New Mexico Route 66 Main Page

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New Mexico Route 66 Main Page

New Mexico Route 66 Main Page

New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, holds a significant stretch of the legendary Route 66, often referred to as the Mother Road. This historic highway winds its way through a diverse tapestry of landscapes, offering travelers a captivating journey through the heart of the American Southwest. From the towering peaks of majestic mountain ranges to the sun-baked surfaces of sandstone mesas, the scenery is a constant source of wonder. The landscape is further punctuated by the hardy desert sagebrush, the fragrant ponderosa pines that whisper in the mountain breeze, and the silent sentinels of forgotten ghost towns, remnants of a bygone era.

The New Mexico portion of Route 66 is more than just a road; it’s a living museum, a testament to the enduring spirit of the American West. As you traverse this vintage pavement, you’ll encounter a vibrant blend of history and culture. Ancient pueblo cities, their adobe walls standing as silent witnesses to centuries of tradition, offer glimpses into the lives of the Native American peoples who have called this land home for millennia. Interspersed among these ancient sites are the vestiges of the Mother Road’s heyday: open and abandoned motels, their faded facades and flickering neon signs evoking a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time. The landscape itself is a canvas where ancient and contemporary cultures intertwine, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.

The story of New Mexico Route 66 stretches back thousands of years, beginning with the rich traditions and enduring legacy of the Native Americans. Their presence is etched into the very fabric of the land, evident in the ancient ruins, the vibrant arts and crafts, and the enduring cultural practices that continue to thrive. This history seamlessly transitions into the rugged and romanticized era of the Wild West, a time of cowboys, outlaws, and frontier settlements. Finally, the narrative culminates in the golden age of the Mother Road, a period of unprecedented mobility and economic growth that transformed the American landscape. And even beyond this era, the legacy of Route 66 continues to resonate, shaping the identity of the communities it passes through and attracting travelers from around the globe.

Adding to the intrigue, New Mexico Route 66 actually boasts two distinct alignments. Originally, the route meandered a longer, more circuitous path through the state. However, in 1937, a significant realignment project was undertaken to shorten and straighten the road, optimizing it for increased traffic and efficiency. This ambitious undertaking reduced the total mileage through New Mexico from 506 miles to a more manageable 399 miles, streamlining the journey for countless travelers.

This change created two distinct experiences for those exploring the Mother Road in New Mexico. The pre-1937 alignment offers a glimpse into the road’s original character, winding through smaller towns and showcasing a more intimate connection with the landscape. The post-1937 alignment, on the other hand, represents the modernizing spirit of the era, providing a more direct and efficient route through the state. Both alignments offer unique perspectives on the history and evolution of Route 66.

Prepare to be captivated by the allure of the Land of Enchantment as you embark on your journey along New Mexico Route 66. The state’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture promise an unforgettable adventure filled with discovery and wonder. From the eastern border with Texas to the western edge bordering Arizona, the Mother Road unveils a tapestry of experiences that will leave you breathless.

Westbound Along Route 66:

  • Glenrio – A Route 66 Casualty: Located right on the New Mexico-Texas border, Glenrio stands as a poignant reminder of the towns that faded into obscurity after the construction of the Interstate system bypassed Route 66. Once a bustling stop for travelers, Glenrio is now a ghost town, its abandoned buildings and crumbling infrastructure serving as a stark testament to the transient nature of progress.

  • Endee to San Jon – Another Ghostly Stretch of Route 66: Continuing westward, this stretch of Route 66 offers a hauntingly beautiful landscape, dotted with the remnants of forgotten towns and roadside attractions. The silence of the open road is broken only by the whisper of the wind and the occasional passing car, creating an atmosphere of solitude and reflection.

  • Tucumcari – Six-Shooter Siding: Tucumcari is a vibrant oasis of neon and nostalgia, a classic Route 66 town that has embraced its heritage. Known for its numerous motels, restaurants, and shops adorned with dazzling neon signs, Tucumcari offers a glimpse into the glory days of the Mother Road. The iconic Blue Swallow Motel, with its welcoming courtyard and meticulously maintained rooms, is a must-see for any Route 66 traveler.

  • Ghosts Beyond Tucumcari: Beyond the bright lights of Tucumcari lie the ghost towns of Montoya, Newkirk, and Cuervo, each with its own unique story to tell. These abandoned settlements offer a glimpse into the harsh realities of life on the frontier, where survival depended on resilience and resourcefulness.

  • Santa Rosa – City of Natural Lakes: Santa Rosa is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting a series of natural lakes and swimming holes that offer respite from the desert heat. The Blue Hole, a deep, crystal-clear sinkhole, is a popular spot for scuba diving and swimming, while the nearby Park Lake provides opportunities for boating and fishing.

  • Pre-1937 Alignment: This section allows travelers to experience the original route before the 1937 realignment, showcasing a more intimate connection with the landscape and the smaller towns along the way.

    • Dilia: A small community along the pre-1937 alignment, Dilia offers a glimpse into the past with its historic buildings and quiet atmosphere.

  • Off the Path – Las Vegas – More Wicked Than Dodge City: A detour north of Route 66 will lead you to Las Vegas, a historic town that once rivaled Dodge City in its reputation for lawlessness and debauchery. Today, Las Vegas retains its Wild West charm, with its Victorian architecture, historic hotels, and colorful past.

  • Romeroville: A small, historic village near Las Vegas, Romeroville offers a glimpse into the region’s Spanish colonial past.

