Day Trips from Las Cruces
← All Las Cruces day tripsDay Trips from Las Cruces: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Las Cruces, NM. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Las Cruces
Scenic view
El Paso, TX 79904
Just 57 min from Las Cruces, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Horse Mountain Scenic View
NM 88061, USA
Just 2 hrs 28 min from Las Cruces, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Sierra Blanca Scenic Lookout
Alto, NM 88312
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mountain View
Scenic Dr, El Paso
Just 52 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Sierra Blanca Viewpoint
NM 88317, USA
Just 1 hr 34 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Haynes Canyon Vista Observation Site
Cloudcroft, NM 88317
Just 1 hr 37 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.8 stars by 206 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
West Overlook 1
El Paso, TX 79912
Just 39 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.8 stars by 412 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Sierra Blanca Viewpoint
NM 88340, USA
Just 1 hr 48 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Main Overlook Point - Franklin Mountain
El Paso, TX 79904
Just 40 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.7 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Drive Park West Rest Stop
El Paso, TX 79902
Just 51 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.7 stars by 108 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic Drive Park East Rest Stop
El Paso, TX 79930
Just 53 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.6 stars by 196 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
San Augustin Pass Overlook of Whitesands and Tularosa Basin
Las Cruces, NM 88011
Just 20 min from Las Cruces, rated 4.6 stars by 236 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Las Cruces
What are the best scenic drives near Las Cruces, NM?
The best scenic drives near Las Cruces include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Las Cruces?
Most scenic drives near Las Cruces range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Las Cruces?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Las Cruces, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Las Cruces?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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