What is a Scenic Byway?
The Santa Fe Trail New Mexico National Scenic Byway is part of the National Scenic Byways Program created by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration in 1992. America’s Byways ®, which include the National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads. This grass-roots effort to help recognize, preserve and enhance selected roads throughout the United States also serves as unique marketing tool for the many unique sites of interest along the national highway system. As more and more interstate highways were developed, many of the wonderful communities that used to thrive on tourism were slowly fading away. America’s Byways program encourage travelers to visit those places along the byways that offer travelers an experience of breathtaking scenic beauty, unique recreational activities or sites of historical/archeological significance. Thereby helping to preserve, protect and promote these designated areas.
