Chimayó and Truchas

Just east of Los Alamos, the villages of Chimayó and Truchas offer a scenic day trip through the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Explore historic adobe architecture, traditional New Mexican art and weaving, galleries, local shops and mountain views along the scenic High Road to Taos.

Chimayó

From Los Alamos, head east toward Española and follow NM76 into the Chimayó Valley. The area is known for its deep artistic and cultural traditions, including generations of weaving families, galleries and shops featuring traditional New Mexican crafts.

One of Chimayó’s best-known landmarks is the Santuario de Chimayó, a historic adobe church that has become one of New Mexico’s most important pilgrimage sites. The church welcomes visitors and offers a glimpse into the area’s enduring religious and cultural traditions.

Take some time to explore the surrounding villages and browse local galleries and shops, like Chimayo Weavers before continuing north toward Truchas.

Truchas

Continue along the scenic High Road to Taos to Truchas (TRUE-chas), a historic mountain village perched at more than 8,000 feet with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The village is known for its adobe architecture, art galleries and connection to New Mexico’s artistic heritage.

Truchas was also the setting for Robert Redford’s 1988 film The Milagro Beanfield War, adding to its place in New Mexico’s film history.

For an even more scenic drive, continue along NM 76 through the small communities of the High Road, including Las Trampas, home to the historic San José de Gracia de las Trampas church.

Make a Day of It

The drive from Los Alamos to Chimayó and Truchas is an easy way to experience a different side of Northern New Mexico. Plan time to stop along the way, explore local galleries and shops, enjoy the mountain scenery and experience the historic villages that make the High Road so distinctive.

Plan your route: Los Alamos → Chimayó → Truchas → Las Trampas → return to Los Alamos