Winding through the rugged heart of southwestern New Mexico, the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway offers 95 miles of breathtaking high-desert landscapes and ancient cultural treasures. This National Scenic Byway begins in historic Silver City, a former mining town brimming with Victorian architecture and vibrant arts galleries, before climbing into the Gila National Forest’s pine-covered peaks.

The route traverses dramatic terrain where Apache ancestors once roamed, passing through the charming village of San Lorenzo and ascending mountain passes exceeding 8,000 feet. Your journey culminates at the remarkable Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, where 700-year-old stone dwellings nestle within natural caves—a haunting glimpse into ancestral Puebloan life.

Along the way, discover natural hot springs perfect for soaking weary muscles, pristine wilderness trails, and sweeping vistas of the Continental Divide. Wildlife watchers may spot elk, mule deer, and wild turkeys among the ponderosa pines.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall offers ideal conditions, though autumn brings spectacular golden aspens.

Allow: A full day to properly experience the route’s wonders, including time for short hikes and exploring the cliff dwellings. The winding mountain roads reward unhurried travelers with unforgettable southwestern beauty.

Explore Nearby

• Hovenweep National Monument Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in Colorado
• Cross Canyon Wilderness Study Area — Public Land in Utah
• Canyons of the Ancient National Monument — Public Land in Colorado
• Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum — State Park in Utah
• Mancos State Park — State Park in Colorado