The drive
Highway 12 is a long, quiet road across Catron County, running from Datil south and west across ranch country and the edge of Gila National Forest to Reserve. The bends are mild; the draw is distance, open views and how few other cars there are. It is a relaxed drive rather than a twisty one.
The state designated NM 12 a highway in 1917 and paved it in the 1950s. The route passes Horse Springs, Aragon and Apache Creek, where NM 32 comes in from the north, and ends at Reserve, where NM 435 begins. One traveler calls the stretch between Reserve and Old Horse Springs especially scenic, around Aragon.
Datil, at the start, has a small gas station, grocery and restaurant at the NM 12 intersection, according to one rider. That is the place to fill up.
Along the way
- Datil (NM-12)
- Reserve
Good to know
- Services are scarce: fill up in Datil, and expect only small stops at Apache Creek, Aragon, Horse Springs and Reserve.
- The road runs between roughly 6,000 and 7,500 feet, so ice is possible in winter.
- Expect few other cars, and long distances between buildings.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check NMDOT NMRoads.
Questions about this drive
How long does Highway 12 from Datil to Reserve take?
Highway 12 from Datil to Reserve is 66.7 miles and takes about 1 hr 15 min.
Is there gas on Highway 12 in New Mexico?
Gas is limited. Datil is at one end and Reserve at the other, with small stops listed at Apache Creek and Horse Springs, so fill up before you start.
Is Highway 12 in New Mexico twisty?
No. Highway 12 has mild bends over long distances and is better for scenery and light traffic than for curves.
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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.