When we were in northern NM a few years ago, we didn't make it as far north as Taos, but agree about the scenery. There isn't much about the southwestern US I don't like, geology-wise.
I agree on following scenic routes. The key to find even better views while flying is to find an interesting area along the scenic route and get away from the roads. The really cool places are where ground vehicles can't get but air vehicles can!