When most people are in search of “fall colors” they think of heading to New England, but nobody does fall better than the Rocky Mountains!
The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway is an 80 mile route that circles Wheeler Peak (the state’s tallest mountain) and connects towns like Taos, Red River, and Angel Fire.
The road from Santa Fe to Taos is probably one of the most culturally significant drives in New Mexico and the fall foliage in the Carson Forest is just a bonus really. A stop in Chimayo is a must.
This road that connects Albuquerque and Santa Fe is a much more scenic option than the interstate. Part of the Cibola National Forest, besides fall colors, you might just spot bighorn sheep, black bears, mule deers, and other critters.
I’m not sure if I’d want to tackle this road in the winter, but the fall is perfect. Pass through the Carson National forest for plenty of views of fiery aspens.
At the southern end of the state not far from White Sands National Park there’s a 16 mile stretch of road surrounded by aspens. Start in Cloudcroft and go south to Sunspot along the Sacramento Mountains.