Day Trips from Santa Fe
← All Santa Fe day tripsDay Trips from Santa Fe: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Santa Fe, 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 Santa Fe
Vadito Scenic Viewpoint
Vadito, NM 87579
Just 1 hr 13 min from Santa Fe, 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.
Sandstone Bluff Overlook
NM 87020, USA
Just 2 hrs 12 min from Santa Fe, 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.
Wayside overlook
NM 87575, USA
Just 1 hr 57 min from Santa Fe, 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.
White Rock Overlook
White Rock, NM 87547
Just 41 min from Santa Fe, rated 4.9 stars by 755 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Bridge Viewpoint
Albuquerque, NM 87106
Just 1 hr 5 min from Santa Fe, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Anderson Overlook
Los Alamos, NM 87544
Just 33 min from Santa Fe, rated 4.8 stars by 222 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Byway Colorado State Highway 12
Trinidad, CO 81082
Just 2 hrs 53 min from Santa Fe, 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.
San Diego Canyon Overlook Overlook Site
Santa Fe, NM 87508
Just 1 hr 14 min from Santa Fe, 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.
Scenic View
NM 87718, USA
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Santa Fe, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The IV Overlook
Santa Fe, NM 87506
Just 22 min from Santa Fe, 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.
Apache Canyon Scenic Viewpoint
Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557
Just 1 hr 17 min from Santa Fe, 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.
Vista Grande Overlook Observation Site
NM 87506, USA
Just 29 min from Santa Fe, rated 4.7 stars by 408 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 Santa Fe
What are the best scenic drives near Santa Fe, NM?
The best scenic drives near Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe?
Most scenic drives near Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Santa Fe, 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 Santa Fe?
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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