Clayton Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink, accommodations, local culture, safety, and logistics in Clayton, New Mexico. Plan your adventure today!


Introduction to Clayton

Clayton is a small town located in the northeastern part of New Mexico, USA, nestled near the Colorado and Oklahoma borders. The town has a population of approximately 3,000 people and offers scenic views of the nearby mountains and plains. Clayton is rich in history and culture, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Also known as the “Gateway to New Mexico,” Clayton offers a warm welcome to travelers looking for an unforgettable experience.

List of Places to Visit in Clayton

Clayton is home to several historical landmarks and natural attractions. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, a cultural experience, or a taste of local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Clayton. Here are some of the must-visit destinations in Clayton:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Clayton Historical Museum This museum tells the story of Clayton’s rich history through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs. It showcases the town’s early settlers, the Santa Fe Trail, Dinosaur fossils, and the famous Black Jack Ketchum trial.

  • Herzstein Memorial Museum Located in nearby Cimarron, this museum is a must-visit for those interested in Old West history. It houses collections of firearms, mining, and transportation exhibits. Visitors can also view exhibits about the life and times of Waite Phillips and the Boy Scouts.

  • Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway This scenic byway covers 188 miles and highlights the historic route of the Santa Fe Trail with historical markers, information centers, and breathtaking views.

Natural Attractions of Clayton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Clayton Lake State Park This park is known for its stunning sandstone cliffs, outdoor activities, and a large fishing lake with a rich fossil record. Visitors can also explore the nearby hiking trails and participate in various water sports.

  • Raton Pass Located north of Clayton, Raton Pass is a mountain pass that crosses the southernmost end of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can take the scenic drive and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Kiowa National Grasslands This sprawling grassland offers visitors the chance to trek through the area’s natural beauty and watch for local wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Clayton

Clayton is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise. With an array of trails and paths, visitors can enjoy the great outdoors and take in the local scenery. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Trails of Kiowa National Grasslands These trails range from easy to moderate difficulty levels and offer stunning views of the surrounding prairie grasses, cliffs, and rock formations.

  • Clayton Lake State Park Trail This trail is an easy hike and offers visitors great views of Clayton Lake and the surrounding sandstone cliffs, along with some dinosaur footprint fossils.

Best Things to Do in Clayton: Activities and Tours

  • Festivals and Events Clayton’s annual events such as the Luna Fest Art fair, Clayton Goldrush Days, and Clayton Cowboy Symposium offer visitors the opportunity to experience local culture, music, arts, and crafts.

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride In an area known for its stunning panoramic views, the best way to take it all in is by taking a hot air balloon ride over the landscape. Many operators offer this experience with custom packages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Clayton

Here is a Week-Long Itinerary for Clayton to make the most of your trip.

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Clayton and an afternoon visit to Clayton Lake State Park.
Day 2 Take a walking tour of Historical Buildings in Clayton, enjoy lunch at local restaurants, and visit the Clayton Historical Museum.
Day 3 Travel to nearby Cimarron and visit the Herzstein Memorial Museum and explore the town’s culture.
Day 4 Participate in outdoor activities and enjoy a picnic lunch at the Kiowa National Grasslands.
Day 5 Take a scenic drive through Raton Pass and explore the nearby towns.
Day 6 Attend local festivals and events.
Day 7 End your trip with a hot air balloon ride.

Food and Drink Scene of Clayton

Clayton may be a small town, but it boasts a variety of local restaurants offering authentic New Mexican cuisine and local specialties. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chile Cheeseburger A local favorite, this burger is loaded with melted cheese and spicy green chili and served with homemade fries.

  • Posole A savory Mexican stew traditionally made with pork, hominy, and chili peppers cooked in broth and served with tortillas.

Local Beverages

  • New Mexican Wines The region produces a variety of wines that are worth trying.

  • Sangrias A delicious blend of wine, brandy, and fresh fruits, perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring.

Where to Stay in Clayton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Clayton has several options for accommodations including hotels, motels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Eklund A historic hotel located in Clayton’s downtown area and offering a variety of room options.

  • Super 8 by Wyndham Clayton This motel offers clean and comfortable rooms with a complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Clayton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • New Mexican Handicrafts Local stores offer beautiful handcrafted souvenirs such as pottery, carved fetishes, and woven baskets.

  • Chile Powder Buy some authentic New Mexican chile powder to add some spice to your home cooking.

Local Culture and Customs of Clayton

Clayton is an agricultural community with a strong influence from Native American and Mexican cultures. Visitors should make an effort to learn about the local customs of the area, including proper etiquette and traditions celebrated by the locals.

Best Time to Visit Clayton

The best time to visit Clayton is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Clayton

Do:

  • Do dress appropriately as the weather fluctuates throughout the day.
  • Do explore the historical landmarks and natural wonders in and nearby Clayton.
  • Do participate in the local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the natural surroundings or local wildlife.
  • Don’t enter closed or restricted areas.
  • Don’t ignore the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Clayton

Clayton is a safe town and visitors should take standard precautions. Do be aware of the potential weather hazards in the area, such as tornadoes, and review safety guidelines before planning outdoor activities.

Health in Clayton

Visitors should ensure they have proper medical insurance as medical facilities in the area can be miles away. Be aware of high altitude and stay hydrated while in the area.

Getting to Clayton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can access Clayton through multiple routes, whether by land or air. Below are some options:

Airports Near Clayton

  • Amarillo International Airport Located 120 miles northeast of Clayton, the Amarillo airport offers domestic flights to major cities within the country.

  • Albuquerque International Sunport Located 180 miles south of Clayton, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, with connecting flights to Clayton.

Bus Stations Near Clayton

  • Greyhound Bus Locations: Both Amarillo and Albuquerque offer Greyhound bus stations and transportation to Clayton.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals Car rentals are available at both Amarillo and Albuquerque airports.

How to Get Around in Clayton

The majority of attractions can be reached by car, and rental cars are available at nearby airports. If driving is not an option, consider looking at local tour services to explore the area’s attractions.

Where to Go Next from Clayton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lamy A small town located 200 miles south of Clayton, Lamy offers both natural wonders and cultural attractions such as museums, galleries, and music venues.

  • Taos A town located 230 miles northwest of Clayton, Taos has many historic attractions and offers visitors world-class skiing and mountain biking opportunities.

Conclusion

Clayton is a hidden gem in northeastern New Mexico, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and culture. From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, delicious local cuisine to fascinating traditional culture, the town is perfect for travelers looking for a memorable and relaxing vacation. Explore the colorful history and stunning natural beauty of Clayton today!

Kiowa National Grassland Kiowa National Grassland Capulin Volcano National Monument Capulin Volcano National Monument