Kristina Graff Photography

The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to explore the breathtaking beauty of central New Mexico. This trail covers an area of 15,000 square miles and connects Albuquerque, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the top of Sandia Crest. For a truly immersive experience of the area's natural beauty, it is highly recommended that you take a detour from the freeway and travel through the byway. As you go along the route, you will come across the historic mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos - each of which has been revitalized with many arts and crafts, theaters, music, museums, and restaurants. This scenic and historically rich area encompasses a vast expanse in the heart of central New Mexico.