Wind through the untamed heart of New Mexico on the Bureau of Land Management Back Country Byway, a state-designated scenic route that showcases the raw, rugged beauty of the American Southwest. This drive takes you deep into public lands where vast desert mesas, ancient rock formations, and sweeping valleys stretch endlessly beneath wide-open skies.

Along the way, watch for pronghorn antelope, raptors soaring on thermal currents, and the subtle beauty of high desert wildflowers in spring. The landscape shifts between juniper-dotted hillsides, red-rock arroyos, and expansive grasslands that glow golden at sunset. Pull over at unmarked overlooks where the silence is absolute and the views seem to reach forever.

This is a route for adventurous travelers comfortable on unpaved roads. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and drivers should carry extra water, a spare tire, and a full tank of gas — services are sparse out here.

The best time to drive is spring through early fall, when roads are dry and temperatures are manageable. Allow a full half-day to explore at a leisurely pace, stopping often to photograph the stark, photogenic terrain that makes New Mexico the Land of Enchantment.

Explore Nearby

• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area — Public Land in Nevada
• Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park — State Park in Nevada
• Ice Age Fossils State Park — State Park in Nevada
• Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area — Public Land in Nevada
• Death Valley National Park Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in California