Join the Sierra Club for a guided summer hike along the Eagle Creek Trail at Alto Lake Recreation Area in Ruidoso. This easy, scenic outing follows a leisurely 2-mile round-trip route through cool pine forest terrain surrounding Alto Lake, with opportunities to spot elk, wild horses, songbirds, ducks, and hawks along the way.
During the hike, participants will also learn about the area’s hydrology and local groundwater systems, including drinking water wells used by the Village of Ruidoso. Discussions will include water distribution, storage, EPA Safe Drinking Water Act requirements, water testing, and Consumer Confidence Reporting.
The hike features minimal elevation gain and is appropriate for most fitness levels. Registration is limited to 10 participants. No dogs permitted.
Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Alto Lake Recreation Area Parking Lot
Registration Deadline: Thursday, July 16, 2026
Directions: Between mile markers 8 and 9 on Highway 48 (Mechem Drive). Look for the Alto Lake entrance across from High Country Lodge and near “The View” restaurant construction site.
Trail Length: Approximately 2.1 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 25–50 feet
Difficulty Level: Easy
Trip Leader: John Pijawka
Phone: (575) 937-7422
Email: jastro@windstream.net
Register online at: