This 84-mile Scenic Drive Is Called the ‘Enchanted Circle’—and It’s Most Magical During the Fall
"As the state’s tallest mountain, Wheeler Peak sits at the center of the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, and I noted that the route circles the peak." - Taryn White Taryn White Taryn White is a D.C.-based travel writer who covers a wide range of topics, including family travel, hotels, food, aviation, beaches, historical and cultural topics, and wellness travel. She can often be spotted around the world with her husband and two travel-loving kids. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
jack V.
Google
Well marked, difficult trail. Great views but intense wind up top. Expect 5-7 hours round trip depending on skill.
Aniruddha Roy C.
Google
Very scenic and picturesque. We opted to take the driving route to the view point. The road just beyond the Taos Ski Valley entry point completely an off-roading experience, however there are plethora of lodging options up the route. There was a no entry towards the end of the mountain road and thus we were unable to go past that point.
However, even there the views were stunning and worth the visit.
honestcabe
Google
Amazing experience sunrising Wheeler Peak with my son! Began at hiker parking lot around 3:30am with headlamps and the best star gazing I’ve ever seen.
Be sure and bring at least 2 liters of water and rain gear.
Happy trails
Tomasz S.
Google
Wheeler Peak is absolutely beautiful! The hike is challenging but so worth it — the views from the top are amazing and unforgettable. Being at the highest point in New Mexico with 360° scenery all around was an incredible experience. Highly recommend for anyone who loves mountains and nature!
Gina T.
Google
We loved this trail! It took us in total 4hrs and 38minutes. It was exactly 9 miles from the hiker parking lot to the peak. We stopped for a bit at the lake and then again at the peak.
The trail is very well marked has areas where its rocky but totally manageable assuming you have the right foot wear. The views at the top are stunning and worth the 2900ft of gain.
You. Can. Do. It. !!!
Levi G.
Google
The hike was fantastic I believe the highpoint was around 14 miles round trip. Definitely not the easiest in the world. Went in mid summer still snow above the tree line probably about 60-75 degrees at the top. Hiked it with a normal sized water bottle and a monster so Definitely doable. Would go again they have tons of trailes to there's always more to explore.
James R.
Google
This is a very strenuous hike. Between the elevation gain of around 4,000 feet and the high altitude, this was a workout. From the Bull Of The Woods trailhead, the elevation gain is around 4,000 feet, starting at an elevation of around 9,000 feet. Where I live, it's only 600 feet above sea level, so this was a hard lesson in the effects of hiking at high altitudes. I was truly tested on this hike, but the weather, the views, and the people I came across along the way made it a worthwhile endeavor. I came down via the Williams Lake trail, which is an extremely steep trail. Whats worse, the last couple hundred feet going up is full of loose rock and gravel. You are definitely better off going to the peak via the Wheeler Peak Trail, starting at Bull Of The Woods trailhead.
Tibor T.
Google
Found it a challenging climb due to the altitude. The trail is well marked. There was snow in July and had to climb a detour due to large snow patch covering a portion of the trail. Parking close to the trailhead is limited (~40 parking spots - see video). The view from the top and along the trail is magnificent. All in all, highly recommend!