We plan to drive next July from Durango to Santa Fe. What's the best route, Hwy.84? Is the road in good condition, any drop offs? Is it a whiteknuckle drive? Thanks

Going on 84 is about the fastest way from Durango to Santa Fe. The road is not a white knuckler and is in good conditions. You should be fine.

Hope this helps...
Debi

It is a technically easy drive with no drop offs at all but it is a lonely drive with gas and food somewhat scarce along the way. There are plenty of places to stop -- Pagosa Springs, Tierra Amarilla, Chama and others -- but don't expect to find gas, food, or toilets around every curve in the road.

lonely drive is right, but pretty.

Try to include a visit to Chaco canyon.The road to the park is bad but it's worth the trouble.PAul

Thanks to all for your advise. I feel better about the drive now, although a visit to Chaco canyon seems out of the way going south on NM 84.

It is out of the way to Santa Fe if you go via 84. You can go another route, but it will add about an hour onto your drive [not counting time to go to Chaco].

Be sure to visit Mesa Verde when in Durango. It is simply amazing.

I nowlive just outside Durango if you have any other questions [and used to live in ABQ] about either city.

Hope this helps...
Debi