New Mexico is known as “The Land of Enchantment” and perhaps there is no more enchanting portion of the state than the section due north of Santa Fe. If you like high desert, heavily timbered mountains, crystal clear streams and lakes, huge canyons, steam railroads, history, culture, music, or art…you’ll be glad you visited. So strap on your seatbelts because we’re going to depart Santa Fe headed north on Hwy 84.
Caddy lowrider from Chimayo, NM just north of Española. photo from: http://www.afterimagegallery.com/varjabedianlowrider.htm
The first big town north of Santa Fe on 84 is Española. Española is the acknowledged “Lowrider capitol Of The World” so if you’re interested in custom cars, or catching a car show on your trip, then be sure to cruise through Española on a Friday night. Española is also where you make your decision wether to head northeast to Taos, or continue on northwest on 84 through Abiquiu, and Georgia O’Keefe’s famous Ghost Ranch. For the purposes of this article we’re going to stay on 84 for a little while longer.
View of Chimney Rock at Ghost Ranch. photo from: http://www.casablancadigitalmedia.com/2010/05/landscapes/harvest-moon-over-ghost-ranch/
40 miles further along 84 from Española is the sleepy village of Abiquiu which is home to world famous artist Georgia O’Keefe’s home an studio, Ghost Ranch. Nestled in rolling hills that are multicolored and banded in vibrant pinks, oranges, reds, grays, and green, Ghost Ranch offers tours of the surrounding country, artist workshops, and overnight lodging.
Cumbres & Totel Railroad based in Chama, NM. photo from: http://www.free-desktop-backgrounds.net/Train-wallpapers/Railroad-train-pictures/Chama-new-Mexico-train-on-railroad-steam.html
Further along 84 up near the Colorado Border is the tiny town of Chama, and Chama’s main claim to fame (other than gorgeous scenery and cool summer temperatures) is their fully operational narrow gauge steam railway…the mighty Cumbres & Toltec, named for two gorges the railway passes through. The railroad runs during spring, summer, and fall with occasional winter excursions.
Where are your favorite spots in The Land Of Enchantment? Drop us a line below in the comment section and let us know, and don;t forget if you need anything RV related, you know where to get it: PPL MOTORHOMES!!