Ask anyone who knows. Riding in New Mexico is special. There’s a reason why New Mexico is known as the land of enchantment, and you can see it for yourself if you take a ride on some of the best motorcycle rides in New Mexico.
Motorcycle Rides Near Me In New Mexico
Check out our detailed guide to the top 3 best motorcycle rides in New Mexico! With its rugged mountains, vibrant deserts, and rich history, the Land of Enchantment is perfect for exploring on two wheels. New Mexico’s diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains, make every ride an adventure.
Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway
The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway is one of the best motorcycle rides in New Mexico, taking the motorcycle rider around 13,161-foot-high Wheeler Peak and past some of the most magical scenic views you’ll ever see on a motorcycle.
Follow these steps to ride the Enchanted Circle:
- Start in Taos, and head north on 522 to Questa.
- Take 38 east to Red River.
- Head south, still on 38, to Eagle Nest.
- Follow 64 back to Taos.
The ride should take about two and a half hours in total, but only if you don’t make any stops. On the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, you’re going to want to make some stops!
Here are a few things to look out for on the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway:
- Taos Pueblo, one of the United States’ longest continually inhabited places
- The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, as featured in the movie “Natural Born Killers”
- Red River, home to a popular ski resort
- Bull O’ the Woods Saloon, on Main Street in Red River
- Eagle Nest, an old west frontier town
- The Carson National Forest, where you can see the ruins of old log cabins from the past
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park, with its curving, white memorial wall
This is a ride not to be missed. So many things to see and do in just 115 short miles. It’s a fairly quick ride if you don’t stop, but with all the history and points of interest, you’ll want to at least stretch your legs and soak up the atmosphere.
Route 536 to Sandia Crest
Route 536 to Sandia Crest is a must-ride for motorcycle enthusiasts in New Mexico. Just northeast of Albuquerque, this short but exhilarating stretch offers lots of sharp turns leading you through the beautiful desert and forest areas.
Follow these steps to ride the Sandia Crest Byway:
- Start: Northeast of Albuquerque, NM
- Follow NM-14 north from I-40 east of Albuquerque to NM-536 west.
- Starting at Sandia Park, take NM-536 west for 13.6 miles to Sandia Crest. Be sure to stay on NM-536 past the junction with NM-165.
Here are a few things to look out for on the Route 536 to Sandia Crest
- Once at the summit, you can park and enjoy the breathtaking views of Albuquerque from the scenic overlook.
- The descent requires careful control and frequent downshifts as you navigate the 180-degree turns, but the stunning views along the way make it all worthwhile.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including possible passing showers as you ascend the mountain.
Silver City Loop
The Silver City Loop is an 80-mile journey that starts and ends in the historic town of Silver City. As you fuel up, you might imagine the ghosts of Billy the Kid or Butch Cassidy. This route takes you through stunning landscapes and offers a mix of history and natural beauty.
Directions for the Silver City Loop:
- Start in Silver City and head east towards Santa Clara.
- In San Lorenzo, pick up Route 35 towards the Gila Wilderness.
- Continue on Route 15, a seriously curvy road, passing through Pinos Altos back to Silver City.
- Cross the Continental Divide twice during your ride.
Here are a few things to look out for on the Silver City Loop:
- Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway is used in the Tour of the Gila.
- After leaving Silver City, you won’t encounter another stop light for about 65 miles.
- Climb into juniper and ponderosa pine forests and enjoy fantastic views of red bluffs below.
- Lake Roberts, also known as the Emerald of the Gila, is a popular fishing spot.
- Be prepared for some mountain grade climbs, but the end of the loop is fairly flat, providing a welcome relief after the hills.
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