Quebradas Back Country Byway
Located in the upper Chihuahuan desert mountain ranges, the Quebradas National Back Country Byway is a beautiful scenic drive located east of Socorro, in Socorro County, New Mexico, USA. Quiet and remote. No cell phones can be heard out here.
The road is unpaved. It’s 24-mile (38.6km) long. The drive is two way traffic and narrow but perfectly safe to drive. High-clearance or 4wd vehicles are recommended, although passenger cars may cross if it is dry. Use particular caution when the road is wet. The road crosses many dry streambeds so not recommended after (and certainly not during) a heavy rain. When wet, the road may become impassable.
The ride is rather remote, so you need to be prepared. Be sure to take plenty of water, stay aware and watch your step as the desert is unforgiving if you are not alert. In case of a breakdown, there is very little in the way of passing traffic or inhabitants around, and no cell phone service in parts. Extreme care with common reptiles including bull snake, king snake, whip snake, and western diamondback rattlesnake. You will feel like you are really far out in the desert areas when you are really only a few miles from the interstate.
The backcountry byway is open year round and there are no fees involved. The road offers the rugged, colorful landscapes east of Socorro. This is definitely one road trip that you want to record with lots of photographs. The journey is saturated with color and it’s possible to see some of New Mexico's beautiful wildlife. The road is a delight to drive, with every kind of twist and turn.
Pic: BLM New Mexico