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Albuquerque and Santa Fe are only about an hour apart by highway. So visiting both on a getaway is very doable. However, there is a slower route that will introduce you to more of New Mexico when visiting the two cities called the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway. We traveled the trail and enjoyed slowly wandering from Albuquerque to Santa Fe. Since we went at a slow pace, we didn't see as much as we would have liked to. However, we thoroughly enjoyed the adventure. Follow our discoveries:
Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site
Our first stop along the Turquoise Trail welcomed us to the history and fabric of New Mexico. We arrived early -- about 9AM in the morning -- and the peace of morning was perfect for exploring this sacred site.
The Tijeras Pueblo was inhabited from about 1313 to 1425. The main structure built at the site was 200 rooms constructed in a U shape. Following the trail, signs revealed history reflecting archaeological discoveries at each point. One trail winded us up above the structure of one building which was underground below us. The Pueblo have asked that the structures remain buried, so they are underground throughout the site.
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| When standing on the hill at Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site, you are standing on the adobe walls of the pueblo. |
Over the years, adobe walls of the structures succumbed to the forces of nature. Windblown sand would cover their remains. Water and its presence or lack of it is so vital to this region and its history. Abandonment of the civilization may have been due to drought and lack of water.
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| Pinyon pines and other native plants create a beautiful landscape at Tijeras Pueblo. |
Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site is remarkably peaceful and you can almost feel the essence of the ancient civilization around you.
There is a museum which does have limited hours with a season of Memorial Day through the Balloon Fiesta. However, the self guided tour was very informative and provides insight into the history of the Pueblo.
Sandia Crest
Sandia Crest is the highpoint in New Mexico's Sandia Mountains at 10,678 feet in elevation. Just as the name reveals, this point is along a crest rather than a summit. Spectacular views of Albuquerque, surrounding mountains, jagged rock formations, and valleys dazzled as we explored the crest. A short hike nearby introduces you to native vegetation. We did pause at a variety of points while winding up and down the mountain to revel in additional views. We returned the next day of our trip to enjoy additional hiking on the mountain exploring more of the treasures of Cibola National Forest.
Small parking fees do apply, so please watch out for the pay boxes.
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| Breathtaking mountain view from Sandia Crest. |
Madrid
Madrid is a former mining town that is now a creative community full of interesting shops. We stopped to eat the The Mine Shaft Tavern & Cantina which served up some absolutely delicious food! The tavern is actually home to New Mexico's longest bar. The tavern was originally built in 1897 and had to be reconstructed in 1947 after a fire.
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| Wandering Madrid, New Mexico. |
Enjoying the tavern and walking through town, you can feel the ghosts of the town's past. In fact, Madrid was a ghost town after mines closed in the 1950s. There is a gritty feel despite the town's resurrection as an artist enclave.
The Mine Shaft Tavern is a fun spot and is lively with music on weekends. The restaurant is decorated with beautiful murals. We found the food to be dynamite as well. So, don't miss trying out this spot and shopping the small businesses of Madrid on your trip along the Turquoise Trail.
Along the highway, we discovered a variety of view points where you can admire the stunning New Mexico landscape. I recommend stopping at these points to soak in nature's beauty and take a few photos. Overall, we loved the calm drive in the countryside. Such a wonderful, relaxing pace for a getaway!
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| Arid yet picturesque mountainous New Mexico landscape between Cerrillos and Santa Fe. |
Santa Fe
Kakawa Chocolate House is a must-visit in Santa Fe. Kakawa focuses on creating elixirs representative of traditional Pre-Columbian, Mesoamerican, Mayan, and Aztec chocolate elixirs. Recipes are in fact based from these traditional recipes dating from 1000 BC to the mid-1900's. So, sipping one of the elixirs offers a window back in time through taste.
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| A decadent chocolate elixir in a lovely, petite blue design mug at Kakawa in Santa Fe. |
Hospitality was a star at Kakawa as we were immediately invited to sample elixirs even though we arrived on a busy Friday. As a chocolatier, Kakawa does share other offerings including truffles, baked items, homemade ice cream, and more. The chocolatier truly serves its mission of reintroducing us to chocolate. During my adventure, I had to have two treats -- a Mayan elixir and a prickly pear truffle. Amazing!
If you are looking for a spot to wind down and love chocolate, this really is it. While sipping the elixirs, you will slow down awhile simply to savor.
Time to wander downtown Santa Fe invited us to explore America's oldest capital city. Both the oldest home and oldest church in the USA stand in this very historic district of Santa Fe. Downtown Santa Fe bustles with activity. We began our adventure near the state capital building, then began uncovering landmarks. Additionally, shops and restaurants offer local flavors and products of the city. Loretto Chapel featuring the Miraculous Staircase that spirals without support is another favorite stop in this historic section of Santa Fe.
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| Originally constructed in 1610, the San Miguel Chapel was restored in 1710 after the Pueblo Revolt. |
Since we had a few stops in Santa Fe to make before returning to our homebase in Albuquerque, we did not have a much time to explore the Turquoise Trail as we would have liked. On a return visit, I would like to stop in the mining town of Cerrillos or wander more of the trails.
Albuquerque
Albuquerque was our homebase. Even though it is one terminus of this route, we discovered so much there, I will be creating more articles in the next few weeks so all of you can explore Albuquerque with me.
- Escaping the Sun in The Bosque Along the Rio Grande in Albuquerque
- Hiking at Sandia Crest and in Cibola National Forest
- Petroglyphs, Views, Lizards, and Roadrunners at Petroglyph National Monument in New Mexico
- Learning About the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
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