This Epic One-Day Road Trip Across New Mexico Is Full Of Adventures From Sunrise To Sunset
By Melissa Mahoney|Published August 31, 2022
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I grew up in New England before moving to SoCal for several years. I then lived in NYC or a year before moving to AZ in 2009. I worked in the entertainment industry for many years of my adult life and have a deep love for photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream!
Are you ready for an adventure that starts just before dawn and ends just after the sun sets? Take our epic one-day road trip in New Mexico which incorporates some of the state’s most scenic spots. From sunrise to sunset and the time in between, this day is filled with adventure!
One thing to keep in mind: check the sunrise and sunset times before you head out on this trip…you don’t want to miss the colorful skies that begin and end the day! And use our interactive map as your guide.
Sometimes it's worth getting up before dawn to take in the sunrise. And one of the best places to watch the sunrise is at Santa Rosa Lake. Consider camping at Santa Rosa Lake State Park the night before in order to easily roll out of bed to catch the early morning colors.
After watching the sunrise, fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Sun & Sand Restaurant. Located on Route 66 in Santa Rosa, this diner offers deliciously large portions at fair prices.
Our next stop is where you can rest and relax for a while in a scenic setting. Soak your cares and stresses away at Montezuma Hot Springs. The mineral waters here are said to be warm and healing. Just one visit here and you can find out for yourself!
Next, you'll head to Dwan Light Sanctuary which is found on the United World College campus. This peaceful, meditative space has prisms that catch the light and create both patterns and rainbow effects throughout the space. It's mesmerizing to say the least.
We now head to Canyon Road in Santa Fe. Bring your walking shoes so you can comfortably stroll down the street and visit the numerous art galleries and shops that are found here.
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6. Santa Fe Ski Basin
Ski Basin Road, Ski Basin Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87501, USA
End your day by watching a multi-colored sunset at the Santa Fe Ski Basin. Take in the colorful hues and marvel at how enchanting the Land of Enchantment truly is.
Depending on the sunset, you may want to time dinner at La Choza either before or after heading to Santa Fe Ski Basin. But this is one place you won't want to miss dining at! La Choza offers some of the best and most authentic New Mexican cuisine in Santa Fe!
Are you ready to take this epic one-day road trip in New Mexico from sunrise until sunset? What are some of your favorite places along this route? Tell us in the comments.
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