Off the Beaten Path: 5 Must-See NM Hidden Gems to Explore

What Are the Best NM Hidden Gems to Explore? Well, let’s first start with what’s the first thing you think of when I ask you what New Mexico is known for? Deserts? Aliens? Chiles? It’s all that and a whole lot more! Whether you’re planning your first trip to New Mexico or have lived here for many years here are a few must-do things around the state. No gatekeeping here- please enjoy our top NM hidden gems and see the most beautiful parts of “The Land of Enchantment”.

Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument
Carlsbad Caverns
Taos Pueblo
Santa Rosa Blue Hole
White Sands National Park

1. Why Is Rio Grande Del Norte One of the Top NM Hidden Gems?

Located from the Colorado border all the way down to our headquarters south of Taos is a vast ecosystem with 242,555 acres of mountains, dormant volcanoes, the Rio Grande and the deep rift valley creating the gorge. You can spend weeks exploring the area by hiking, biking, rafting, camping, and fishing. If you only have a short time to spend in the Monument, I highly recommend a hike along the West Rim Trail starting at the Gorge Bridge rest area at sunset. This hike rewards you with breathtaking views of the gorge along the volcanic plateau as well as the 650ft high Gorge Bridge! Of course, our favorite part of the state contains one of our favorite rivers to raft.

2. Are the Carlsbad Caverns a Hidden Gem in New Mexico?

Hidden deep below the Chihuahuan Desert is an extensive system of caves and caverns. Between 4 and 6 million years ago the caverns began to form through spleleogenesis. This is where hydrogen rich water in the ground mixed with rainwater and formed sulfuric acid cutting through the limestone deposits. Leaving behind large gypsum deposits, clay and more which have then created stalactites and stalagmites. There are many guided and self-guided trips in the caverns. Please visit the National Park Service website to find out about times and entrance fees.

3. What Makes Taos Pueblo a Cultural Hidden Gem in NM?

The Taos Pueblo is the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States which has designated it as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as a National Historical Landmark. For over 1,000 years ancestors of the current Taos natives have been inhabiting these adobe buildings. For visiting hours and fees please visit the Taos Pueblo website. After learning more about the indigenous land and people, you can purchase their ar,t including moccasins, drums, pottery, and silver jewelry. For detailed local area info near Taos and the Gorge, see our Embudo guide.

4. Why Is the Blue Hole in Santa Rosa a Hidden Gem in New Mexico?

Just off Route 66 in Santa Rosa is the Blue Hole. Just as the name suggests this is a deep hole filled with crystal blue waters. First explored in 2013, this desert oasis is over 130 feet deep and connected to other lakes underground with a cave system. You can swim in it or for those with a current diver certification permit and looking for a little more exploration you can dive into the depts of the hole and connecting caves. Children, seniors, and those with disabilities can also take advantage of fishing for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, green sunfish and more at Blue Hole!

5. Is White Sands National Park Considered a Hidden Gem in NM?

Dunes of white gypsum sand take over 275 square miles of desert in southern New Mexico. The large dunes are formed from the evaporation of an ephemeral lake with very high mineral content. As the evaporation continues to happen the gypsum deposits are wind transported to the sand dunes. Some sections of the dunes travel more than 30 feet per year due to changing wind patterns and park maintenance plow the roadways much like they would plow snow. Plan your vacation by visiting the National Park website for fees and visiting hours as well as packing a sled to race down the dunes on! White Sand Dunes is one of the few dog friendly national parks – just remember the sand can get very hot on their paws and always follow leash laws as well as leave no trace principles.

What is the most underrated destination in New Mexico?

At New Mexico River Adventures, we believe that places like the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument and Santa Rosa’s Blue Hole are some of the state’s most underrated destinations. These hidden gems offer exceptional opportunities for rafting, hiking, and exploring New Mexico’s rugged beauty far from the crowds.

Are there any secret swimming spots in New Mexico?

Absolutely. One of our favorites is the Santa Rosa Blue Hole—a clear, spring-fed oasis that’s ideal for swimming and even diving with the proper certification. It’s a refreshing surprise in the middle of the high desert and one of the true hidden treasures in the state.

Is White Sands worth visiting?

While it’s becoming more popular, White Sands still surprises many of our guests. The vast, white gypsum dunes are otherworldly—and best of all, it’s one of the few national parks where dogs are welcome. We always suggest adding it to any NM road trip.

How Can You Discover More NM Hidden Gems on Your Next Trip?

We hope you explore some of our favorite spots during your travels around this diverse and awe-inspiring state and reach out to us if you have more questions. Planning more than just NM Hidden Gems? Check out our New Mexico Summer Vacation Itinerary for full trip ideas or our 24 Hours on the Rio Grande if you’re ready for some whitewater thrills.