The Best Small Towns in New Mexico To Chill Out
Everyone’s definition of chill is different, but some people may envision swimming in the turquoise waters of stone sinkholes, traversing through the open land of desert and cacti, or skiing on a mountain’s slope. If these activities all sound like your cup of tea, then you are in luck, as this is what New Mexico, United States is known for—chilling out under the sun by plants, water, or mountains. These best small towns in New Mexico, from Santa Rosa to Chimaya, offer endless nature to explore and plenty of options to chill out.
Santa Rosa
Santa Rose is a miniature town in the region of Guadalupe, with a population of 2,800. One of its top attractions that draws people from other states is The Blue Hole. This blue water oasis is a hidden gem and a geographical monument. Surrounded by desert, Blue Hole used to be Blue Lake. Surrounded by layers of rock, people can cliff jump, dive, and swim; it is almost 80 feet deep. If you swim deep enough, you may find hidden underwater caves.
El Rito Creek is a prominent body of water that cuts through the town. Along its shores, discover local restaurants and cafes like Comet II Drive-In & Restaurant and Mr. Bee’s Coffee and Teas.
Jemez Springs
While Santa Rose is a tiny town, Jemez Springs is even smaller, with a population of 197. Jemez River flows through the community. Even though the town is quaint and quiet, it holds much beauty, creating a chill getaway. This tiny town is at the center of Santa Fe National Forest, a recreational area that spans 1.6 million acres and holds mountains, valleys, and mesas. The mountain range in this area is Chicoma Mountain, reaching 11,555 feet. Santa Fe National Forest is a cool place to chill—literally. The mountain air is cooler than land level, helping people cope with the warm weather while still having fun in nature. Additionally, visit Valles Caldera, which still has a view of the Jemez Mountains while also providing access to a more diverse landscape. Some native plants to see include sedges, cinquefoil, and rushes in the Riparian wetland area.
Cloudcroft
Back in 1899, the small village of Cloudcroft was a resort town. It is unique because people experience luxury living at The Lodge while also getting back to the roots of nature. The town is in the Lincoln National Forest area, which holds three prominent mountain ranges: Sacramento, Guadalupe, and Capitan. The ecosystem is diverse here, as it entails desert lands and alpine forests. There is a variety of nature to see when hiking or biking in this area. Zenith Park is also in this town. It contains some of the best hiking trails and is a great way to get intimate with nature. Old Cloudcroft Highway Trail Loop is a favorite. It lasts for 2.7 miles and includes a part of an old, wooden railroad.
Red River
When people drive or walk on the streets of Red River, they see the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which are a smaller range of the Rockies. They span from the south of Colorado to Santa Fe. While the mountain range is beautiful, the town gets its name from the Red River, which runs for 1,290 miles and outlines the town’s main highway.
In the winter, this town is ski central, and in the summer, hikers and bikers love taking advantage of the warm weather and stunning nature views. Goose River Trail is a popular pathway. It spans nearly 3,000 feet boasting lakes and old mining cabins. A top ski resort people flock to is the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area. They offer snowshoe lessons and tours and about 9.3 miles of winter trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. To make it an even more unique experience, rent a yurt, a portable and circular, temporary living structure, to stay in overnight. Within them, the resort furnishes them with beds, wood stoves, and a dining area.
Madrid
What was once a ghost town is now a small town that overpours with artistry, galleries, and scenic nature. Take to the Turquoise Trail to discover galleries. The ride is 50 miles and connects people from Albuquerque to Santa Fe. The galleries outline the trail and include mining towns that offer crafts, theater, music, and food. Additionally, "Origami in the Garden" dot the trail; they are metal structures that look like folded origami.
The Oritz Mountains are only a 17-minute drive away from the town. A beautiful way to explore the slopes is by visiting Oritz Mountain Ranch, which is a conservation area. The ranch, in its entirety, is 11,000 acres of forests and grasslands. For an additional outdoor adventure, check out Connie’s Photo Park. While enjoying the fresh air and vegetation, view old-fashioned, Western paintings on frames with spaces cut out. People can stand behind the paintings’ cutouts and take fun photos.
Las Vegas
Not to be confused with wild Las Vegas in Nevada, Las Vegas, New Mexico, still holds charm and history. This town is also plentiful in water systems, with Gallinas Creek and Pecos River running through it. Some local parks to explore include Memorial Park Las Vegas and Rodriguez Park. Or, for a chill waterside experience, drive the 5 miles to Storrie Lake State Park. Storri Lake is perfect for fishing, birdwatching, and even windsurfing. Boating and camping accommodations are available too.
To explore the town’s history, visit Plaza Hotel, which has been around since the 1880s. People can still book rooms here, and it holds an old Southern charm with a ballroom, meeting room, and saloon.
Chimayo
Chimayo is the epitome of chill with its relaxing and beautiful church, El Santuario de Chimayó. Stemming from Catholicism, the shrine entails a wood frame and gated gardens with picture-pristine garden beds and colorful flowers along cobblestone pathways. Even today, this town receives thousands of visitors during prominent religious holidays like Easter. The town houses the Ditch Reservoir, which forms a spiderweb across the town.
A peaceful and cute place to stay is Casa Escondida Bed and Breakfast. The property spans 6 acres, and guests can view the Jemez Mountains. All rooms are pet-friendly, with bold-colored walls and intricate area rugs, making for a unique lodging experience. Their breakfasts include three courses, and people can choose from foods like pancakes and quiches.
Southern flare, geological wonders, and cute bed and breakfasts are chill aspects of these New Mexican towns. While some boast more nature and others history, every location offers a relaxing and unique getaway option. It is time to unwind and explore the mountains and desert terrain of New Mexico.
