A Jeeping Adventure to Jemez Pueblo & Jemez Springs

A Jeeping Adventure to Jemez Pueblo & Jemez Springs

One of the things we love most about Jeeping is the ability to take off on a whim, and our recent trip to Jemez Pueblo and Jemez Springs was exactly that. We hopped into our 2024 Jeep Rubicon 4xe, pointed it toward the mountains, and set out for a day of exploring some of New Mexico’s most scenic spots.

Driving through Jemez Pueblo, the landscape quickly shifted from open desert to towering red rock cliffs. The winding roads are perfect for the Jeep, with plenty of spots to pull over and take in the view. It’s the kind of drive that reminds us why we chose this lifestyle – the freedom to go wherever the road leads.

Our first stop was Soda Dam, a natural hot spring formation that has been sculpted over thousands of years. The mineral-stained rock and rushing water create a scene that feels almost otherworldly. We parked the Jeep and took some time to climb around and soak in the sights and sounds of the canyon.

From there, we continued up to Battleship Rock, a massive volcanic formation that really does look like a ship’s hull rising from the forest. The cool mountain air and the smell of pine made it the perfect place to relax and snap a few photos of the Jeep against the backdrop of this unique landmark.

On our way back, we stopped at the roadside market in Jemez Pueblo, ready to grab some traditional oven bread and fried bread. Unfortunately, it was closed this time, but that just means we’ll have to plan another trip back soon – and we’re never opposed to another adventure!

As we headed home, the sun lit up the cliffs in shades of orange and gold, making the drive back just as beautiful as the journey up. Trips like this are exactly why we started J & T Jeeping on a Whim – exploring close to home, finding hidden gems, and making memories in our Jeep together.

Until the next whim,

– J & T Jeeping on a Whim

Exploring the Rugged Beauty of the Organ Mountains – Las Cruces, NM

 On a whim, we packed up the Jeep and headed toward the stunning Organ Mountains, just east of Las Cruces, New Mexico. The dramatic peaks had been calling to us for a while, and it was finally time to answer. With the silver-and-blue Rubicon 4xe ready to roll, we set out for a weekend of exploration, fresh air, and some much-needed disconnect from the digital world.

The drive into the Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks National Monument was smooth and scenic, with vast desert vistas giving way to jagged granite spires. To be honest, you don’t need a Jeep or other off-road vehicle - it’s all leg power and a lot of hiking (which we didn’t do).  

At 100 degrees and no relief in sight, we wussed out and walked around the office area at the Organ Mountains. We were prepared with the right shoes, clothing and plenty of water.  But it was clearly the wrong time of the year to actually enjoy all that the mountains have to offer.

What we did see was very cool and the mountain structures offer a lot of nooks and crannies to hike too and high, high peaks!  We really wish we would have been able or willing to explore, but the heat won this time.

The Organ Mountains delivered everything we love about Jeeping: freedom, discovery, and those unforgettable backroad views. It’s a place we’ll definitely return to — maybe next time with a bit more trail challenge.

Until the next whim,

– J & T Jeeping on a Whim

Maggie’s Diner in Madrid, New Mexico

 Maggie’s Diner in Madrid, New Mexico

By J & T Jeeping on a Whim

Tucked along the scenic Turquoise Trail between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, Madrid, New Mexico is one of those places that surprises you in all the best ways. What was once a bustling coal mining town turned ghost town has transformed into an artsy, offbeat stop filled with character—and characters.

We rolled into town in our trusty silver Jeep, excited to check out a place we’ve heard so much about. Madrid is known for its vibrant galleries, eclectic shops, and local flair, but let’s be honest—we wanted to see Maggie’s Diner.

If you’ve seen the 2007 movie Wild Hogs with Tim Allen and John Travolta, you’ll recognize Maggie’s Diner right away. While the film made it look like a lively roadside eatery, the diner was actually built just for the movie. Today, it stands as a fully stocked souvenir shop celebrating the film and biker culture.

A very kind lady working there at the time explained that after wrapping up the film the production company offered to demo the building. The owner of the land decided to keep it standing and brought it up to code so they could turn this movie set into a business.  

