Shiprock, NM to Taos, NM via US 64
 

When I use google maps for a route between Shiprock and Taos, it sends me up into Colorado well east of Pagosa Springs and back down into NM on US 285.

Obviously, it is physically shorter to take US 64 from Farmington (US550) across the mountains to Taos, ultimately crossing the Rio Grande Gorge.

I can tell from the map that US 64 is twisty and probably slow, but is it that bad if I am not in a hurry?

Thanks for your help!

I drove 64 on my way from Taos to Durango last year. The road is fine and according to my GPS saved about an hour of travel time. I think Google maps and my GPS default to the longer route because 64 can close seasonally due to snow. I was traveling in September, so it wasn't a problem.

Highway 64 should be fine, but as SPQR said, it sometimes closes in winter between Tierra Amarilla and Taos.

Lee Ann

Thanks, folks.

I will be traveling mid-September so I hope it will be open. If not, I know the alternates.

I'm familiar with 64 between Tierra Amarilla to Taos. That time of year can be colorful so you may be stopping along the way for photo ops of the aspens and cottonwoods fall colors, if the timing is right. Plus, the Brazos mountains along the way are worth stopping to see. There are a couple of spots where it has winding turns but for the most part it's an easy, scenic drive.

64 should be beautiful in September, and if you have time you can do a quick detour through Farmington and visit the Aztec ruins (maybe 20 minutes out of your way)