D 1 ALBUQUERQUE

Consider arriving a day ahead in Albuquerque and arranging your own transfer to the Airport Sheraton Albuquerque Airport Hotel, where the group will convene the next morning to kick off the trip. For those with extra time, we highly recommend a visit to the International Folk Museum, one of our cherished spots. If you prefer a more leisurely stay and arrive earlier, consider booking a stay at Los Poblanos, a beautifully restored old farm (please note a 2-night minimum for Fri-Sat). Alternatively, for a stay in the heart of Albuquerque, explore the Historic Old Town and the new urban Sawmill districts by choosing Hotel Chaco.

O/N Airport Sheraton Albuquerque Airport Hotel

D 2 jAMEZ - LOS ALAMOS

77 mi / 7,779 ft

For centuries, the Jemez people have called the Jemez Valley home, with a history in Northern New Mexico dating back at least a millennium. Primarily engaged in farming, they also excel in gathering and hunting. After a 1-hour transfer from Albuquerque, our journey commences from the Jamez Pueblo & Visitor Center, where we gradually ascend through the Jamez Mountains. A brief detour leads us to the Gillman Tunnels, constructed in 1920, suspended above the Guadalupe Box Canyon and its flowing river, a scenic location recognized by fans of the movie '3:10 to Yuma.'

The pinnacle of the day arrives as we round a corner, revealing the breathtaking Valles Caldera National Preserve. Originating from a volcanic eruption 1.25 million years ago, this 13-mile wide circular depression captivates with expansive mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, and meandering streams. Descending from 8,700 feet across the mountain plateau, we venture into the rugged canyons and mesas of Bandelier National Monument, where human settlements have existed for approximately 11,000 years.

Our overnight stay in the quaint town of Los Alamos/White Rock holds historical significance as the birthplace of the first atomic bomb, a pivotal objective of the Manhattan Project conducted by the Los Alamos National Laboratory during World War II.

O/N Holiday Inn Express at Entrada

D 3 LOS ALAMOS - ABIQUIU

98 mi / 5,138 Ft

Departing from Los Alamos, our descent takes us through the captivating White Rock Canyon, sculpted by the south-flowing Rio Grande River through basalt and tuff formations. Continuing into the Santa Clara Pueblo, renowned for its Pueblo potters specializing in black polished and red polychrome pottery, we immerse ourselves in the rich artistic heritage. Our route passes through Española, a historic railroad town that witnessed the settlement of the first European colony in North America 400 years ago. A pit stop at El Paragua restaurant promises a delicious taco treat.

Venturing deeper into the arid and rugged El Rito Mountains, renowned for their pink hues, we encounter the historic Ojo Caliente Hot Springs and traverse El Rito, one of the initial Spanish settlements in Northern New Mexico. Here, we explore the oldest church in New Mexico, steeped in history. Culminating our nearly 100-mile day in the historic outpost of Abiquiú, where the Old Spanish Trail embarked on its pioneering journey to California in 1829, we enter a landscape where artist Georgia O'Keeffe once resided at Ghost Ranch, maintaining a small studio in Abiquiú. Our night unfolds at the Abiquiu Inn, nestled amidst some of the most pristine southwest landscapes in the USA. The modern casitas, adorned in southwestern design with Native American-inspired viga ceilings, offer a truly unique and immersive experience.

Abiquiú unfolds a tapestry of history and culture, ranging from ancient dinosaurs that roamed the area 220 million years ago to Pueblo Ruins from the 13th Century and more recent influences, including the legacy of Georgia O’Keeffe and the Monks of Christ in the Desert.

O/N Abiquiu Inn
Dining onsite

D 4 ABIQUIU- TAOS

98 mi / 7,835 Ft

For those seeking both solitude and breathtaking mountain vistas, today's ride unveils a lesser-known facet of New Mexico. A significant portion of our 49-mile journey traverses a tranquil stretch of highway cutting through the Carson National Forest, ascending to the lofty 10,507-foot Brazos Summit. Spanning between Tierra Amarilla and Tres Piedras, US 64 winds its way over a southern extension of the San Juan Range, often referred to as the Tusas Mountains, showcasing some of the state's most expansive aspen groves. Our ride concludes at 92 miles in Tres Piedras, where a shuttle takes us through the final 30 miles into Taos. Along the way, we pause to absorb the panoramic view from the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, perched 565 feet (172 m) above the Rio Grande River—a notable feat as the seventh highest bridge in the US and 82nd highest globally. Upon arriving in Taos this afternoon, our retreat at Casa Benavides Inn awaits, radiating traditional New Mexico charm.

O/N Casa Benavides Inn
Dining The Love Apple or Medley

D 5 ENCHANTED CIRCLE

85 mi / 5,884 Ft

Strap in for one hell of a ride as we take on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, known as one of the most stunning and picturesque routes in the country. Covering a whopping 85 miles, we'll roll through Red River, Eagles Nest, and Angel Fire, conquering the peak of Bobcat Pass at a whopping 9,820 feet. Brace yourself for a second climb to the towering 9,109-foot Palo Flechado, setting the stage for one of the sickest descents all the way back into Taos. Picture this: Apache warriors once roamed the plains east of these rough mountains, hunting down wild buffalo that roamed the open plains. As we descend back into Taos, the afternoon is ours to own, tearing through the galleries and shops in Old Taos like rebels on a mission.

