Interstate 40: Tijeras to Edgewood – New Mexico

We’re heading east through central New Mexico on a short but scenic stretch of Interstate 40, covering the 12 miles from Tijeras to Edgewood. This segment, although brief, offers a classic taste of the high desert terrain nestled against the eastern slopes of the Sandia Mountains, and makes for an easy escape from Albuquerque into the quieter parts of Bernalillo and Santa Fe counties.

Our drive begins in Tijeras, a small village that serves as a natural gateway between the mountains and the plains. As we merge onto I-40 eastbound, we’re immediately surrounded by piñon and juniper woodlands typical of this altitude. Tijeras sits right at the base of the Tijeras Canyon, and if you’re interested in a short detour, the Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site is located just off NM-337. It’s worth a quick visit for those interested in learning more about the area’s ancient Indigenous cultures.

Cruising out of Tijeras, we soon pass Zuzax, a quirky little stop with an equally quirky name. Although it’s mostly residential now, Zuzax was once known for its roadside novelty shops during the heyday of Route 66. A few remnants of that era can still be spotted if you keep an eye out. From here, the route veers slightly southeast as we pass through Sedillo Hill, which offers some nice views of the distant mesas and foothills. The Sedillo area is mostly rural but known locally for horseback trails and quiet neighborhoods tucked into the landscape.

Approaching Edgewood, the scenery opens up into wider high-desert plains. Here, the road begins to flatten out after the modest mountain climb earlier in the route. Edgewood has grown in recent years from a sleepy rural town into a bustling commuter hub for Albuquerque. At Exit 187, we end our eastbound run. This interchange puts you right in the heart of Edgewood, near shops, restaurants, and several gas stations—making it a common stop for travelers needing to refuel or grab a bite.

If you’re continuing eastbound on I-40, you’ll soon reach the Moriarty area, known for its aviation history and wide-open skies. But if you’re ending your journey here, Edgewood offers access to local hiking trails and scenic byways such as NM-344, which leads north into the East Mountains.

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