The High Road to Taos is a popular scenic byway in New Mexico that winds through the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, past snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and traditional Spanish and Pueblo villages. Plus, with over 50 art studios, galleries, and historical sites, the High Road to Taos offers plenty to see and do. Whether you are starting your vacation in Taos or ending it there, taking the scenic drive along the High Road to Taos is something you should add to your must-do list during your Taos vacation.
No matter where you begin, in either Santa Fe or in Taos, be sure to add these stops along your drive on the High Road to Taos.
Driving details
Total distance: 105 miles
Driving time: without stops (but who are you kidding!) two and a half hours
Beginning at Hotel La Fonda de Taos at the Taos Plaza take HWY 68 south
Town of Chimayo
As one of the most popular stops along the High Road to Taos, the town of Chimayo is famous for a small adobe church believed to have healing properties. Many make the pilgrimage to visit El Santuario de Chimayo to pray and absorb its unique healing powers. Plan to spend some time here, as the grounds offer beautiful gardens and art to admire.
Las Trampas
Las Trampas is a National Historic Site, surrounded by a sturdy wall to protect it from enemies. While the wall has since been removed, what remains is a classic Spanish adobe church. The San Jose de Gracia church has served the community for over 250 years. It remains as one of the best-kept representations of the Spanish Colonial style.
Picuris Pueblo
Picuris Pueblo is a historic pueblo nestled in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and is the nave for mica-infused pottery, art festivals, and its ancient adobe church. If you time it just right, in the summer, Picuris Pueblo is host to the Country Arts and Crafts Fair, where visitors can shop for pottery, jewelry, and other artful forms.
San Juan De Los Logos Church
Located in the small town of Talpa, NM lies a small church with a big name; Chapel of Nuestra Senora de San Juan de Los Lagos del Rio Chiquito. Built-in 1828, the church is now simply here for visitors to admire and appreciate.
San Francisco de Asis
In Ranchos de Taos visitors will find the famous San Francisco de Asis Church. As one of the most photographed and painted churches – made famous by Georgia O’Keefe and Ansel Adams – it is the most anticipated stop along the High Road to Taos. Be sure to also explore the many art galleries and shops that line the town’s plaza.
High Road Art Tour
While you can shop and visit the art galleries and studios that sprinkle the scenic byway from beginning to end all year round, The High Road Art Tour is the best time to discover the artists and artisans who make this scenic byway an art lovers dream. Always the last two full weekends of September, the tour offers several farmer’s markets and studio tours. Download the official guide map here.
Stay at Hotel La Fonda de Taos
No matter if you are starting in Taos or in Santa Fe, make your home-base for exploring the High Road to Taos at the Hotel La Fonda de Taos. Located in the Taos Plaza, we offer an excellent location for exploring all that Taos has to offer. Our comfortable rooms offer charming southwest details and well-appointed furnishings to make your stay with us enjoyable and memorable.
