The day was marked by a series of rookie mistakes, the kind that can frustrate you, make you question your decisions, or simply force you to make the best of things. The Hillsboro Café was closed for a private event. That would have taken a simple phone call to discover. The Gila Cliff Dwellings closed to visitors at 4 p.m. That also would have taken a simple phone call. Despite all of it, the day became the most magical riding day I have ever experienced. Because we did not know, we rode roads we otherwise would not have chosen. Were we better for the lack of planning? In this case, I would say yes. New Mexico offers exceptional pavement, deeply engaging roads, and a landscape so diverse that it feels like crossing the entire country in a single day.

We started the morning late and quickly realized we had crossed time zones, moving from Arizona time to Mountain Standard Time. Rather than adjust, we decided to stay on Arizona time for the day. Our first destination was Hillsboro, aiming for breakfast at the general store. Closed for a private event. That left a decision point. Hot dogs at the small farmer’s market in Hillsboro, or ride back to Truth or Consequences for breakfast. I had never been to Truth or Consequences, so we turned around. Breakfast at Johnny B’s was simple and good. Afterward we took a slow ride through town. You can feel the energy there. It has a character that is hard to describe but unmistakable once you experience it.

From there we retraced our route through Hillsboro and entered what can only be described as motorcycle fun land along NM 152.

The combination of NM 152, NM 35, and NM 15 may be the finest stretch of pavement in America. NM 152 is intensely engaging, technical, and rewarding. It demands attention and gives back every mile. As the road transitions into NM 35, the landscape softens and the riding begins to feel like the small byways of Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina all blended together. Then NM 15 turns north and the character changes again. The road tightens into demanding twisties that eventually open into vast views that make you feel like you have ridden into true wilderness. And then, almost without warning, you are transported back to around 1000 A.D. Standing before the Gila Cliff Dwellings, you feel small as you imagine how the first people built their lives in this remote and unforgiving place.

We arrived too late to explore the dwellings, which was disappointing, but we turned south and began the ride back toward Silver City along NM 15. The GPS suggested a faster route. I ignored it. I was committed to running the road. As we passed the NM 15 and NM 35 junction, the center line disappeared and the ride transformed into something even more special. It was some of the most romantic motorcycling I have experienced in years. The kind of road that calls for a small displacement scrambler, an open face helmet, goggles, and your favorite ridiculous riding costume. A road meant for slowing down, drifting through the curves, and simply existing in the vast wilderness around you.

We entered Silver City through Pinos Altos, stopped for ice cream in town, and took a moment to relax before beginning the long miles back to Hatch. Should we have stayed the night in Silver City? Yes. Would it have been more efficient to do that and head home the next day? Also yes. Did the decision mean extra miles and less rubber left on the tires? Absolutely. Was it worth it? Without question.

Riding across the wide open expanse of US 180 and NM 26 at sunset was worth every mile. The horizon opened endlessly in every direction and you felt completely lost inside it. As the sun fell, the sky seemed to ignite into a deep fire red torch that stretched across the heavens.

Dinner at Pepe’s Cocina in Hatch reminded us just how close we were to Mexico. We were the only people in the restaurant speaking English. The rhythm of Spanish around the room made you aware of how deeply the cultures blend here, and how diverse our country truly is.

We returned to the inn exhausted and satisfied.

For me, it was a magical day. Maybe one of the best. The ones you ride for.