Winding 62 miles through the heart of New Mexico, the Turquoise Trail connects Albuquerque to Santa Fe along historic NM 14, offering an enchanting alternative to the interstate. This National Scenic Byway traces ancient trading routes where turquoise was prized long before Spanish explorers arrived.

The journey begins in Tijeras and climbs through the Sandia Mountains, where piñon-juniper woodlands give way to sweeping high-desert vistas. Stop in the quirky artist village of Madrid, once a ghost town now reborn with galleries, cafes, and colorful characters. Continue to Cerrillos, where weathered adobe buildings whisper tales of Wild West mining days.

Along the route, you’ll encounter the Sandia Crest viewpoint, abandoned mine sites, and the distinctive landscape of the Ortiz Mountains. The terrain shifts from golden grasslands to forested hills, with the Sangre de Cristo range beckoning on the northern horizon.

Spring and fall offer ideal driving conditions—mild temperatures, brilliant wildflowers in May, and golden cottonwoods in October. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms that paint dramatic skies.

Allow three to four hours for a leisurely drive with stops, or a full day to explore Madrid’s shops, hike local trails, and savor green chile at a roadside cafe. The Turquoise Trail rewards those who take their time.

Explore Nearby

• Big Spring State Forest Picnic Area — State Park in Pennsylvania
• Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in New Mexico
• Manzano Wilderness Study Area — Public Land in New Mexico
• Cerrillos Hills State Park — State Park in New Mexico
• El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail — Public Land in New Mexico