Where the Plains Meet the Mountains

In Northeast New Mexico, expansive grasslands give way to steep mesas and volcanic formations shaped over millennia. The region carries traces of Indigenous, Hispanic, and ranching traditions that remain visible in its architecture, cuisine, and community festivals. Travelers can follow historic corridors through quiet towns, stop to explore ancestral sites, or hike through open landscapes rich with wildlife!

Cimarron: Ghost Towns and The Wild West

Cimarron is a small town with a storied past. As much a home to gunslingers and Wild West legends as it was to ranchers and pioneers. Nowadays, it’s home to the Philmont Scout Ranch, a hub for hikers and high-adventure seekers (open to the public year-round). While you’re here, visit the St. James Hotel, rumored to be haunted and once frequented by Jesse James and Wyatt Earp. Cimarron Canyon State Park is filled with fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities.

Las Vegas: Victorian Architecture and Hollywood History

Feel like stepping back in time? Take a stroll through Historic Las Vegas Plaza and admire over 900 preserved buildings, including the iconic Plaza Hotel, with its grand rooms and old-timey saloon. For relaxation, you’ll find local hot springs near the renowned Montezuma Castle. You can also visit legendary filming locations for movies like No Country for Old Men and Longmire.

Pecos: Scenic Trails & Civil War History

Head to the Pecos Wilderness for hiking, horseback riding, and high-elevation lakes. Here you’ll find cooler-than-average weather due to its elevation. Tour the Pecos National Historical Park where you’ll encounter Pueblo ruins, Spanish missions, and even a Civil War battlefield!

Raton: High Desert Views & Cultural Gems

Tucked into the northeast corner of the state, Raton sits along what was once the Santa Fe Trail and later became a key stop on the rail line. Its early growth was shaped by mining, ranching, and its strategic location near the Raton Pass—now a scenic route for travelers heading into Colorado. The town’s historic center is home to the Shuler Theater and the Raton Museum, both central to the local arts district. Just outside town, Sugarite Canyon State Park boasts hiking trails, top-notch birdwatching, and quiet lakeside spots for picnicking.

Santa Rosa: Route 66 Nostalgia & Natural Springs

Santa Rosa offers travelers a mix of history and natural appeal, anchored by its spring-fed Blue Hole, a deep, clear pool that attracts swimmers and scuba divers year-round. Cruise through the Route 66 Auto Museum for classic car culture and appreciate one of the most iconic roads in the world! Explore nearby lakes, fishing spots, and family-friendly RV and camping parks.

Tucumcari: Vintage Vibes and Dinosaur Bones

Tucumcari continues to draw travelers with its bold murals and preserved stretches of Route 66. The Blue Swallow Motel remains a popular place to stay, especially for folks visiting Conchas Lake State Park. Stop by Mesalands Dinosaur Museum to see life-size fossil casts or visit the Tucumari Historical Museum to embrace local history. If you’re hungry, Watson’s BBQ (tucked inside the Tucumcari Ranch Supply) is a well-kept secret among New Mexico foodies.