Follow the historic path of narrow gauge railroads through the rugged mountains of northern New Mexico on the Narrow Gauge Scenic Byway. This 9.9-mile State Scenic Byway traces a route steeped in railroad history, winding through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains near the Colorado border where steam locomotives once hauled ore and timber through tight mountain passes.

Along the way, travelers are treated to sweeping views of alpine meadows, dense stands of ponderosa pine and spruce, and dramatic rocky outcrops carved by centuries of wind and water. The Toltec Gorge and the Rio de los Pinos valley provide stunning backdrops, while remnants of the region’s mining and railroading heritage dot the landscape. Keep an eye out for elk, mule deer, and red-tailed hawks soaring above the ridgelines.

The drive itself takes roughly 20 to 30 minutes without stops, but allow at least an hour to pull over at viewpoints and soak in the scenery. Late September through mid-October is ideal, when golden aspens blaze against dark evergreens and crisp mountain air sharpens every vista. Summer months offer wildflower displays and comfortable temperatures for hiking nearby trails.

This short but memorable drive rewards every mile.

Explore Nearby

• Lathrop State Park — State Park in Colorado
• Trinidad Lake State Park — State Park in Colorado
• Penitente Canyon — Public Land in Colorado
• Zapata Falls SRMA — Public Land in Colorado
• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve — Dark Sky Site in Colorado