Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

Follow the twisty, scenic back roads between Albuquerque and Santa Fe and see where early explorers sought gold and found turquoise. Abandoned mining towns, hills dotted with piñon, vast mountain vistas and rugged rock formations can be seen along this 52-mile drive that parallels Interstate 25. Follow I-40 east from Albuquerque to Tijeras – about 15 miles. Take exit 175 onto New Mexico 14 North, and you will pass through three mountain ranges. Well worth the drive.