What to do this weekend in Santa Fe

Take advantage of the last warm autumn days!

The forecast for Santa Fe this weekend is warm and sunny, with highs near 70F, and lows just below 40F. Why not take advantage of the last few warm days of fall and get outside?

Leaf peeping. The aspens have mostly shed their leaves, but late October and early November is when the cottonwood trees come into their full glory. Drive along Route 68 out of Espanola towards Taos beside the Rio Grande, or stay on 84 heading towards Abiquiu along the Rio Chama. Forest Service Road 151 winds along the shore of the Chama, offering camping and fishing among the trees, before ending at the Benedictine Moanastery of Christ in the Desert (find out more about visiting the monastery here). Unfortunately, the stunning cottonwoods at the Leonora Curtin Wetland Preserve are no longer publicly accessible as the owner, El Rancho de Las Golondrinas (a living history museum) has closed for the winter.

Put the top down! This is probably the last weekend to take your ragtop, vintage sports car, or lovingly restored lowrider for a spin on some curving mountain roads. Head out from Santa Fe on State Highway 285 to Espanola, and turn right onto State Road 68 towards Taos. If you leave early enough on Sunday morning, you can make brunch at the venerable and tasty Gutiz. Take the scenic route home—the famous High Road to Taos, leading through Truchas, Trampas, and Chimayo. Remember the sunscreen if you’re in a convertible—the UV is brutal at 8000 ft + of elevation!

Winterize your garden. If you haven’t drained your irrigation system and rolled up your hoses yet, this is a good weekend to do so. You can also plant some bulbs, and sow native wildflower seeds for next spring. Waterwise Gardening has sadly shuttered its doors, but their blog full of useful high desert gardening tips is still available.

What are your plans for this mid-autumn weekend?