Looking for a reason to hit the road? Checking out one of New Mexico’s many scenic drives is the perfect way to spend the better part of an afternoon. Of the state’s 25 scenic byways, one we’ll feature today has the perfect combination of beautiful landscapes and history.
Welcome to the picturesque and underrated Billy the Kid Scenic Byway.
Kent Kanouse/Flickr Also referred to as Billy the Kid Trail, this route winds 84 miles through portions of Lincoln National Forest. The trail supposedly follows a route used by the Wild West outlaw.
A drive down through the scenic byway is breathtaking not just for its grand landscapes.
Patrick Alexander/Flickr This route is home to some incredible historic stops as well.
Make sure to stop by the Billy the Kid Visitor Center.
Makayla Kuntz/Flickr Located in Ruidoso Downs, this visitor center highlights Billy the Kid’s history and influence on culture.
Don’t miss the Lincoln Historic Site.
Kent Kanouse/Flickr The tiny town of Lincoln has a rich Wild West history and you can experience a piece of that by visiting the old county courthouse.
Fort Stanton Museum & Cemetery is another must-see stop along this route.
AllenS/Wikimedia Commons This 19th-century Army fort is exceptionally well-preserved and may be one of the most intact military forts in the country. The historic site hosts a whopping 88 buildings, some dating established as early as 1855.
Both kids and adults will appreciate the Smokey Bear Historical Park & Museum.
Ccx.Bio/Google If you weren’t aware, Smokey Bear’s hometown happens to be in Capitan. The original bear cub was found in the Capitan Mountains just outside of town, orphaned by a forest fire.
And, of course, there are also plenty of beautiful natural places to see and visit during the drive.
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Billy the Kid National Scenic Byway totals 84 miles and is comprised of four highway segments: NM-48, Highway 70, Highway 380, and NM-220.
Google Maps
You can find details about the scenic route, things to do, and places to dine by visiting the byway’s website or that of the Federal Highway Administration.
Kent Kanouse/Flickr
Also referred to as Billy the Kid Trail, this route winds 84 miles through portions of Lincoln National Forest. The trail supposedly follows a route used by the Wild West outlaw.
Patrick Alexander/Flickr
This route is home to some incredible historic stops as well.
Makayla Kuntz/Flickr
Located in Ruidoso Downs, this visitor center highlights Billy the Kid’s history and influence on culture.
The tiny town of Lincoln has a rich Wild West history and you can experience a piece of that by visiting the old county courthouse.
AllenS/Wikimedia Commons
This 19th-century Army fort is exceptionally well-preserved and may be one of the most intact military forts in the country. The historic site hosts a whopping 88 buildings, some dating established as early as 1855.
Ccx.Bio/Google
If you weren’t aware, Smokey Bear’s hometown happens to be in Capitan. The original bear cub was found in the Capitan Mountains just outside of town, orphaned by a forest fire.
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
Google Maps
Website: Billy the Kid National Scenic Byway Website: Federal Highway Administration
Looking for another lovely location that will have you exploring parts of New Mexico that you’ve probably never seen? You’ll want to check out the state’s first and largest designated wilderness area, the Gila Wilderness. Read more in America’s First Designated Wilderness Area Is Also One Of New Mexico’s Most Underrated Natural Beauties.
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