Snuggled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Red River, New Mexico, is a mountain hideaway that offers a classic backdrop for an adventurous getaway. It’s labeled as having that small-town appeal with upscale attractions that bring people to the neighborhood — year-round. The landscape alone is enough to leave one full of peace. But there are numerous things to do in the region; you can pack a full week or a weekend with exciting things to do. Let’s explore the same in our article today.
How to reach Red River, New Mexico?
Red River lies on the NM-38 (Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway) between Eagle Nest and Questa. It is roughly equidistant from Taos in either direction, with Taos across the southwest circle. The North Central Regional Transit District provides free bus service Monday through Friday with paths that connect the communities and counties of Taos (Red River), Rio Arriba, Santa Fe, and Los Alamos.
5 Things to do in Red River, New Mexico
Relaxation
The Red River section of New Mexico is home to upscale salons and spas. So after a tiring day on hiking trails or on the slopes, you can indulge yourself in a spa treatment to unwind and relax. Or skip the activities and just spend a passionate afternoon with your loved one while getting pampered in silence.
Events and Festivals
Wine tastings, chili cook-offs, outdoor festivals, and art shows are on Red River’s calendar. But if you want to get more of a cozy feel for the area, there are also trademark events, including the Winter Carnival, the Classic Car Show, the Fine Art & Wine Festival, and the famous Aspencase Arts & Crafts Fair. Are you thinking about celebrating a romantic weekend in this mountain hideaway? You won’t be disappointed. The city hosts an Independence Day celebration, Oktoberfest, Mardi Gras in the Mountains, and New Years on Main Street. Trust me; it is not to be missed. So update your travel calendar and add Red River right away.
Adventurous Activities
No matter when you plan to visit, Red River boasts several outdoor adventurous activities that will challenge your mind and body. Numerous resorts in this region have their selection of snowboarding, snowmobiling, and skiing in the winter — all done at over 8000 feet. While if you’re more of a warm-weather person, you can try biking, hiking, golfing, fishing, offroading, and horseback riding. The sun will be blazing, but you won’t get too hot while taking in the outside. The average summer temperature in Red River is a refreshing 75 degrees, which can make your holidays even more pleasant.
Relaxing Day Trips
If you want to traverse more of the neighborhood, rent a car and take a day trip to fancy attractions, including the Ojo Caliente Mineral Spring, which I believe is the best-kept secret, where you can relax in private or public baths. The Los Alamos National Laboratory, the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, and Taos’s historic town are also a short drive away. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway is the most popular draw. It circles Wheeler Peak, which at 13,161 feet, is the largest mountain in New Mexico. You’ll see feldspar and quartz on the drive that dates back over a billion years.
History
There is some fascinating history to this mountain hideaway. Take a break from outdoor exploits and explore Red River’s roots as a mining boomtown, which put it in the mainstream. You can also travel back in time when you visit the Little Red Schoolhouse Museum, the Pierce Fuller House, or any number of well-known cabins.
