IN EDGEWOOD, the mountains meet the plains, and time moves at a slower pace. Zigzagging trails and scenic byways wind through history and urge travelers to stay awhile.

“I love the peacefulness and the friendly people, our trails and walking paths, and our wide-open spaces,” says Diana Williams, who opened Church Street Market in 2016 with her husband, Clay.

Hit those trails and head deep into nature on foot, mountain bike, horseback, or a guided tour with a local outfitter.

Meet great horned owls, pronghorn, and other rescued native New Mexico animals at Wildlife West Nature Park. The 122-acre park and zoo also hosts family-friendly events like the Renaissance & Celtic Festival (March), Kite Festival (May), and family music festivals (July through September). The Pirate & Viking Bash (August) brings merriment, cosplay, and swashbuckling live entertainment.

The park’s historic Pinto Bean Museum, once part of a working bean farm, displays antique bean-processing tools and a history of pintos, which date back to 2000 BC.

For some serious shopping, head to Church Street Market’s 20 boutique-style shops. When hunger strikes, Edgewood’s restaurants serve up good food and friendly conversation. Chili Hills offers New Mexican fare, all-day breakfast, and a Friday all-you-can-eat fish dinner. Lantern Ridge Farm Market produces farm-fresh food in nearby Sandia Park.

“Everybody treats everybody else like family,” Williams says.

WAY FINDER

Catch four scenic byways in Edgewood.

Travel the Route 66 Scenic Byway through rural America’s past. Follow the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to historic mining towns. Visit the three Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument sites along the Salt Missions Trail Scenic Byway. The Sandia Crest Scenic Byway views stretch on forever.