We did a lot in Northern New Mexico, but only scratched the surface. Here are a few of the excursions that didn’t fit into any of the previous posts about the trip.
One morning, after eating breakfast at our Airbnb, we took a drive. We drove from Dixon to Taos on Hwy 68 and then took State Road 518 to Peñasco, part of which is referred to as the High Road to Taos. Peñasco is just 17 minutes from Dixon
We stopped at the Apache Canyon Scenic Viewpoint for Fritzi to stretch her legs, and for us to take a few photos.
Peñasco was our destination and we lunched at Sugar Nymph Bistro, something I wrote about in post one.
The Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center is worth a stop. We saw a lot of rafting buses meeting their guests there. It’s not far from Dixon and educates visitors about the area, which is dominated by the Rio Grande River and creeks that run into it.
Now for something completely different. During our drives around the area we’d seen the Classical Gas Museum, and made a point to stop. You should too. Not only is there a colorful collection of gas station paraphernalia, the owner, Johnnie Meier, is a character you need to meet.
This place is chockablock with things from old gas station signs and pumps, to all sorts of little bits and pieces that car folks will appreciate. If you like cars, gas stations, the fifties, interesting people, or just enjoy a little Americana, a stop here is a must. Plus, it’s dog friendly. The museum is free but donations are welcome and go to the Dixon Animal Protection Society.
We’d driven to Dixon, New Mexico, via Antonito, Colorado. Ryan had to see the Indiana Jones House (remember this?). So, we drove back on State Road 522, making a stop at the Wild Rivers Visitors Center. We wanted to inspect this area for future camping trips we might make to the area. The multiple campsites sit at the cliffs edge high above the Rio Grande River.
At the visitors center, I became obsessed with the hummingbirds.
On the way back out to the main road, Ryan stopped. I wanted a closer look at this church and incredible cemetery. Although I am not Catholic and not Hispanic, I always impressed with the way this religion and culture honors their dead.
There are a lot of places to travel in the west, but I think we’ll be back to Northern New Mexico. There is still a wildness here that’s somewhat refreshing. Plus, people seem to move at a slower pace, which makes a vacation that much more special.
A Northern New Mexico Road Trip: Dixon, Part One
A Northern New Mexico Road Trip: The Wineries, Part Two
