The Enchanted Circle

New Mexico's Enchanted Circle is an 84 mile (135 kilometer) scenic highway which circles Wheeler's Peak - New Mexico's highest mountain - and Angel Fire is a perfect place to start your drive. You can head north through Eagle's Nest to Red River, a charming ski and tourist town with Western-style souvenir shops. It's a fun place to stop for a bite and a bit of shopping.

From Red River you'll go north to Questa, where you can pick up an excellent traditional Mexican meal if you haven't already eaten.

A short ways from Questa is the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, which includes the Rio Grande Gorge. You can look into the gorge from various points or even hike down to the river level if you have the energy. The recreation sites managed by the B.L.M., includes a visitor center, campground, and picnic area. There is a lot to do here -- you can easily make a day out of this stop alone.

Wild Rivers Recreation Area

Going Southeast from Questa on the Enchanted Circle, you will be heading toward Taos. You can stop by D.H. Lawrence's Memorial, or keep continuing on.

We think Taos deserves its own day trip from Taos, but if you have time you can grab a bite in one of the many great Taos Restaurants, or take a side trip to see the Rio Grand Gorge Bridge which is spectacularly breathtaking.