The land around Taos does something unusual with scale—it stretches wide while rising high, compressing centuries of habitation into villages that feel both ancient and provisional. The air carries the tang of piñon smoke and the hush of distant rivers; silence isn’t empty here, it’s textured. In the foothills and folds of the Sangre de Cristos, neighborhoods like Valdez, Lama, and Des Montes lie draped across the land like handwoven blankets, each with its own pattern of solitude, earth tones, and quiet endurance.
To live here is to surrender, slightly, to terrain. Roads drift rather than rush. Property lines blur into sagebrush. Homes are half-embedded in the land, their adobe walls thick with intention, built to hold heat, history, and the stories of those who shaped them. No one moves to Arroyo Hondo or Talpa by accident. These aren’t suburbs or sprawl—they’re small acts of devotion to stillness and landscape.
This guide isn’t about amenities. It’s about atmosphere. Each neighborhood gathered here offers a version of quiet that feels earned. Whether you’re drawn to the snow-flecked rim of El Salto or the mesa views of Tres Piedras, what you’ll find is not so much isolation as a kind of elemental clarity.
10. Talpa – Secluded Serenity Amidst the High Desert
Talpa is a peaceful rural community that epitomizes secluded serenity in the high desert of New Mexico. With large acreage properties, residents enjoy ample privacy surrounded by natural beauty and free from urban disturbances.
The landscape is dotted with traditional adobe homes and offers stunning views of the surrounding sagebrush plains and distant mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby hiking trails, relish bird watching, or soak in Talpa’s tranquil ambiance.
The area is also steeped in rich cultural history, with local art galleries and historical sites reflecting its heritage. With an approximate population of just a few hundred, Talpa offers a tight-knit community where neighbors value the quiet, simple life.
Where is Talpa?
Talpa is located just south of Taos, nestled along State Road 518 in Taos County. Its position in the high desert plains affords it panoramic views and a sense of openness unique to the region.
The community is surrounded by natural beauty, including the nearby Carson National Forest, which enhances its secluded feel. Reaching Talpa is straightforward via State Road 68 from Taos, followed by a short drive along State Road 518, making it accessible yet wonderfully removed from the hustle and bustle.
9. Llano Quemado – Rural Charm South of Taos
Llano Quemado is a quaint community with rural charm, featuring expansive lots perfect for those seeking solitude. The area is characterized by minimal development, allowing residents to enjoy uninterrupted views of the high desert landscape.
Nature lovers will feel at home with opportunities for hiking and horseback riding and appreciate the serene environment. The community maintains strong agricultural roots, with local farms and ranches contributing to its authentic atmosphere.
Residents appreciate the quietude and privacy of living in a low-density area. With a population of only a few hundred, Llano Quemado provides a serene setting that fosters a deep connection with nature.
Where is Llano Quemado?
Situated just south of Taos along State Road 68, Llano Quemado lies within the southern part of Taos County. Its location offers easy access to Taos while maintaining a sense of seclusion from the town’s busier areas.
The Rio Grande Gorge is nearby, adding a dramatic natural feature to the landscape and providing recreational activities. To get there, follow State Road 68 from Taos heading south, and you’ll arrive in Llano Quemado in just a few minutes, making it accessible and peacefully removed from urban centers.
8. Valdez – A Quiet Village in the Foothills
Valdez is a small community tucked away in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering a tranquil atmosphere ideal for secluded living. The village is home to expansive properties that provide residents privacy and space to enjoy the natural surroundings.
The area is rich with natural barriers like wooded areas and rolling hills, enhancing the sense of seclusion. Outdoor activities abound, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the nearby Taos Ski Valley.
Its traditional architecture and peaceful lifestyle enhance the village’s charm. With an approximate population of less than 500 people, Valdez is a haven for those seeking a quiet retreat.
Where is Valdez?
Valdez is located northeast of Taos, nestled along State Road 230 in Taos County. The community sits at the base of the mountains, providing stunning views and easy access to alpine environments.
To reach Valdez, take State Road 150 from Taos towards Taos Ski Valley, then turn onto State Road 230. The drive offers scenic vistas and reflects the transition from desert to mountainous terrain, immersing visitors in the region’s natural beauty.
7. Lama – Remote Living Amidst Nature
Lama is a remote community that offers expansive lots surrounded by forests, providing a peaceful, low-density environment away from urban hustle. Residents embrace a lifestyle deeply connected with nature, often living off-grid and prioritizing sustainability.
The area is enveloped by the tranquility of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, with abundant wildlife and pristine natural landscapes. Activities such as hiking, meditation, and retreats are common, fostering a serene and introspective atmosphere.
The Lama Foundation, a spiritual retreat center, is a notable landmark contributing to the community’s unique character. With a population of less than 100, Lama epitomizes seclusion and a harmonious existence with the natural world.
Where is Lama?
Lama is located north of Taos along State Road 522, on the slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The community’s elevation provides cooler temperatures and stunning vistas of the Rio Grande Gorge and surrounding peaks.
To get to Lama, drive north from Taos on State Road 522 for about 20 miles, then turn onto Lama Foundation Road, which leads into the heart of the community. The road is a journey through picturesque landscapes, enhancing the sense of retreat from the everyday.
6. El Salto – Mountain Seclusion Near Taos
El Salto is a secluded setting at the base of El Salto Mountain, offering privacy, large properties, and proximity to natural attractions like waterfalls. The neighborhood is renowned for its serene ambiance, provided by lush forests, rugged terrain, and the whisper of mountain streams.
