Quebradas Backcountry Byway
The Quebradas Backcountry Byway is an unpaved county road traversing about 24 miles of rugged, colorful landscapes east of Socorro. Two National Wildlife Refuges are only a few miles from this Byway - Sevilleta to the north and Bosque del Apache to the south. Much of the Byway includes rolling bench lands that rise above the Rio Grande floodplain to the west and rugged north-south running ridges of alternating bands of red and yellow sandstone, red and purple shale, and white to gray limestone.
The region includes upper Chihuahuan desert mountain ranges with sparse vegetation. The Quebradas road crosses several arroyos, which drain into the Rio Grande. Erosion has created scenic geological settings such as the Arroyo de la Presilla, Arroyo del Tajo, and the Loma de las Canas ridgeline. Many areas along the road contain near vertical, multicolored cliffs, twisted and convoluted badlands, narrow box canyons, and other topographic landforms. Colorful soils and banding of rock formations can be viewed midway through the drive.
Photos
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
- A high-clearance vehicle, such as a truck or a 4-wheel drive vehicle, is recommended as this road is rugged in several areas, has blind curves, steep hills, and can be difficult to navigate when wet.
- To hike the area, one needs to be able to walk across uneven, silty ground that goes up and downhill for several miles.
- This area does not have any ADA compliant facilities or interpretive displays. The most accessible way to enjoy the area is to travel by vehicle.
Know Before You Go
Fees
- None
Facilities
- None; restrooms and drinking water are not available along the Byway.
Nearby Amenities
- The nearest location to acquire food, gas, and water is in Socorro, ~6 miles away. Travel via Bosquecito Rd to Pueblitos Rd, then take NM-408 S to I-25 S.
Season/Hours
- Open year-round.
- The road may become difficult or impossible to navigate after heavy rain.
Special Rules
- No fireworks, discharge or use of firearms, or any other weapons.
- Pets must be on a 6 ft leash.
- Please make sure to carry out any litter.
Brochures, Maps, and Publications
Wildlife
- Western tanagers
- Western diamondbacks
- Red-tailed hawks
- Jack rabbits
- Roadrunners
- Bull snakes
- Horned larks
- Mule deer
- Coyote
- Bobcat
- Gray fox
- Racoon
- Porcupine
- Whooping crane is also occasionally sighted
Phone
Activities
Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
The south end of the Byway begins 11 miles east of San Antonio via US 380 at County Road A-129. From the north, take the Escondida exit off of I-25 and follow NM-408 N toward Escondida Ln for 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Pueblitos Rd and travel a mile before taking a slight right onto Bosquecito Rd. Head south for about 1 mile to the beginning of the Byway. Turn left and go east, then look for the Byway signs and information.
Fees
No