This hairpin turn is on the primitive 1926-1932 alignment of Route 66 between Santa Fe and Albuquerque. The road, once filled with Model T's, trucks, and even early tour buses, can only be driven now by high-clearance 4WD. This is one of the better sections.

It's a very enjoyable early-morning hike. This lovely curve is lit by pre-dawn light. The image "Dawn on La Bajada" shows part of the same terrain six-minutes later.

More background on La Bajada ("The Descent") is at: www.drivetheost.com/nationaloldtrail.html.