Residents enjoy hiking to El Salto Falls, a hidden gem that locals cherish, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna. The traditional Southwestern architecture adds to the charm, blending seamlessly with the landscape.
Outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat will find El Salto enchanting. With a small population, it provides a secluded haven just a short distance from more populated areas.
Where is El Salto?
El Salto is located northeast of Taos, near the village of Arroyo Seco, along State Road 150. The community sits at the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering easy access to both Taos Ski Valley and the Carson National Forest.
To reach El Salto, head north from Taos on State Road 150 towards Arroyo Seco, then take local roads that wind up towards the mountain. The journey takes you through charming villages and into the heart of New Mexico’s mountainous terrain, making it accessible and secluded.
5. Carson – A Hidden Gem in the High Desert
Carson is a small, unincorporated community that stands as a hidden gem in the high desert of New Mexico. With large lot sizes and minimal development, residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by natural landscapes.
The expansive Carson National Forest envelopes the community, providing endless hiking, camping, and exploration opportunities. The stark beauty of the high desert, with its rugged mesas and clear skies, offers a serene backdrop for those seeking solitude.
Local artisans and craftsmen add a touch of cultural richness to the area. With a population of less than 300, Carson remains distant from busy roads and urban centers, making it an ideal spot for secluded living.
Where is Carson?
Carson is located southwest of Taos, accessible via U.S. Route 64 and south on State Road 567. The community sits on the edge of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, offering dramatic views of the gorge and access to remote wilderness areas.
To get there from Taos, take U.S. Route 64 west towards Tres Piedras, then turn onto State Road 567 heading south into Carson. The drive takes you through scenic high desert landscapes, highlighting the area’s rugged beauty and remoteness.
4. Tres Piedras – Wide Open Spaces West of Taos
Tres Piedras is a sparsely populated area known for its vast undeveloped land and wide-open spaces. The natural barriers created by the surrounding landscapes provide a low-traffic, peaceful atmosphere cherished by residents.
The area is a haven for those who appreciate solitude, with opportunities for stargazing, hiking, and enjoying the tranquility of the high desert. The San Juan Mountains to the north and the Carson National Forest to the east add to the region’s natural attractions.
With an approximate population of around 200 people, Tres Piedras offers a unique blend of seclusion and accessibility to some of New Mexico’s most beautiful natural areas.
Where is Tres Piedras?
Situated west of Taos along U.S. Route 64, Tres Piedras is on the western edge of Taos County. The community’s location provides expansive views and easy access to the Carson National Forest.
To get there from Taos, drive west on U.S. Route 64 for about 30 miles, and you’ll arrive in Tres Piedras. The journey takes you through stunning high desert landscapes and over the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, adding an element of adventure to the trip.
3. San Cristobal – Seclusion in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
San Cristobal is a remote village in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering large acreages, minimal development, and a serene natural environment. Dense forests, meadows, and the gentle flow of San Cristobal Creek characterize the area.
Residents can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing from their backyards. The community has a rich artistic and cultural heritage, with D.H. Lawrence having spent time in the area, adding a touch of literary history.
With a small population of about 250 people, San Cristobal provides a secluded retreat where one can truly disconnect from the bustle of modern life.
Where is San Cristobal?
San Cristobal is located north of Taos off State Road 522, nestled in the heart of the mountains. To reach the village, drive north from Taos on State Road 522 for about 15 miles, then turn east onto San Cristobal Canyon Road.
The road winds through picturesque landscapes, leading you deeper into the tranquil mountain setting. The proximity to both the mountains and the Rio Grande Gorge offers unique recreational opportunities and stunning natural beauty.
2. Des Montes – Peaceful Living with Mountain Views
Des Montes is a quiet area featuring expansive properties and breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, ideal for those seeking privacy. The community is surrounded by lush orchards and fields, with the sound of rustling leaves and distant mountain streams creating a peaceful ambiance.
Residents enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring the nearby Taos Ski Valley. The fertile area also makes it perfect for gardening and small-scale farming. With a population of several hundred, Des Montes offers a serene environment while being part of a welcoming community.
Where is Des Montes?
Des Montes is located northeast of Taos along State Road 150, on the way to Taos Ski Valley. The community’s location offers easy access to the mountains and nearby Arroyo Seco’s amenities.
To get there from Taos, take State Road 150 north for about 10 miles. The drive is scenic, with sweeping views of the mountains and valleys, reinforcing the feeling of entering a peaceful retreat away from city life.
1. Arroyo Hondo – A Tranquil Riverside Retreat
Arroyo Hondo is a secluded community north of Taos with large acreages along the Rio Hondo, surrounded by natural beauty and distant from urban noise. The neighborhood offers residents the tranquility of riverside living, with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the lush vegetation along the riverbanks.
The area is rich in history, with ancient pueblo sites and historical buildings adding charm. Artists and writers are drawn to Arroyo Hondo for its inspiring landscapes and serene environment.
With an approximate population of around 500 people, the community provides a peaceful haven where one can relax and appreciate the simplicity of rural life.
Where is Arroyo Hondo?
Arroyo Hondo is located just north of Taos along State Road 522, where the Rio Hondo flows into the Rio Grande. To get there from Taos, drive north on State Road 522 for about 8 miles until you reach the turnoff for Arroyo Hondo Road.
The location offers easy access to the high desert and the mountains and is near the John Dunn Bridge, a local favorite spot for hot springs and river recreation. The community’s riverside setting and natural beauty make it a true retreat from the stresses of everyday life.
