The Hippiest City in New Mexico

Still in Alubquerque!
Moving on to Utah through northern Arizona

We took a drive on the Turquois Trail while the Hofmeyers were with us in Santa Fe.

We saw some classic New Mexico landscapes.

And then we saw this sign.  The guys are like what??????  I guess these alien stickers started showing up above the cow crossing warning signs.

We drove through the Cibola National Forest.

And finally made it to the Sandia Crest at 10,678ft.

It had some gorgeous views including these pinnacles.

At this point we decided to complete the Turquoise Trail by driving down to Tijeras Pueblo.  It was an archeological site that was excavated in the 1970's. Once the excavation was complete, it was covered in dirt to preserve it.  So we just walked trail to learn about the Pueblo people. A bit underwhelming.

 On our way back to Santa Fe we stopped in Madrid - the Hippiest Town in New Mexico!  First, we went to the Mine Shaft Tavern.  It is the oldest continuously run tavern in Santa Fe County, although the original building from 1895 burned down and was rebuilt in 1947.
The restaurant calls itself the "Cultural Gem of the Mining District".  Huh??

 The band was really good, but I can't remember their name.

 This "mine shaft" is kinda fun!

Johnny captured this old truck in a photo.

We took a walk and checked out a few stores and artists shops.  This sculpture garden was interesting.

We made our way to Cerrillos expecting a picturesque reminder of the Old West.  Yes, there were dirt streets, but not much else.  Except this.

 And some more scenery.

 All things Turquoise on the Trail!

 The day ended with a beautiful rainbow on the Scenic Byway.