The building still feels like it could serve up a mean plate of hash browns and eggs, with its rustic wood façade and classic signage. Inside, the walls are lined with leather vests, motorcycle gear, and photos from the movie. It’s a fun little detour, even if you’re not a big film buff. For us, it was like stepping onto a movie set.

Madrid reminded us why we started Jeeping on a Whim in the first place—to find those hidden gems where time slows down and adventure finds you. Whether you're chasing movie nostalgia or just looking for a unique stop off the beaten path, this little New Mexico town is worth the detour.

If you ever find yourself cruising the Turquoise Trail, don’t skip Madrid—and definitely don’t miss Maggie’s Diner. Just don’t expect a hot meal… unless you count the sun-soaked hood of a silver Jeep.

Until next time,
J & T

Madrid New Mexico 2025

 A Quirky Detour: Our Short Trip to Madrid, NM

By J & T Jeeping on a Whim

On a whim (as usual), we pointed our silver Jeep with the blue accents north and found ourselves winding along the scenic Turquoise Trail. Just about an hour from Albuquerque, Madrid, New Mexico, greeted us with sunshine, art, and a whole lot of character.

Madrid (pronounced MAD-rid, not like the Spanish capital!) is a one-road town packed with funky energy. It used to be a coal mining town but now thrives as a quirky artist community full of galleries, shops, and local flair. Parking the Jeep just off the main drag, we could already hear live music drifting down the road and smell the sweet scent of roasting green chile in the air.

As we rolled into town, we were instantly struck by Madrid’s character. It’s not a place that pretends to be anything other than what it is—eclectic, vibrant, and wonderfully weird. Colorful art galleries, funky boutiques, and locally-owned shops line the main street, most of them housed in restored miner cabins.

One of our first stops was the Mineshaft Tavern, a local legend that’s been serving cold drinks and live music for decades. The building oozes old mining town charm, and we couldn’t resist grabbing a veggie burger and a tall bourbon and coke while soaking up the vibe from the patio.

Every storefront in Madrid has its own story, and most of the shop owners are happy to chat. We met a jewelry artist who told us he came through on a road trip twenty years ago and never left. Madrid has that effect—like time slows down just enough to make you question the rush of modern life.

We stopped in to Java Junction, it hit the spot with a hot vanilla latte and some homemade pastries that were almost too pretty to eat. Fueled up, we wandered through shops like Always Oktober, which offers hilarious/dark clothing and collectibles, and Cerrillos Turquoise, where New Mexico artists provide the jewelry.

Some places started shutting down between 4 and 5 PM.  We missed going on the Mine Shaft tour and the Ghost Tour - so we will leave those for next time.

Although we only stayed for the day, Madrid left a big impression. It’s the kind of place that feels like a secret—even though it’s just a short drive from Albuquerque. There’s no cell service in parts of town, and somehow that made the experience even better. Unplugged and unhurried, we were reminded why we love Jeeping on a whim: it’s about the freedom to explore, to get lost in new places, and to stumble upon towns like this that you never knew you needed.

- J & T
Jeeping on a Whim

Welcome to J & T Jeeping On A Whim!

 

Hey there, fellow adventurers!

We’re James and Tanya — just a couple with a love for the open road, beautiful views, and the thrill of discovery. After years of dreaming, wandering, and backroad exploring, we’ve finally decided to document our adventures and share them with the world.

We recently traded in our trusty 2018 Jeep Wrangler and upgraded to a brand-new 2024 Jeep Rubicon 4xe — and let us tell you, we are loving it. The power, the tech, and the eco-friendly hybrid twist are exactly what we needed for the next chapter of our off-road journeys.  The EV option was not a requirement, but, we couldn’t pass up the deal on this Rubicon.  It’s more a function to use while running around in town.

We’re starting our adventures close to home here in New Mexico, a place full of hidden gems, rugged trails, desert beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether it's a quick weekend getaway or a spontaneous off-road escape, we're always up for the next adventure — hence the name J & T Jeeping On A Whim.

So buckle up and join us as we explore places both familiar and uncharted. We’ll be sharing our routes, favorite stops, gear tips, and maybe a few bumps (and laughs) along the way.

Catch you on the trail,
James & Tanya