Turquoise Trail

The Turquoise Trail

The Turquoise Trail is a scenic byway that winds its way through the heart of New Mexico’s Turquoise Country. The trail is home to a variety of historic and cultural attractions, as well as stunning natural beauty.

One of the highlights of the Turquoise Trail is the town of Santa Fe. Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the United States, and it is home to a wealth of art, history, and culture. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, galleries, and historical sites, or simply wander the streets and soak up the atmosphere.

Another popular destination on the Turquoise Trail is the town of Taos. Taos is known for its art community, its Native American culture, and its beautiful scenery. Visitors can visit the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take a hike in the nearby mountains.

The Turquoise Trail is also home to a number of working ranches, where visitors can learn about the history of ranching in New Mexico. There are also a number of wineries and breweries along the trail, where visitors can sample local wines and beers.

The Turquoise Trail is a great place to experience the best of New Mexico. With its historic towns, beautiful scenery, and abundance of activities, the Turquoise Trail has something to offer everyone.

The History

The history of the Turquoise Trail dates back to the early Pueblo people, who mined turquoise in the area as early as 900 A.D. The Spanish explorers who arrived in the area in the 16th century also took an interest in the turquoise, and they began to mine it for trade.

In the 19th century, the discovery of gold and silver in the area led to a mining boom. The Turquoise Trail became a major transportation route for miners and supplies, and it was also a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure.

The mining boom eventually came to an end, but the Turquoise Trail remained an important part of the region’s history and culture. In the 1970s, a group of local residents began working to preserve the trail and its historic sites. Their efforts were successful, and the Turquoise Trail was designated a National Scenic Byway in 2000.

Towns along the Turquoise Trail

• Santa Fe
• Madrid
• Cerrillos
• Golden
• Tijeras
• Sandia Park
• Placitas
• Bernalillo
• San Ysidro
• Cochití Pueblo
• Santa Clara Pueblo
• Taos

Things to do along the Turquoise Trail

• Visit historic sites, such as the Palace of the Governors in Santa Fe and the San Miguel Mission in Santa Fe.
• Explore art galleries and museums, such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe and the New Mexico Museum of Mining and Minerals in Golden.
• Shop for souvenirs and gifts at the many boutiques and shops along the trail.
• Dine at one of the many restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines, from traditional New Mexican to international fare.
• Go hiking, camping, fishing, or boating in the nearby mountains and rivers.
• Visit Native American pueblos and learn about their culture and history.
• Sample local wines and beers at one of the many wineries and breweries along the trail.