Top 3 Drivable Getaways & Staycations in New Mexico

Now is the perfect time to begin planning a drivable getaway in New Mexico.

Looking for the best drivable getaways and staycations in New Mexico? With travel plans constantly changing, one thing we can count on is adventures in our own backyard. When you’re ready, the perfect staycation is in reach with a limited commitment on your part.  We hope you’ll consider the following adventures when it’s time to explore New Mexico.

Without further delay, here is our list of the 3 best drivable getaways and staycation destinations in New Mexico:

1. Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument
2. Santa Fe
3. Taos Ski Valley

1. Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument

After spending so much time over the last month or two at your house, treat yourself with some time in the great outdoors.  New Mexico has so many beautiful National Parks and National Monuments to immerse you in nature.  Head up to the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument and spend time in the heart of one of the most amazing Gorges in the West.  As you drive north from Espanola toward Taos, don’t forget to look to your right and take in the views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Truchas Mountain Range.  To your left will be the verdant Rio Grande communities of Alcalde and Velarde, famous for the rare and delicious Alcalde variety of green chile and some of the most delicious apples in the Southwest!  Next you will find yourself weaving and winding through the river canyon with a close-up view of every wave and rock in the river.  Passing through the communities of Embudo and Rinconada, don’t forget to check in at New Mexico River Adventures for a rafting or kayaking trip on the Rio Grande before continuing onto your riverside campsite in the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument.  Here you will find a variety of first come, first serve, developed campsites right on the banks of the Rio Grande.  Each campsite has beautiful hiking trailheads right next door as well as miles and miles of riverbank to explore.  Don’t forget to keep a sharp eye out for Ancient Puebloan Petroglyphs which are scattered throughout the entire canyon as well as the large herds of Rocky Mountain Big Horn Sheep, the guardians of the sheer rock walls above.

2. Santa Fe

Maybe you’re tired of making your bed and cooking another meal?  Consider a drivable getaway to Santa Fe.  With one of the greatest culinary scenes in the country, you will not be disappointed with dinner out in the oldest established capital city in the country.  Try the lamb Barbacoa and one of their incredible and unique Mezcal Cocktails like La Mariposa.  After dinner, stroll back to your room at El Pueblo Bonito Bed and Breakfast and enjoy the quaint and comfortable adobe rooms that Santa Fe is famous for.  In the morning, drive south of town through the Cochiti Pueblo and enter the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument.  Spend the morning hiking the Slot Canyon trail.  This 3-mile loop trail is a classic with views of incredible rock formations and passageways through narrow slot canyons.  Enjoy your picnic lunch at the top of the trail or at the picnic area at the trailhead.  When it’s time to head back to town, stop in at Cochiti Lake for a quick dip.  As you get back to town, get off at the Cerillos Exit and turn right toward the oldest and one of the best local breweries.  Nationally renowned Santa Fe Brewing has a newly renovated taproom with dozens of award-winning brews for you to try.  They have also added a beautiful outdoor space and a food truck to complete your happy hour experience. Of course, we have to mention our favorite activity in the area is white water rafting Santa Fe!   

3. Taos Ski Valley

If it’s starting to get hot where you live, elevate yourself!  Book a room at the new Blake hotel at Taos Ski Valley.  Located right at the base of lift chair #1, the Blake is nestled into the beautiful Southern Sangre De Cristo Mountains.  Start your morning off with a ride up the chairlift to the top of the mountain.  Bring a daypack and plenty of water.  The views of Wheeler Peak, the tallest mountain in New Mexico are second to none.  Enjoy one of the many trails around the top of the mountain or simply find a nice comfortable spot to unwind and breathe in the sweet, Rocky Mountain air.  If you’re a mountain biker, don’t forget your gear!  Taos has a spectacular downhill mountain bike course that is home to new competitions throughout the summer.  If you like adventure, be sure to check out the new Via Ferrata course in 2020.  This narrow pathway made up of cables, ladders and cracks in the rock is a must for any adrenaline junkie.  As well the breathtaking views of the valley below are not to be missed.  Surely it must be time for a happy hour and soak in the Blake’s hot tub which overlooks the Rio Hondo creek.  Don’t forget to make your dinner reservations at the Bavarian, Taos’ well-known German restaurant at the base of Chair #4.  I recommend the Spatzle, a traditional creamy pasta dish paired with one of their delicious Hefeweizen beers on tap!

No matter where you choose to go and what you choose to do, you cannot lose in Northern New Mexico!  Come see for yourself what the perfect mix of culture, extreme sports, nature, and cuisine is all about.  And of course, with far fewer people than you will ever experience in crowded destinations like Colorado.

Contact us to make white water rafting part of your New Mexico driveable getaway and staycation!