This Secluded Gem in New Mexico Is the Next Big Thing in Slow Travel

Slow traveling is not for everyone. Some folks prefer to rush through their vacations, only experiencing tiny glimpses of the destination. Sounds familiar? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. I was guilty of this as well. Now, I prefer to take things slow and enjoy all that a location has to offer. Whether indulging in local cuisine, soaking up breathtaking views on a secluded trail, or visiting a museum to learn about a town’s culture and history, I love living in every bit of those moments. 

If you can relate and prefer to fully immerse yourself in one destination, then plan a trip to the quaint town of Questa, New Mexico. You’ll find endless outdoor adventure here, including the Latir Peak Wilderness, where you can fish, camp, and bask in picturesque mountain views. Also, there are scenic drives, historical sites, delicious food, and specialty shops in town. In my opinion, it’s one of the best destinations for slow travel in New Mexico.

Are you scratching your head, wondering, “What is slow travel?” Well, let me explain it to you. The idea was popularized several years ago and promotes a more mindful approach to travel. This means you pick one town or city, stay a while, and focus on all the local experiences there. It’s a way to pause and embrace each part of the destination.      

Questa invites you to do just that, and as the town’s motto states, to “find what’s real.” The friendly mountain village of 1,800 residents is located just 95 miles north of Santa Fe, so it’s great for a day trip or weekend getaway. Nestled at the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and as a gateway to the Carson National Forest and Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, Questa is brimming with natural beauty and has a rich cultural heritage. 

While here, carve out time to explore the town by visiting historical landmarks like the Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church. Several years ago, the building collapsed, and the community banded together to restore the beautiful 19th-century structure.

You may also choose to take a leisurely drive along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, which also cruises through Arroyo Hondo and Taos, one of the oldest towns in New Mexico. A must-visit is Eagle Rock Lake, a popular spot for fishing and picnics. And if you’re feeling adventurous, plan a day trip to soak up views of the gorgeous mountains and waterways on this Wild River Saddle and Paddle excursion.   

The Latir Peak Wilderness should be at the top of your list. Tucked inside the Carson National Forest, this 20,000-acre secluded gem offers a place to relax and rejuvenate. Here you’ll find two hiking trails that meander through gorgeous forests and expansive meadows and lead to two tranquil alpine lakes: Heart and Cabresto Lakes. The remote trails are rocky and challenging, but they offer a chance to fully immerse yourself in nature while soaking up all that natural beauty. Due to the rugged terrain, I wouldn’t recommend these treks for younger kids, but they’re suitable for dogs. 

If you’re a solo traveler seeking solitude, you can enjoy fishing and camping here. Spend quiet days casting your rod and patiently waiting for your next catch, or have a picnic by one of the picture-perfect lakes. Stay until sunset and watch the colors dance across the skies, and when you’re done, return to your campsite at Cabresto Lake Campground and listen to the nighttime sounds of the forest. The point of slow traveling is to embrace a relaxed pace, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do that here. Chances are, you might have the wilderness area all to yourself.

So, if you’re ready to escape and disconnect from your fast-paced life, plan a trip to Questa to bask in its natural beauty and rich history. It’s arguably a top destination for slow travel in New Mexico, and you should experience it at least once. 

Have you ever been to the town of Questa or the Latir Peak Wilderness? If not, what are you waiting for? A trip here is just what you need to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.