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SCENIC BYWAY

Pecos River Valley Scenic Drive

19.1 miles: 0 hours, 33 minutes

This route through the heart of Santa Fe National Forest follows the curves of the Pecos River from the small town of Pecos to a crossroads of campgrounds and hiking trails at Cowles. The peaceful area is remote enough that a Benedictine monastery makes its home here. Seasonal floods may cause poor road conditions, especially north of Terrero, where the road narrows.

AndyMagee/iStockphoto.com

What looks like a straight line on a map is actually a winding odyssey for the senses. This two-lane road that crisscrosses over the water is only 20 miles long, but the biodiversity and views make it easy to see why the area is a popular destination for hikers, campers and boaters. The Dalton Picnic Area and Santa Fe National Forest Fishing Site are popular stops.

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