There’s a special kind of allure in the quiet corners of Southern New Mexico, where time seems to slow down and the landscapes whisper stories of the past. I’ve spent countless hours exploring these hidden gems, each one offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and solitude.
If you’re like me and crave places where you can disconnect and immerse yourself in serenity, you’ll appreciate this countdown of my favorite secluded towns. From desert plains to mountain retreats, here are ten spots that promise peace, reflection, and a touch of adventure.
10. Secluded Retreat in Winston
Winston, with a cozy population of around 60 residents, is a haven for those seeking a deep connection with nature and a tight-knit community. I love how the town is surrounded by rolling hills and open skies, providing ample opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting.
The area is rich in ranching traditions, and you’ll find that the residents are deeply connected to the land. What makes Winston so secluded is its remote location and the simplicity of country living that allows one to truly disconnect from the hustle of modern life.
There are no bustling industries here—just the quiet hum of rural life and the warmth of friendly neighbors. It’s the perfect place to enjoy star-filled nights and the tranquility of the countryside.
Where is Winston?
Nestled in Sierra County, Winston is located approximately 35 miles northwest of Truth or Consequences along State Highway 52. I find the journey to Winston part of its charm, as the drive takes you through serene desert landscapes and quiet roads less traveled.
The town’s seclusion is heightened by its distance from major highways and urban centers, making it a peaceful retreat away from the noise. Accessing Winston involves a scenic route through the heart of New Mexico’s countryside, which only adds to the feeling of getting away from it all.
9. The Peaceful Village of Arrey
Arrey is a small farming community with a population of around 200 people, offering a tranquil lifestyle along the banks of the Rio Grande. The vast open farmland here gives the village a peaceful atmosphere that I find incredibly soothing.
Agriculture is the mainstay, with local farms producing chile peppers, onions, and cotton that contribute to New Mexico’s rich agricultural heritage. Fishing and bird-watching are popular pastimes, thanks to the proximity of the river and nearby wildlife refuges.
What makes Arrey secluded is its minimal traffic and quiet roads, allowing one to enjoy the simplicity of rural life without the distractions of busy city streets.
Where is Arrey?
Located in Sierra County, Arrey sits about 22 miles south of Truth or Consequences, accessible via Highway 187. The village’s placement along the Rio Grande and away from major freeways adds to its secluded charm.
I enjoy the peaceful drive through the valley to reach Arrey, where the landscape is dotted with fields and the horizons seem endless. The seclusion here isn’t about being completely isolated but rather about embracing the unhurried pace of a small community nestled in the heart of Southern New Mexico.
8. Quiet Reflections in Organ
Organ is a quaint community with approximately 200 residents, located at the foothills of the majestic Organ Mountains. I am always captivated by the expansive desert landscapes and panoramic views that surround the town.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails that wind through the mountains, offering breathtaking vistas and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Originally a mining town, Organ’s history is still visible in some of the old structures and artifacts.
Its secluded nature comes from the vast stretches of open land and the peaceful silence that envelops the area, making it an ideal spot for reflection and escape.
Where is Organ?
Organ is situated in Doña Ana County, just east of Las Cruces along U.S. Route 70. Despite its proximity to the city, the town feels worlds apart due to the natural barrier of the Organ Mountains.
I love how the mountains create a sense of seclusion, sheltering the community from the bustle of urban life. Accessing Organ is straightforward, but once you’re there, the serene environment and stunning landscapes make it feel like a hidden retreat perfect for those seeking peace.
7. The Hidden Valley of San Lorenzo
San Lorenzo, with a small population of about 100 residents, sits quietly in the lush Mimbres Valley. Surrounded by fertile land and embraced by the Black Range Mountains, the town offers a secluded retreat rich in history and nature.
I appreciate how the area is steeped in ancient cultures, with nearby archaeological sites that tell stories of the Mimbres people. Activities include exploring the Gila National Forest, visiting the La Esperanza Vineyard, and enjoying the tranquility of the valley.
The main industries revolve around agriculture and viticulture, contributing to the town’s serene atmosphere. What makes San Lorenzo secluded is its tucked-away location and the dense forests that envelop the area, providing a peaceful escape from the outside world.
Where is San Lorenzo?
Located in Grant County, San Lorenzo is about 30 miles east of Silver City, accessible via Highway 152. The town’s position in the valley, surrounded by mountains and forests, adds to its sense of seclusion.
I find the journey along the winding roads through the Mimbres Valley to be incredibly scenic and calming. The remoteness of San Lorenzo is enhanced by its natural surroundings and the feeling of being enveloped by the landscape, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
6. Tranquility in Kingston
Kingston is a tiny community with a population of around 30 people, tucked into the Black Range Mountains. Once a booming silver mining town, it now offers a serene environment with historic buildings that whisper tales of the past.
I enjoy strolling through the town and imagining its vibrant history while marveling at the untouched natural beauty that surrounds it. Outdoor activities include hiking the nearby trails, bird-watching, and exploring the Gila National Forest.
The seclusion here is palpable, with the mountains providing a natural barrier that makes Kingston feel like a hidden world unto itself.
Where is Kingston?
