Reserve to Pinehill – 166 Miles

As is common along the NMBDR, gas stations are sparse, so don’t forget to top off while in Reserve – the small service station in Luna is now closed. This route parallels Arizona, all it takes is a quick ride 500 feet down a fork to hit the state line. You’ll pass scads of Piñon and Juniper and catch glimpses of ancient cliff dwellings high along the cliffs. By and by, the track drops down into a high desert and then heads due north to US Highway 60 and the Zuni Reservation. An overlook near the Zuni Salt Lake showcases just how desolate and otherworldly this area truly is. There’s a wild and terrible beauty in western New Mexico unlike any other state in the Union.

Consider a visit to the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary in Candy Kitchen, across the street from the General Store, and where roughly 90 wolves are housed at any given time. It’s a fascinating learning experience and a donation will be much appreciated.