We took this 84-mile scenic byway beginning at Taos encircling Wheeler Peak, the highest peak in New Mexico at 13,161-foot elevation. The Byway continued by passing through Eagles Nest and Angel Fire, returning to Taos.
Los Luceros State Historic Site
We stopped at this historic ranch, that is now a New Mexico State Historic Site north of the town of Espanola. This property was originally inhabited about 1200 AD by Tewa-speaking Puebloans.
The 148-acre ranch also houses a chapel built in the mid-1800's.
The Hacienda, also called Casa Grande (Great House), was built in 1703.
The upstairs Grand Salon houses a Steinway grand piano.
Los Luceros borders along the Rio Grande River.
Rio Grande del Norte National Monument
Our circle tour took us to Rio Grande del Norte, which consists of 245,000 acres of public land.
Wild Rivers Recreation Area is located within the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.
Big horn sheep enjoying lunch at the La Junta Point Campground.
A dramatic view from La Junta Point overlooks the confluence of the Red River and the Rio Grande River.
La Juanta Trail descends 800 feet into the gorge below.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
In 1964 Doc Westphall and his wife, purchased over 80 acres near Angel Fire, New Mexico, with the intention of building a resort. On May 22, 1968, their eldest son, Lt. David Westphall was killed in action. The couple chose to build a chapel on the site to honor his service and sacrifice as well as the sacrifice of other US veterans. The chapel was completed in 1971, making it the first memorial in the US to be dedicated to Vietnam Veterans.
Huey 64-13670 was used as a smoke screen ship in 1967.
The Peace and Brotherhood Chapel
Inside the chapel
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