Fallon, I agree that this is not a great trip to take to learn driving on ice/snow, mostly because of the grades. If you're dead set on going, then make sure you've got chains for both truck 'n trailer; even if trailer's not required, towing with them on is d@mn-sure safer! Also, depending on where you're coming from in S TX, I-10 W to I-25 up to ABQ, then W on I-40 to Thoreau and N on NM 371 to Farmington, then NM 516 to NM 550 to Durango might be a better option. A much more gradual climb, overall. Downside is about a hundred miles on 2/4 lane, but traffic is usually enough that, should there be snow, it'll likely get priority plowing.
Hopefully, a NM resident will chime in on this route.
Lyle
