The Wild Rivers Backcountry Byway In New Mexico Takes You From The Plains To A Gorge And Back
By Courtnie Erickson|Published September 20, 2021
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
There are more than two dozen scenic byways in New Mexico, and any of these drives could be at the top of your bucket list. However, there is one in particular — the Wild Rivers Backcountry Byway — that is absolutely stunning. This short, 13-mile route takes drivers along varying terrain to see some of the most spectacular views in the Land of Enchantment.
The Wild Rivers Backcountry Byway, also known as NM-378, is a 13-mile loop road. This byway is located in northern New Mexico and is approximately 26 miles north of Taos.
The Wild Rivers Backcountry Byway is an extension of NM-378 and will give you access to the BLM’s Wild Rivers Recreation Area. In the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, you will travel on a paved road along the stunning Rio Grande River.
As you continue your drive, you will experience some of the state’s most breathtaking sights. Make sure you pull over at one (or all!) of the overlooks that are along this scenic byway in New Mexico.
To reach the overlook, you will need to take a short 0.3-mile trail and the trailhead begins at the La Junta Campground. At this lookout, you will see where the Red River joins the Rio Grande River. It is stunning.
As you continue your drive, you’ll pass the Wild Rivers Visitor Center. Stop in to learn even more about this drive and the surrounding area.
As you complete your drive, the loop will bring you right back to where you started, through the gorgeous sagebrush flatlands. Even this area of land has a unique beauty about it.
