Espanola, New Mexico The Jewel of Northern New Mexico. Espanola was founded in 1598 by Spain as the first capital of New Mexico. It sits in the northern Rio Grande Valley between the Jemez Mountains and Truchas Peaks, and is a very convenient base for exploring northern New Mexico. Espanola has many lodging options and the best selection of restaurants. Don’t miss the world-class local artists. Let us be your tour guide through the Beautiful Espanola Valley.
- Espanola
is located in Rio Arriba County just north of Santa Fe between Los Alamos and Taos along US Highway 84 on the banks of the Rio Grande River near Santa Cruz Lake.
- Located twenty five (25) miles north of Santa Fe, 45 miles south of Taos
and 25 miles east of Los Alamos. - The area provides many recreation opportunities, including hiking, horseback riding, biking, whitewater rafting and kayaking.
- In Winter you can ski and snowboard at nearby Taos, Angel Fire, Santa Fe, and other ski areas. Cross-country skiing is also excellent.
- The area has a rich Indian heritage and many historical sites. Nearby sites include Anasazi sites at Bandelier National Monument and Puye Cliff Dwellings. A few hours away you will find Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde National Park.
- The region celebrates traditional Hispanic and Pueblo Indian cultures with fiestas held throughout the year.
- Elevation 5,595′
- Climate: Located in the Rio Grande Valley between two ranges of mountains surrounded by mesas, the area enjoys four distinct seasons with low humidity all year round. Average annual rainfall is 10 in; average annual snowfall is 14in. Average Temp – Jan: 40 – July: 80
