Top Motorcycle Roads in New Mexico
New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, offers motorcyclists a diverse and exhilarating riding experience. From high desert landscapes to forested mountain passes, the state’s varied terrain provides an unforgettable adventure for riders of all skill levels. Before setting out on your New Mexico journey, consider exploring the motorcycle laws in Arizona and Texas if you’re planning a cross-state trip.
1. Sandia Crest Scenic Byway
- Location: Northeast of Albuquerque
- Distance: 17 miles
- Key features: Hairpin turns, high desert, dense forest, steep grade
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Highlights: Spectacular views from Sandia Crest Mountain peak (10,678 feet above sea level)
- Notable attractions: Cibola National Forest
This challenging route offers riders a thrilling ascent through diverse landscapes. As you navigate the hairpin turns and steep grades, you’ll transition from high desert to dense forest, culminating in breathtaking views from Sandia Crest.
2. Route 15 (Silver City to Gila Cliff Dwellings)
- Location: From Silver City to Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
- Distance: Approximately 45 miles
- Key features: Altitude changes, mountain forests, desert cactus fields, cliffs
- Highlights: Unspoiled wilderness, beautiful maintenance
- Notable attractions: Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
This route showcases New Mexico’s diverse ecosystems, taking riders through mountain forests and desert landscapes. The well-maintained road leads to the historic Gila Cliff Dwellings, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.
3. NM-152 (Santa Clara to Caballo)
- Location: From Santa Clara through Emory Pass and Hillsboro
- Distance: 66 miles
- Key features: Technical route with hairpin turns, curves, changing elevations
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Highlights: Spectacular views of mountains and Gila National Forest
NM-152 is a motorcyclist’s dream, featuring technical riding through varied terrain. The route’s challenging curves and elevation changes reward riders with stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and forests.
4. Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
- Location: Starts and ends in Taos
- Distance: Approximately 105 miles
- Key features: Mountain scenery, elevation changes, sweeping bends
- Highlights: Passes through Questa, Red River, and Eagle Nest
- Notable attractions: Taos Pueblo, Bull O’ The Woods Saloon, Old Tymers Cafe, hiking and birdwatching in Eagle Nest
The Enchanted Circle lives up to its name, offering riders a magical journey through some of New Mexico’s most picturesque landscapes. This loop takes you through charming mountain towns and provides ample opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Best Motorcycle Rides in New Mexico
1. Taos-Angel Fire-Mora Loop
- Location: Starts and ends in Taos
- Distance: 102-105 miles
- Key features: Sweeping bends, gentle curves, challenging twists and turns
- Highlights: High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, Pecos Natural Historic Pass
- Notable attractions: Ski resort town of Angel Fire, overlooks on the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway
This diverse loop combines smooth riding with more challenging sections, offering something for every rider. The route showcases the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, with stunning overlooks and historic sites along the way.
2. Silver City Loop
- Location: Starts and ends in Silver City
- Distance: 80 miles
- Key features: Curvy roads, unspoiled wilderness
- Highlights: Crosses the Continental Divide twice
- Notable attractions: Historic town of Silver City, Gila Wilderness, Pinos Altos
The Silver City Loop takes riders through some of New Mexico’s most pristine wilderness areas. Crossing the Continental Divide twice, this route offers a unique perspective on the state’s geography and natural beauty.
3. Sandia Crest Ride
- Location: Starts in San Antonito
- Distance: 17 miles
- Key features: Ascending roadway, hairpin turns
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Highlights: Elevation climb to 10,678 feet above sea level
- Notable attractions: Cibola National Forest
While short in distance, the Sandia Crest Ride packs a punch with its challenging ascent and stunning views. This route is perfect for riders looking to test their skills while enjoying breathtaking scenery.
Planning Your New Mexico Motorcycle Adventure
When planning your motorcycle trip through New Mexico, consider the state’s diverse climate and terrain. Pack appropriate gear for both hot desert conditions and cooler mountain temperatures. It’s also wise to familiarize yourself with the motorcycle laws in Colorado and Oklahoma if you’re venturing into neighboring states.
For those looking to extend their journey, consider exploring the best motorcycle rides in Arizona or the scenic routes in Colorado. These neighboring states offer complementary riding experiences that can enhance your southwestern motorcycle adventure.
New Mexico’s motorcycle scene is as diverse as its landscape, offering riders an unforgettable journey through the heart of the American Southwest. Whether you’re cruising through high desert plains or winding your way up mountain passes, the Land of Enchantment promises an adventure like no other. As you plan your trip, don’t forget to check out the best motorcycle rides in Texas for additional inspiration and to complete your southwestern riding experience.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
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Vishwanath Mathpati
I am Vishwanath Mathpati, a full-time Blogger and Motorcyclist from Bidar, Karnataka. I love writing about my Motorcycles Stories and Riding Gears on this blog.
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