The whole of the byway doesn’t sit within the national forest (just about 60 miles of it does), but that hardly means you won’t see plenty of fall foliage while you traverse it. While other scenic byways may be more about forests and mountains, this one will show you lots of history, geological formations and indigenous ruins, too. Why you should go: Views that go beyond forestlandĪnother scenic route that traces its way through parts of Santa Fe National Forest, the Jemez Mountain Trail Scenic Byway starts in the tiny village of San Ysidro and then takes you about 165 miles through the forest lands, through small communities, around cliffs and past a natural dam. Jemez Mountain Trail Scenic Byway Photo: Shutterstock Related Read: Fall Foliage 101: Why Do Leaves Change Colors in the Fall? 2. The foliage is, of course, stunning, with lots of golden-yellow and orange hues. You’ll get great views of two mountain ranges (the Jemez Mountains and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains), as well as views of nearby cities such as Santa Fe, Los Alamos and Albuquerque on clear days. The scenic route starts at Santa Fe Plaza and goes to the Santa Fe Ski Area, and features many scenic overlooks along New Mexico Highway 475. This scenic byway within Santa Fe National Forest is only 16 miles long, making it a quick addition to any trip to New Mexico, no matter your reason for visiting. Peak Foliage: Late September to October. ![]() Why you should go: A super-quick hit of fall foliage Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway Photo: Silvio Ligutti Want to know where to find these best fall colors? Check out some of our favorite spots to go leaf peeping in the Land of Enchantment, from scenic drives to hot springs. The state, with its blend of mountains and badlands, thick forests and desert rocks, offers gorgeous fall landscapes come mid-September, especially in the higher elevations. ![]() One of those sometimes-surprising offerings? The fall foliage. While you might imagine cacti and adobe-style abodes when you think New Mexico, this state has a lot more to offer beyond its stereotypes. Think the Southwest is all deserts, all the time? Think again.
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