sands National Park: stunning white gypsum dunes.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park: massive underground caves.

Southern New Mexico Additional Sites

The southern part of the state also offers ancient dwellings and convenient departure points.

Further Exploration

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument: ancient dwellings in cliffs.
Mainly by car, destinations are spread out.
Consider flying out of El Paso, Texas, if suitable.

Planning Your Extended Journey

Thoughtful planning for multi-day trips enhances your overall experience in the region.

Flexible Travel

Rental cars offer the most flexibility for exploring diverse destinations.

Accommodation Booking

Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Route Planning

Map out routes to see how much driving is involved.

Seamless Travel

Extended trips reveal more of New Mexico's diverse beauty. Consider combining your Taos visit with other unique areas.

Day Trips & Excursions