O/N Hacienda del Sol or Casa Benavides Inn
Dining Sabroso Restaurant & Bar

D6 tAOS PUEBLO &
THE HIGH ROAD TO CHIMAYO

85 mi / 5,884 Ft

Get ready to step into history as we kick off our morning exploring the ancient Taos Pueblo, an iconic multi-storied adobe village that's been standing tall for over a millennium. We'll wander through the pueblo, soaking in the vibes, before revving up for our journey along the High Road to Santa Fe. This 50+ mile stretch of scenic, winding road weaves through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, unveiling a mesmerizing tapestry of high desert, lush forests, towering mountains, and quaint Spanish Land Grant Pueblo Indian villages dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

The highlights are as epic as the road itself – from the Mission in Truchas and the San José de Gracia cathedral in Las Trampas to the renowned Santuario in Chimayó, a major Catholic pilgrimage site drawing a whopping 300,000 visitors annually. Along the way, we'll hit up the tiny mountain town of Truchas, where High Road artisans keep Spanish traditions alive with their kickass wood carvings, paintings, and Indian quilting.

As the day winds down, we'll land in Chimayó, a place that's practically a time machine. Our stay? A quiet country retreat in a restored adobe home, boasting cozy Victorian-style guest rooms opening onto a private garden – old-world charm cranked up to the max. But the excitement doesn't stop there. Tonight, we'll feast like royalty at Rancho de Chimayó, a culinary gem that's been rocking the New Mexico food scene for over 50 years. Picture this: fireplaces casting a warm glow, family photos adorning white-washed adobe walls, and a terraced patio calling you to savor an exquisite outdoor dining experience. Join us at Rancho de Chimayó – not just a meal, but a cherished part of New Mexico's heritage, history, and a damn timeless tradition.

O/N Rancho de Chimayó or Casa Escondida B&B
Dining Rancho de Chimayó

D7 CHIMAYO - SANTA FE

59 mi / 6,429 Ft

Perched amidst the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Chimayo, New Mexico, El Santuario de Chimayo has been a sacred haven since well before its construction in 1813. Drawing diverse worshippers—American Indians, Hispanics, and people of various faiths—for generations, it stands as a place of healing and prayer, evolving into one of the most significant Catholic pilgrimage sites in the United States. Embodying exquisite Spanish Colonial architecture, El Santuario is also renowned as the "Lourdes of America." Welcoming over 300,000 pilgrims annually, with thousands embarking on Holy Week walks from Santa Fe and beyond, this sacred space holds a unique allure.

Embark on an early morning stroll amid the spiritual tranquility of El Santuario in Chimayó, then pay a visit to the iconic Ortega’s Weaving—an esteemed family store producing authentic New Mexican treasures for generations. Descending into the Pojoaque Valley, we traverse the Nambé Pueblo, a historic participant in the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 against Spanish colonization. Riding through quaint settlements, our gradual ascent into Santa Fe takes us to the Santa Fe Ski Area, a cherished local hill climb. Ascending through ponderosa and aspen-filled landscapes in the Santa Fe National Forest via the Scenic Byway, we summit at a breathtaking 10,305 feet above town. Enjoy the exhilarating descent back into Santa Fe, or if you're up for it, make a pit stop at the Japanese Onsen- 10,000 Waves to cap off today's ride.

We stay in the captivating town of Santa Fe, a historical gem steeped in the lore of the American West. Beyond its pueblo-style architecture and rugged landscapes, Santa Fe pulses with a burgeoning alternative arts scene fueled by a creative class pushing the boundaries. Take the opportunity to explore the Georgia O’Keeffe museum, marvel at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, and wander through the renowned Canyon Road galleries—immersing yourself in the vibrant spirit that defines this southwestern town.

O/N Hotel Chimayo - Santa Fe

D8 SANTA FE - TURQUOISE TRAIL & SANDIA PEAK

100 mi / 8,176 Ft

Today, brace yourself for the Turquoise Trail and Sandia Peak adventure as we kick off from Santa Fe, starting our journey via the storied Canyon Road, passing by renowned art galleries. Our route unfolds along the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, a captivating stretch linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe, taking us through central New Mexico. Over the course of roughly 50 miles along Hwy 14, we'll be transported back in time, cruising through the historic mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerillos, now pulsating with vibrant art, crafts, music, and a plethora of cafes and restaurants. A pit stop along the way offers a final jolt of strong coffee before we gear up for the challenge of ascending Sandia Peak, towering above our ultimate destination of Albuquerque.

Climbing along the elevated ridge of the Sandia Mountains, the well-paved, serene road winds through cactus, pine, fir, oak, and aspens, treating us to breathtaking scenery over thirteen and a half miles. The ascent gains a staggering 3,900 feet, culminating at the crest at a lofty 10,648 feet. As we descend back into Albuquerque, we'll cap off our journey with one last night before bidding farewell the following morning.

O/N Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town

D9 AM TRANSFER TO ALBUQUERQUE AIRPORT