Santa Fe Scenic Byway

Winding its way up to the Santa Fe Ski Area, the drive starts from the Santa Fe Plaza. The road follows Little Tesuque Creek, past the Santa Fe Institute and up to Hyde Memorial State Park. The trees quickly transition from pinion and juniper to ponderosa, Douglas fir and aspen. A variety of pullouts provide spectacular views of the valley, from Albuquerque in the south to Los Alamos and the Jemez Mountains across the Rio Grand Valley. Many trails lead off into the mountains along mountain roads. In early October the Aspens turn their signature yellow and red and the Ski Area runs the quad-chairlift for people to take in the color. Plan about an hour and a half round trip driving.

From the Plaza take Washington Ave north to Artist Road and take a right. Continue until you reach the Ski Area.