Situated in Sierra County, Kingston is accessible via Highway 152, about 40 miles west of Truth or Consequences. The drive to Kingston is an adventure in itself, winding through the picturesque Black Range with breathtaking vistas at every turn.
The town’s remoteness is accentuated by the rugged terrain and limited access routes. I find that the journey reinforces the feeling of stepping back in time and entering a peaceful enclave far removed from modern distractions.
5. Discovering Mogollon Ghost Town
Mogollon is an intriguing ghost town with a fluctuating population that hovers around a dozen residents. Nestled in the Mogollon Mountains, it offers a unique secluded experience with its preserved historic buildings and the rugged mountain backdrop.
I am fascinated by the remnants of New Mexico’s mining past that are still visible throughout the town. Visitors can explore old mines, visit the local museum, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding Gila National Forest.
The lack of modern development and the town’s remote location make Mogollon feel like a step back in time, adding to its secluded allure.
Where is Mogollon?
Located in Catron County, Mogollon is about 12 miles northeast of Glenwood via a winding mountain road. The journey to Mogollon is part of the adventure, with narrow roads that weave through stunning landscapes.
I find that the challenging accessibility contributes to its isolation, deterring casual tourists and preserving its tranquil atmosphere. The town’s elevation and surrounding wilderness areas enhance the feeling of remoteness, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a touch of history.
4. The Remote Beauty of Rodeo
Rodeo is a small community with a population of around 100 people, located near the Arizona border. The stunning desert vistas and clear night skies here are ideal for stargazing, something I cherish when visiting.
The town is home to the Chiricahua Desert Museum and various art galleries, reflecting a vibrant yet understated cultural scene. Ranching is a significant part of the local economy, and there’s a close-knit feel among residents.
Rodeo’s seclusion stems from its vast open spaces and distance from urban centers, offering a peaceful retreat under the expansive Southwestern sky.
Where is Rodeo?
Situated in Hidalgo County, Rodeo lies along State Highway 80 at the southwestern edge of New Mexico. The remote location near the Peloncillo Mountains and the border with Arizona enhances its secluded nature.
I enjoy the sense of escape as I drive through the open desert landscapes to reach Rodeo. The town’s isolation is furthered by the limited infrastructure and the surrounding wilderness, making it a perfect spot for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
3. Escape to Hachita’s Open Plains
Hachita is a tiny unincorporated community with an estimated population of just 50 residents, set amidst vast open plains. The sparse population and quiet simplicity here appeal to anyone seeking solitude in the desert.
I appreciate the town’s historical roots as a mining and railroad hub, though today it’s a quiet place with minimal activity. The main industries are ranching and a small amount of tourism from those intrigued by its history.
Hachita’s seclusion is due to its remote location and the expansive landscapes that surround it, offering uninterrupted views and a profound sense of peace.
Where is Hachita?
Located in Grant County, Hachita sits along State Highway 9, about 45 miles east of the Arizona border. The town’s position far from major highways and urban centers contributes to its remote feel.
Reaching Hachita involves traversing long stretches of desert road, which I find both humbling and serene. The vastness of the surrounding desert underscores the town’s isolation, making it an ideal destination for those who truly want to get away from it all.
2. Serenity in Glenwood
Glenwood is a peaceful enclave with a population of approximately 200 residents, surrounded by the lush Gila National Forest. Natural hot springs and forested trails make it a haven for relaxation and outdoor activities.
I enjoy hiking to the nearby Catwalk National Recreation Trail, where a suspended walkway follows a scenic canyon. The town’s main industries are tourism and small businesses that cater to visitors exploring the natural surroundings.
Glenwood’s seclusion is enhanced by its mountain setting and the dense forests that envelop the area, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and a retreat for those seeking serenity.
Where is Glenwood?
Located in Catron County, Glenwood is accessible via U.S. Route 180, about 65 miles northwest of Silver City. The town’s location within the Gila National Forest means it’s surrounded by protected wilderness areas.
I find the drive to Glenwood to be a journey through some of New Mexico’s most beautiful landscapes. The remoteness is part of its charm, with the forest providing a natural barrier that keeps the hustle and bustle at bay.
1. The Historic Charm of Hillsboro
Hillsboro is a quaint town with a population of around 150 people, nestled in the Sierra County mountains. Its rich mining history is evident in the preserved architecture and historical sites scattered throughout the town.
I love strolling along the quiet streets, visiting the local museum, and enjoying the tranquil landscapes that surround the area. Industries here are minimal, with some art galleries, restaurants, and bed-and-breakfasts catering to visitors.
Hillsboro’s seclusion comes from its mountain setting and the sense of stepping back in time, providing an idyllic escape from the pressures of modern life.
Where is Hillsboro?
Hillsboro is located along Highway 152, about 17 miles west of Interstate 25 and 30 miles southwest of Truth or Consequences. The town’s mountain location contributes to its secluded ambiance, nestled among the Black Range Mountains.
I find the drive through the twists and turns of the highway to be a delightful prelude to arriving in Hillsboro. The seclusion is deepened by the limited cell service and the absence of large commercial developments, making it a perfect destination for those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in history and nature.
