Santa Fe and Taos
 

We're attending a family reunion in Pagosa Springs this July and want to see Santa Fe and Taos. Is it unrealistic to assume we can stay south of Santa Fe and see both areas in 5 days? Is parking in July (10-15) in Santa Fe impossible such that we need to actually stay in town? Advice most appreciated.

I'd let your budget dictate where you stay. I think 5 days is fine, if you make Taos a one (long) day trip. It takes about an hour to drive from Santa Fe to Taos (if you don't stop too much.) This is a very pretty drive. Try to time it so you come back just a little bit before sunset (which in July will be around 8:00 or so). There will be some glorious light. <BR>I'd also consider a trip to Bandalier National Monument, which is an Indian cliff dwelling site west of Santa Fe. This will require about a full day, if you take all the trails at Bandalier. It's also a pretty drive. yes, there will lots of traffic, hence little parking, in Santa Fe. Staying in town has its benefits - most places, such as shops, restaurants, art galleries, are in walking distance of most hotels. I normally stay at Bishop's Lodge, just outside of town. I do have to drive into town, but when I do, I do it first thing in the morning before everyone's stirring. Have fun.

Five days is plenty to cover both areas. They're located within around an hour drive of one another. There are plenty of lodging choices in either town and in a variety of price ranges. I've stayed at the Hilton in Santa Fe and didn't find it to be worth the extra money. If you do want to enjoy a great meal, try the Coyote Grill in Santa Fe. It's located upstairs with a store down below. Incredible steak! And the margaritas were wonderful as well.

You might look into a visit a Chaco Canyon, as well.

A week should be plenty to see most <BR>everything. I visited all the places that have been mentioned (including Pagosa Springs) as well as Durango and was gone for a week. Please don't miss the High Road to Taos. That is a spectacular drive from Santa Fe to Taos and worth any extra time it takes.