getting here:
go high, go low
The drive to Taos is part of the adventure. After flying into
Albuquerque choose between two recommended routes known
as the High Road and the Low Road. The High Road to Taos
Scenic Byway winds through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains for
56 miles from Santa Fe to Taos, along the way crossing through a
range of landscapes including high deserts, dense forests, alpine
meadows and huge mountain peaks. In addition to a diverse
array of breathtaking natural beauty, the journey is filled with
plenty of culture. Along the way you’ll drive through small towns
and villages, holding impressive remnants of Spanish Colonial
architecture and local artisan shops and galleries. Additional
highlights include the Estrella Del Norte Vineyard, the Nambe
Pueblo and the historic church in Las Trampas. Also stop in
Chimayo to visit some of the famous weaving shops and try the
amazing green chile at Rancho de Chimayo.
On the way back try the Low Road—also known as the River
Road—a more direct route that follows the Rio Grande Gorge.
On the drive you’ll move through narrow canyons with basalt cliffs
above, as well as lush green valleys with gorgeous farmlands and
orchards. Stop by the Bandelier National Monument, take a river
walk on the Vista Verde Trail near Pilar or grab a bite to eat at
Sugar’s in Embudo. You’ll also cross the river on the Rio Grande
Gorge Bridge, an impressive steel structure that’s one of most
popular bridges in America.
The updated modern interior of the Bavarian Chalet,
a taste of the Alps in the American Southwest.
16
5 taos adventures
raft the rio grande
cast for trout
ride downhill
Ride the wild rapids of the Rio Grande in a
whitewater raft. Deep in the river’s legendary
800-foot gorge, you’ll bounce through a
natural rollercoaster as you gawk in awe at
the majestic wide canyon that surrounds.
Two main sections for rafting include the
technical class IV stretch known as the Taos
Box and the beginner-frien H