High Road Art Tour

The High Road Art Tour, a beloved event in northern New Mexico, is a MUST-visit for art enthusiasts, families, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of traditional and contemporary crafts. This annual celebration, also known among locals as the High Road to Taos Studio Tour, transforms the scenic High Road to Taos Scenic Byway into a vibrant showcase of artistic talent.

The target audience is diverse, including art collectors, families looking for a unique cultural experience, and travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture. The tour attracts a dedicated following of art lovers and repeat attendees who return each year to discover new artists and revisit favorites. Notable guests include the local artists themselves, many of whom are renowned for their contributions to New Mexico’s rich artistic heritage.

The High Road Art Tour takes place over two consecutive weekends in September, specifically the 20th and 21st, and the 27th and 28th. These dates coincide with the peak of fall foliage, adding an extra layer of beauty to the already stunning scenery. There are no specific daily hours, but visitors can expect to spend their days exploring the various studios and galleries that line the route.

The event unfolds along the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, a picturesque route that winds through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains between Santa Fe and Taos. This historic pathway passes through tiny, old Land Grant villages and rural countryside, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and traditional Spanish and Pueblo villages. The nearest airports are in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, with the latter providing more extensive flight options. The drive from either city is scenic and straightforward, following major highways before transitioning to the winding byway.

People should attend the High Road Art Tour for its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and artistic excellence. The tour offers an opportunity to meet and purchase directly from local artists, learning about their inspirations and artistic processes in an intimate, one-on-one setting. Visitors can explore over 40 galleries and studios, featuring an array of crafts including fiber arts, weaving, textiles, furniture, jewelry, sculpture, painting, ceramics, glass, and wood carving.

The setting itself is a major draw, with the fall season painting the mountains in vibrant hues of gold, orange, and red. As visitors drive along the byway, they are treated to magnificent vistas at every turn, punctuated by charming villages and rural landscapes. The tour is not just about viewing art; it is an immersive experience that celebrates the local culture and sustains the rural economy of this centuries-old region.

Special experiences include the chance to see artists at work in their studios, demonstrations of traditional crafts, and the opportunity to purchase unique, handmade pieces directly from the creators. Many of the studios are open year-round, but the tour weekends offer a special energy and access that is hard to replicate at other times.

In essence, the High Road Art Tour is a celebration of art, culture, and the stunning natural beauty of northern New Mexico. It is an event that inspires, educates, and enriches all who attend, making it a standout on the annual calendar of artistic and cultural events in the region.