The New Mexico Highway 14 segment of the Turquoise Trail was originally a portion of New Mexico Route 10 which connected Albuquerque and Santa Fe.

Route 10 remained a dirt and gravel road until finally being paved in the early 1940’s.   In the early 1970’s Route 10 was renumbered to Highway 14 to eliminate confusion with Interstate I-10 in southern New Mexico.

See the Turquoise Trail History page for more details

There are eight Towns and Villages that are "ON" the Turquoise Trail.  Many of these communities can trace their beginnings to the Spanish land grant times, while other were founded in the 1800's and the mid 20th century.

See the Towns & Villages (ON the Trail) page for more details.

As you venture off the Trail's ribbon of asphalt, you will find many interesting Towns and Villages which are as much a key part of the Trail's character as the Towns on the Trail.  All of these communities are inhabited and most have a wonderful historic background. 

See the Towns & Villages (OFF the Trail) page for more details.

The area is dotted with forgotten Towns & Villages, many have their roots in mining and reached their peak and decline in the 1800's.  Just like the inhabited communities they all bring historic character to the Trail area.

See the Ghost Towns & Forgotten Villages page for more details.

New Mexico and the Turquoise Trail area has a rich Spanish and Religious heritage.  A majority of these heritage rich villages along the trail had Missions or Historic Churches.

See the Missions & Historic Churches page for more details.

The Railroad played a pivotal roll in the life of many western mining towns and villages.  The Towns, Villages and Mining Camps along the Trail were no exception.  The most influential, was the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway (ATSF).

See the Railroads Page for more details.