Drives New Mexico Santa Fe, Taos and Northern New Mexico
Highway 518: Taos to Mora
NM 518, High Road to Taos · Ranchos de Taos → Mora
The drive
NM 518 runs from Ranchos de Taos, where it meets NM 68, across the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to Mora. It is a long, quiet mountain road with sweeping bends, small villages and access to Carson National Forest. Near Penasco, NM 75 joins the road and begins the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway.
South of Penasco the road passes Sipapu Ski Area, about 4.8 miles from the NM 75 junction. At Chacon, NM 121 branches off. The road tops out near 9,500 feet before descending toward Mora, where NM 94 and NM 434 join. NM 434 leads to Guadalupita, Angel Fire and Coyote Creek State Park.
At 42.2 miles and about 58 minutes, it is a good crossing for a driver with time to spare.
Along the way
- Ranchos de Taos (NM-68)
- Mora
Good to know
- Services are scarce between towns, so start with fuel.
- There is little traffic, and the road climbs and descends nearly 3,600 feet; give yourself extra time.
- Check NMRoads for current conditions, especially in winter.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check NMRoads (NMDOT).
Questions about this drive
How long does Highway 518 from Taos to Mora take?
NM 518 from Ranchos de Taos to Mora is 42.2 miles and takes about 58 minutes.
Is NM 518 part of the High Road to Taos?
NM 518 and NM 75 meet near Penasco, where the High Road to Taos Scenic Byway begins. This drive runs along NM 518 from Ranchos de Taos to Mora.
Are there services on NM 518?
Services are scarce between the towns along NM 518, so fill up before you go.
What you get in the app
Free on iPhone and Android. CarPlay and Android Auto come with Apex.
More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.