The Ultimate New Mexico Motorbike Road Trip
Got that wanderlust to jump on the bike and go somewhere? Whether it’s with a group of fellow bike enthusiasts or just a solo escape , a New Mexico motorbike road trip will satisfy that desire to ride into the mountains.
Travel along the unrivalled vistas of the Turquoise Trail and hike to the secluded natural hot springs of Jordan Hot Springs in the Gila National Forest. Join us as we travel from Taos in New Mexico’s north down along the Rio Grande to Las Cruces in the south, exploring the rich tapestry of spectacular scenic views and centuries of culture.
Taos, New Mexico
We start our New Mexico motorbike road trip in Taos for a fascinating insight into the region’s incredible history. Our first stop sits just north of Taos at Taos Pueblo, regarded as one of the United States’ oldest continuously inhabited Native American communities. Now, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Taos Pueblo is believed to have been established in 1000 A.D., where residents still reside in the settlement’s century-old adobe homes.
Another highlight must be to ride across the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge just west of Taos. Not only is the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge one of the tallest bridges in the United States but it’s also blessed with stunning panoramic views. Take the chance to jump off the bike and take a picture as you catch a New Mexico sunset behind this iconic bridge.
Make the most of your stay in Taos by booking your stay in the province’s rolling hills at the Best Western Rivers Edge in Red River, New Mexico.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Heading south along the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway with the snow-capped mountains in the distance, the scenery along the way will amaze you. Explore the astonishing San Francisco de Asis Church in Ranchos De Taos and drop into the many art galleries dotted along the way as you wind through the remote mountain villages on your way to Santa Fe, New Mexico.
As our New Mexico motorbike road trip heads south into the state capital of Santa Fe, the Puebla-style architecture immediately leaps out at you. Famed for its inspiring love of art, be sure to visit the amazing Georgia O’Keeffe Museum before taking a stroll along the artisan area of Santa Fe around Canyon Road.
Stay a few days and elevate your motorcycle road trip by staying at the delightful Best Western Plus Inn of Santa Fe in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Opting to avoid the freeway again, we now head down the picturesque valleys along the Sangre de Cristo and Sandia Mountain ranges. Following the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, which links Santa Fe with Albuquerque, this section of our New Mexico motorbike road trip takes you through the historic ghost mining towns of Cerrillos, Madrid, and Golden.
A trip along the Turquoise Trail wouldn’t be complete unless you detoured to witness the magnificent views from Sandia Crest, in the heart of the Sandia Mountain’s Cibola National Forest. At an impressive elevation of 10,678 feet, the panoramic views from Sandia Crest are unbelievable in every direction. However, if hiking isn’t your thing, you can head straight to Albuquerque for easy access up to the observation deck via the Sandia Peak Tramway.
After an enjoyable day in the mountains, get a great night’s sleep on your motorbike road trip by staying at the Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
San Antonio, New Mexico
Before leaving Albuquerque, we highly recommend a sunrise hot air balloon experience along the almighty Rio Grande Valley with the crew at World Balloon. After this perfect start to the day, we follow the Rio Grande on our New Mexico motorbike road trip down toward San Antonio. We recommend stopping in at the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most biodiverse and largest wildlife refuges in the lower 48 states.
Known for its spectacular hiking, birdwatching, and striking photographic landscapes, Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge is located just outside Socorro. As the highlight of this leg of our biking road trip through New Mexico, here, you can explore the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center and spend a few days wandering along the Nature Loop Trail and San Lorenzo Canyon Trail.
Enhance your escape into nature when you book your accommodation at the Best Western Socorro Hotel & Suites in Socorro, New Mexico.
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Our final leg of our New Mexico motorbike road trip again detours away from the Rio Grande up into the Gila National Forest on our way to our final destination in Las Cruces. Parking the bikes, we highly recommend hiking to the idyllic jewel in the forest known as Jordan Hot Springs, which is believed to be as rejuvenating as it is beautiful. Relax as you swim in the naturally heated pools and soak in the sights and sounds in the heart of the forest.
Heading into Las Cruces may signal the end of our New Mexico motorbike road trip ride, but Las Cruces has a final treat in store for you. Our final recommendation is to meet with the incredible winemakers of the Rio Grande Winery. With regular live music, sit back and enjoy the fruits of America’s oldest wine region over a glass or two of their 2021 Rio Grande Winery Spaniard red wine before you head home.
Complete the perfect motorbike road trip across New Mexico when you stay at the Best Western Mission Inn in Las Cruces, New Mexico.