  • Tecolote: Another historic village near Las Vegas, Tecolote is known for its well-preserved adobe architecture and its tranquil atmosphere.

  • Bernal: Bernal is a small community with a rich history, located along the original alignment of Route 66.

  • San Jose: This historic village offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved adobe buildings and its traditional way of life.

  • Rowe: Located near Pecos National Historical Park, Rowe is a small community with a rich history and a strong connection to the Santa Fe Trail.

  • Kozlowski Trading Post: A historic stage stop along the Santa Fe Trail, the Kozlowski Trading Post offers a glimpse into the lives of the pioneers and travelers who traversed this important trade route.

  • Forked Lightning Ranch: Once owned by Greer Garson and her husband, this ranch offers a glimpse into the world of Hollywood glamour and Western hospitality.

  • Pecos Pueblo: Explore the ruins of Pecos Pueblo, an ancient Native American settlement that played a significant role in the region’s history.

  • Pecos: The town of Pecos is a gateway to the Pecos National Historical Park, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the area’s rich history.

  • Pigeon’s Ranch: The site of a significant battle during the Civil War, Pigeon’s Ranch offers a glimpse into the conflict that shaped the nation.

  • Glorieta and Canoncito: These small communities offer a glimpse into the rural life of northern New Mexico, with their historic churches and traditional adobe architecture.

  • Santa Fe – The City Different: The capital of New Mexico, Santa Fe is a vibrant city known for its unique blend of cultures, its stunning architecture, and its thriving arts scene.

  • More Haunted Places in Santa Fe: Explore the city’s spooky side with a tour of its haunted hotels, historic buildings, and eerie cemeteries.

  • Haunted La Fonda Hotel in Santa Fe: The La Fonda Hotel is one of Santa Fe’s most iconic landmarks, known for its luxurious accommodations and its ghostly residents.

  • Haunted Posada Hotel in Santa Fe: Another haunted hotel in Santa Fe, the Posada Hotel is said to be haunted by the spirit of a former owner.

  • Off the Path – El Rancho de los Golondrinas: A living history museum that recreates life in 18th and 19th-century New Mexico.

  • Kewa Pueblo: A traditional Native American pueblo located near Santa Fe, Kewa Pueblo offers a glimpse into the culture and traditions of the Kewa people.

  • Bernalillo: Located north of Albuquerque, Bernalillo is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage.

  • Post-1937 Alignment: This alignment represents the modernized Route 66, providing a more direct and efficient route through the state.

  • Cline’s Corners to the Old Longhorn Ranch: This section of Route 66 offers a glimpse into the roadside attractions and tourist stops that once lined the Mother Road.

  • Moriarty to Tijeras on the Salt Missions Trail: This route takes you through the scenic Salt Missions Trail, showcasing the historic missions and communities that thrived in the area.

  • Moriarty, Edgewood, Barton, Sedillo, Tijeras: These towns offer a glimpse into the rural life of central New Mexico, with their small-town charm and their historic buildings.

  • Albuquerque – 300-Year-Old Duke City: The largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and a diverse culture.

  • El Vado Auto Court: A restored Route 66 motel in Albuquerque, the El Vado Auto Court offers a glimpse into the golden age of roadside travel.

  • Haunted Kimo Theatre: A historic theatre in Albuquerque, the Kimo Theatre is said to be haunted by the spirit of a young boy.

  • La Llorona in Albuquerque: Explore the legend of La Llorona, a weeping woman who is said to haunt the rivers and waterways of Albuquerque.

  • Pre-1937 Alignment:

  • Ancient History South of Albuquerque: This section explores the ancient history of the region south of Albuquerque, showcasing the Native American cultures that thrived in the area.

  • Isleta Pueblo – Home to the Tigua Tribe, Los Lunas – History Through the Ages: These communities offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural traditions of the Tigua people and the town of Los Lunas.

  • Rio Puerco Valley Along Old Route 66: This scenic valley offers a glimpse into the rural landscape of central New Mexico.

  • Post-1937 Alignment:

  • Rio Puerco Bridge: A historic bridge along Route 66, the Rio Puerco Bridge is a reminder of the engineering feats that made the Mother Road possible.

  • Laguna Pueblo: A traditional Native American pueblo located west of Albuquerque, Laguna Pueblo offers a glimpse into the culture and traditions of the Laguna people.

  • Indian Country Ghost Towns: Explore the ghost towns of Budville, Cubero, San Fidel, and McCartys, remnants of a bygone era in Indian Country.

  • Off the Path – Acoma Pueblo – Ancient Sky City: Perched atop a towering mesa, Acoma Pueblo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in North America.

  • Grants – Uranium City USA: Grants, once known as the "Uranium Capital of the World," offers a glimpse into the region’s mining history.

  • Across the Continental Divide on Route 66: Experience the thrill of crossing the Continental Divide on Route 66, marking the point where rivers flow in opposite directions.

  • Off the Path – Chaco Culture National Historical Park: Explore the ruins of Chaco Canyon, an ancient center of Puebloan culture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Gallup – Indian Center of the Southwest: Gallup is a vibrant town known for its Native American arts and crafts, its trading posts, and its cultural events.

  • McKinley County Ghost Towns: Discover the forgotten ghost towns of McKinley County, remnants of the region’s mining and ranching past.

Also See:

  • New Mexico Main Page
  • New Mexico Route 66 Photo Gallery
  • Route 66 Main Page
  • Travel Destinations

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