The Enchanted Circle is a must-see for anyone visiting New Mexico. New Mexico has been known as the Land of Enchantment for generations. After seeing that title, the ever-popular Enchanted Circle must be sparking some curiosity, right. The Enchanted Circle is the scenic 83-mile loop that encompasses everything that is unique to northern New Mexico. There is plenty to do and see in this circle.
Here are a few of the top things you won’t want to miss on your adventure to the Enchanted Circle:
Red River
This is a great starting point, especially if you are staying in a property managed by Reservations Unlimited. Time seems to slow down as you enter this town, going back to simpler times. Guests have actually told us that you can’t help but relax as soon as you approach this magical place. The best way to enjoy your time in Red River is to see it through the eyes of explorers long ago, on horseback! At Bobcat Pass Adventures you can experience Red River on horseback or on an ATV. See the beautiful Carson National Forest back to the Old River Pass. Make sure to stay for one of their Cowboy Evenings. In its 25th season, it provides a western adventure you must experience. It’s a must-do event while visiting Red River! After your horseback ride, you can then swing by Main Street for an authentic Western Saloon experience. Bull O’ the Woods Saloon was established in 1939 and is reminiscent of the Old West, complete with wood floors and swinging saloon doors.
Eagle Nest
Next stop in the Enchanted Circle is Eagle Nest. While here make sure you visit the Eagle Nest Lake State Park. This is the perfect place for an outdoor adventure. Its scenery makes it all the more special. This park includes opportunities to go camping, boating, hiking, birding, fishing, and horseback riding. These are all the ingredients for an unforgettable experience.
Angel Fire
This section of the Enchanted Circle has an interesting history. Angel Fire is the youngest of the villages in the Enchanted Circle, becoming a reality in the 1960s. However, driving over Palo Flechado Pass is the highlight of Angel Fire. Enjoy the scenic view as you travel over the 9,101 foot Palo Flechado Pass and down into the Canyon of the Rio Fernando de Taos! There are picnic areas, campsites, and many trails through the canyon for you to explore.
Taos
This Enchanted Circle city is full of Native American culture. It has been described as a place of convergence of cultures, of like minds, and new perspectives. To really experience Taos you need to visit the Taos Pueblo. Taos Pueblo is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. The multi-story adobe buildings have been continuously inhabited for over a 1,000 years. That’s pretty impressive architecture, wouldn’t you say?
Questa
When in Questa you must explore the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. It is now a part of our National Conservation Lands. It was established as a National Monument as a result of input from the local community, sportsmen, ranchers, small business owners and people across northern New Mexico. The national monument protects the heritage of this region’s diverse Hispanic and Native American communities, protect wildlife habitat prized by hunters and anglers. This area is a must-see while exploring the Enchanted Circle.
These must-sees are just scraping the surface as the Enchanted Circle offers an abundance of wildlife, heritage, and culture. These villages and towns are each unique in their own way. You don’t want to miss all that this truly magical part of New Mexico has in store. Start your outdoor adventure today!