Major Highways & Driving Tips in Albuquerque, United States

1. I-40 Interstate

A major east-west route connecting Albuquerque to cities like Amarillo and Gallup. Known for the historic Route 66 alignment in certain sections.

Length: Approximately 280 miles long, making it a significant drive within New Mexico
Historic Route 66: Offers a nostalgic glimpse into America's past with vintage motels and diners
Truck Traffic: Expect heavy truck traffic due to its importance as a freight corridor

North-south highway connecting Albuquerque with Colorado and Texas. Known for its proximity to the Sandia Mountains.

Mountain Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Sandia Mountains, especially during sunrise or sunset
Urban Scenery: Experience a blend of city and natural landscapes while driving along I-25
Rush Hour Traffic: Avoid rush hours (6-9 AM, 4-7 PM) to ensure smoother travel

Scenic route linking Albuquerque with Santa Fe. Famous for the Turquoise Trail and its artisan shops.

Artisan Shops: Stop by local artisan shops to purchase unique jewelry, pottery, and crafts
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Jemez Mountains and various scenic overlooks
Winding Roads: Be prepared for winding roads with narrow lanes in some sections

Connects Albuquerque to the Petroglyph National Monument. Known for its extensive collection of rock carvings.

Petroglyph Sites: Explore numerous petroglyph sites showcasing Native American history and culture
Open Space: Enjoy the vast open space of the desert and mountainous landscapes
Wildlife Encounters: Possibility of encountering various desert wildlife, such as coyotes, rabbits, and roadrunners

Parallel route to I-40 offering access to many Albuquerque attractions like Old Town and the University of New Mexico.

Local Attractions: Conveniently located near popular tourist destinations
Local Businesses: Provides access to local businesses, restaurants, and shops
Slower Speed Limit: Lower speed limit compared to the interstate for a more relaxed drive

Scenic route linking Albuquerque with Los Lunas. Known for the Rio Grande Bosque and its wildlife viewing opportunities.

Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to spot various species such as deer, eagles, and herons
Rio Grande Bosque: Enjoy the lush riparian habitat of the Rio Grande Bosque
Scenic Byway: Designated as a Scenic Byway for its natural beauty and cultural significance

Connects Albuquerque to Socorro. Known for the very large Magdalena Ridge Observatory and its dark skies.

Stargazing Opportunities: Ideal location for stargazing due to minimal light pollution
Scientific Research: Pass by the Magdalena Ridge Observatory, a leading research facility
Open Terrain: Drive through expansive open terrain and explore rural New Mexico

Connects Albuquerque to the Sandia Mountains. Known for its winding roads and hiking trails.

Winding Roads: Be prepared for winding roads with steep inclines in some sections
Hiking Trails: Access numerous hiking trails within the Sandia Mountains
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of Albuquerque, the Rio Grande Valley, and the surrounding mountains

Connects Albuquerque to Bernalillo. Known for its historic sites, such as the San Jose de los Lunas Mission.

Historic Sites: Visit the historic San Jose de los Lunas Mission and learn about New Mexico's history
Scenic Beauty: Drive through scenic desert landscapes, canyons, and mesas
Local Culture: Experience the local culture in Bernalillo's vibrant plaza and shops

Connects Albuquerque to Tijeras. Known for the scenic Cibola National Forest and its hiking trails.

Scenic Beauty: Drive through beautiful mountain vistas, forests, and meadows
Hiking Trails: Access numerous hiking trails within the Cibola National Forest
Wildlife Encounters: Possibility of encountering various forest wildlife, such as elk and black bears

Connects Albuquerque to Placitas. Known for its vineyards and wineries.

Wineries: Visit local vineyards and taste New Mexico's finest wines
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the beauty of rolling hills, vineyards, and rural landscapes
Art Studios: Stop by local art studios and galleries showcasing works from regional artists

Connects Albuquerque to Corrales. Known for its farms, farm stands, and fresh produce.

Farm Stands: Pick up fresh produce at roadside farm stands
Scenic Beauty: Drive through picturesque farmlands and rural landscapes
Local Culture: Experience the small-town charm of Corrales' historic adobe homes and shops

Connects Albuquerque to Moriarty. Known for the Petroglyph National Monument and its extensive collection of rock carvings.

Petroglyph Sites: Explore numerous petroglyph sites showcasing Native American history and culture
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the desert, canyons, and mountains
Urban Scenery: Experience a blend of city and natural landscapes while driving along NM-66

Connects Albuquerque to Los Lunas. Known for its vibrant community and access to the Valencia County Fairgrounds.

Community Events: Participate in local events held at the Valencia County Fairgrounds
Scenic Beauty: Drive through scenic desert landscapes, canyons, and mesas
Local Culture: Experience the friendly and welcoming community of Los Lunas

Alternate route to Tijeras, offering scenic views and access to the Sandia Mountains.

Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sandia Mountains and surrounding landscapes
Alternate Route: Provides an alternative route to Tijeras during heavier traffic periods on NM-344
Winding Roads: Be prepared for winding roads with steep inclines in some sections