You can then turn north and continue on N.M. 518 to Ranchos de Taos, 16 miles north, or continue east on N.M. 75 through the sandstone bluffs which border the Embudo River as it heads to the Río Grande through the orchards and art studios of Dixon and surround area.

The community Ranchos de Taos was first founded in 1718.  The famous mission church of Saint Francis was completed in 1815 and is one of best-known churches in New Mexico.  The church is an inspiration for artists, travelers and natives alike.  Its mysterious sculptural form of adobe and wood ahs been portrayed by more artists than any church in the United States.  Here, you can an interesting painting of Christ, with a cross that can be seen in the dark, which does not appear in the light.

St Francis Church at Ranchos de Taos

If you choose to take the Dixon route, you will find an artistic community which is known for its apple orchards and is home of the La Chiripada Winery. This is a great place to stop and reflect or head on to Embudo Station beside the roaring Río Grande. Taos lies 23 miles north of the riverside restaurant on N.M. 68.

You can spend at least a whole day just in Taos, which provides visitors a world of varied experiences.  Visit Taos Pueblo, an ancient living Indian village that has stood unchanged for centuries. Or, explore historic Taos Plaza and its side streets. Many of the old adobe buildings that now house shops and galleries were once the homes of some of Taos' leading citizens - Kit Carson, among them.