Magdalena is called “Trails End” for the 125 year old railroad line between Socorro and Magdalena. Miners loaded millions of pounds of ore from the mines while Cowboys drove tens of thousands of sheep and cattle along the “Magdalena Trail”. Then the Santa Fe RR transported them all to the hungry Eastern markets.

Nestled in the beauty of the 10,000 foot Magdalena Mountains, a rich blend of Navajo/Apache, Spanish, and European families continue to make their living by sharing the stories and beauty of Magdalena with visitors.

Less than 2 hours from Albuquerque but a Century Away!

Magdalena’s moderate climate with mild temperatures provides for excellent year-round exploration. Located on historic U.S. Route 60 the town is lined with numerous galleries, historic buildings, stores, hiking trails and attractions. This pristine and rugged mountain area is renowned as one of the most remote and scenic areas in the world.  Accordingly, area parks and national forests provide limitless back-road opportunities for hikers, bikers, motorcyclists, birdwatchers, hunters and outdoor adventurers. 

A modern day wonder awaits just west of Magdalena, the Very Large Array. This collection of 29 large dish satellite antennas is operated by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory and captures the world’s most detailed images of outer space.  From modern technology back to the days of the Old West, Magdalena is a New Mexico treasure.