We Challenge You to Correctly Identify These Ten New Mexico Locations on Your First Attempt (Spoiler Alert: You Can’t)

New Mexico is a land of mystery, hidden gems, and place names that will stump even the most seasoned traveler. Here are ten locations that are nearly impossible to pinpoint on your first try—can you guess where they are?

1. Truth or Consequences

Formerly known as Hot Springs, this town changed its name in 1950 after a radio show contest. It’s famous for its healing hot springs and quirky festivals.

2. Pie Town

Yes, it’s a real place! Located along U.S. Highway 60, Pie Town is a tiny community renowned for its homemade pies and an annual Pie Festival.

3. Chloride

Once a booming silver mining town, Chloride is now a semi-ghost town with preserved 19th-century buildings and a museum.

4. Madrid

Pronounced “MAD-rid” (not like the Spanish capital), this former coal-mining town is now an artsy enclave on the Turquoise Trail, filled with galleries and quirky shops.

5. Elephant Butte

Named after a rock formation resembling an elephant, this town is best known for Elephant Butte Lake, the state’s largest reservoir and a popular spot for boating and fishing.

6. Tucumcari

Located on historic Route 66, Tucumcari is famous for its vintage neon signs, classic motels, and murals that celebrate its highway heritage.

7. Cloudcroft

Nestled high in the Sacramento Mountains, Cloudcroft is a cool alpine village known for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and old-fashioned wooden boardwalks.

8. Hatch

Dubbed the “Chile Capital of the World,” Hatch is world-famous for its spicy green chiles and the annual Hatch Chile Festival.

9. Zuni Pueblo

One of New Mexico’s oldest continuously inhabited communities, Zuni Pueblo is renowned for its vibrant Native American art, jewelry, and traditional ceremonies.

10. Jemez Springs

Tucked away in the Jemez Mountains, this village is famous for its hot springs, red rock canyons, and the nearby ruins of ancient pueblos.