Red River, NM

Red River is located on NM Hwy 38 along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico. Oral history has it that Red River was founded on July 3, 1895, by Colorado miner Edward I. Jones and the Red River City Town and Mineral Company. The town was named after the Red River which runs through it. Prospectors arrived in droves, and by 1897 the population of the town was estimated around 3000. Gold fever didn't last long, and by 1905 the population had dwindled to 150. Word eventually spread that Red River was a great place to escape the summer heat and do a little quality trout fishing, so the town replaced mining with tourism. Main Street (NM 38) is lined with hotels, restaurants, and curio shops. The Red River Ski and Summer Area opened in 1959-60, turning Red River into a four season destination offering skiing in the winter, and hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months. To me, Red River still retains an aura of the old west.

Red River 1998

Red River 2021

Buildings at the "Y"

The "Y" is the junction of NM 38 and NM 578. NM 578 continues east as Main Street, and NM 38 continues west as Main Street. Hope this doesn't confuse you. The museums and library are located at the "Y".

Red River Library

The Little Red School House, built around 1915-1916, is located behind the Red River Public Library at "the Y," Itwas built to replace the original log schoolhouse which was destroyed by fire. The building was moved in 1999 from its original location on the banks of Bitter Creek to its present location. Today the school houses the Red River Historical Society. The museum features a turn of the century classroom where kids got an "old-fashioned education".

Little Red School House Museum

The Young Museum

Haven't a clue, but I like it.

Buildings along Main Street

Businesses catering to the tourist trade line both sides of Main Street, especially eating and sleeping establishments.