New Mexico’s Under-the-Radar Cowboy Country

They call it Cowboy Country — New Mexico’s still largely wild and rugged northeast. The region boasts more plains than peaks, short-grass prairie dotted with hidden lakes and deep river-carved canyons.

Once the domain of cattle barons, pioneers making their way along the legendary Santa Fe Trail, and notorious outlaws like Billy the Kid, the state’s under-the-radar northeast retains its Wild West aura through working ranches, dramatic wilderness landscapes, rugged Western residents, and storied stops along Route 66.

Canyon Madness Ranch could not have picked a better location for a spread that offers a variety of horseback experiences and outdoor sporting options.

This outdoor adventure playground is located in a spectacular wilderness setting overlooking remote Canadian River Canyon about a 2.5-hour drive from Santa Fe and three-hour drive from Albuquerque.

The ranch revolves around Teepee Lodge, an architectural masterpiece cantilevered over the edge of Canadian River Canyon. The double A-frame structure boasts eight suites with contemporary décor and incomparable canyon views.

With 14,000 acres to explore, guests can channel their inner cowboy and cowgirl by saddling up for horse-related activities like trail rides along the canyon rims and along the river. Among other CMR activities are off-road safaris, hiking and climbing, mountain biking, photography, fishing, hunting, canoeing and kayaking, clay and trap shooting courses, and pistol, rifle and archery ranges.