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Welcome to the Turquoise Trail
Back roads often lead to great discoveries
Venture off the freeway and onto the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, and you'll see what we mean. The Scenic and Historic Area encompasses 15,000 square miles in the heart of central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Enjoy a breathtaking view from atop Sandia Crest, then drive back into history through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos, now coming alive with art, crafts, theater, music, museums and restaurants.
Featured Stops & Shops
The Old West Saloon & Antiques
Gateway to Old Coal Mine Museum! Mining & Western antiques, Old West Photos, souvenirs.
San Marcos Cafe
Long established, well-reviewed country cafe in the European tradition. Continental Cuisine with local favorites. Specialty desserts.
Garden of the Gods Sculpture Center
Sculpture Garden opening soon. Outdoor sculpture setlandscape. in New Mexico's enchanting.
Sandia Peak Summer Chairlift
Enter Cibola National Forest and take a scenic chairlift ride gliding over the lush forest below. The more adventurous can take their own mountain bikes…
Interactive Map of Stops & Shops
Plan Your Day Trip On The Turquoise Trail
The Scenic and Historic Area of the Turquoise Trail encompasses 15,000 square miles in the heart of central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Enjoy a breathtaking view from atop Sandia Crest, then drive back into history through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos, now coming alive with art, crafts, theater, music, museums and restaurants. View Interactive Map »
Upcoming Event
Monday Happy Hour with Bob Staten at the Greenside Cafe
Every MondayMonday Happy Hour with Bob Staten at the Greenside Cafe in Cedar Crest. From 4-7 pm
Event details » View all events »
From Our Forum
- Take the HGTV Dream Home tour!
- Aspects of Clay opens studio co-op
- Movies made on the Turquoise Trail
- Wild Hogs Question
- BLM & SF National Forest host Open Houses on Turquoise Trail
National Scenic Byway
On June 15, 2000 the Turquoise Trail received designation as a National Scenic Byway from the The National Scenic Byways Program after completing a comprehensive corridor management plan.The plan is available for review here »





