Directions
You can drive either westward or eastward from Red River, depending on the activities you would prefer to do first. Plan out what stops you want to make and do them earlier (and make some room for extra pit stops). This will help you get the most out of the Enchanted Circle.
Things to Do on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
Questa, NM
Elevation: 7,461 feet above sea level
If you start your enchanting adventure heading west, it won't be long until you find Questa. This small town has a lot of classic Mexican art for you to enjoy at the Artesanos de Questa.
Red River Fish Hatchery
Additionally, you can hop over to the local fish hatchery and learn how the rainbow trout population is kept up by the people here. You can take a tour of the facility for a cheap price. Just make sure you plan in advance and possibly grab a reservation!
Taos, NM
Driving from Red River, you will eventually come to Taos--the middle point of your journey. It's the biggest of the small towns you will pass by, and because of this has many food options for lunch and dinner.
Here are two of the best Taos restaurants:
Common Fire Tacos
This classy eatery serves up five-star New Mexican cuisine that will make you feel like a king. Grab a New Mexican pork chop and guzzle it down with a drink of your choice.
The Love Apple
The food here is heavenly. Maybe it's because the restaurant was created from an old chapel. You can grab French cuisine here for an amazing value.
Angel Fire
Continue driving around the circle and you'll eventually find the small town of Angel Fire. Here you can visit the Angel Fire resort, which has tickets for ziplining, a bike park, and other high-adrenaline activities!
Eagle Nest Lake
At the end of your journey (unless you started by driving east), you'll find Eagle Nest Lake, where you can swim, fish, and boat all day.
How much is a New Mexico Fishing License?
Resident Annual: $25
Nonresident Annual: $56
One-day: $12
Junior Resident: $5
Junior Nonresident: $15
Wheeler Peak & Taos Ski Valley
Length: 7.3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
Wheeler Peak is the highest point in New Mexico. Standing at 13,159 feet, you can conquer this mountain with your friends and family.
Wheeler Peak is also a great ski resort if you decide to drive the trail in the winter. People often pack up their ski gear as they drive around the Enchanted Circle with the intent of skiing and snowboarding down the snowy mountain.
No matter the route you take, hopefully you'll see that the Enchanted Circle is a highlight of a New Mexican vacation!
