Explore the Mountains Surrounding Ruidoso
Lincoln National Forest
Just minutes from the heart of Ruidoso, Lincoln National Forest spans more than a million acres of pine-covered mountains, shared-use trails, and wide, open views. This expansive landscape supports a range of recreation—from hiking and horseback riding to mountain biking and scenic driving—making it one of the region’s most accessible outdoor destinations.
Whether you’re planning a short outing or a full day in the forest, Lincoln National Forest offers a variety of ways to explore at your own pace, with opportunities to slow down and explore at your own pace.
Lincoln National Forest: Quick Guide
• Location: Surrounding Ruidoso in the Sacramento Mountains of southern New Mexico
• Best for: Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, scenic drives, camping, wildlife viewing, and fresh mountain air
• Top access points: Grindstone Lake area, Ski Apache region, Bonito Lake, and nearby forest roads
• Best time to visit: Year-round, with each season offering something different
• Fees: Most areas are free; some campgrounds and recreation sites may require a small or seasonal fee
Things to Do in Lincoln National Forest
Multi-Use Trails for Every Pace
From lakeside loops to higher-elevation climbs, Lincoln National Forest offers a network of shared-use trails designed for a range of experiences. Many routes are open to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with trailheads located just outside Ruidoso—making it easy to access the forest without extensive planning.
• Easier routes: Grindstone Lake trails and gentle forest paths, ideal for walking, biking, or a relaxed ride
• Moderate routes: Cedar Creek area and shaded canyon trails with a bit more distance and elevation
• More challenging routes: Crest Trail and Lookout Mountain, offering longer routes and sweeping views
Whether you’re setting out on foot, on wheels, or on horseback, the forest offers a range of ways to move through the landscape at your own pace
Scenic Drives & Mountain Views
Not every experience here requires hiking boots. Scenic drives wind through the forest, offering overlooks, picnic pull-offs, and moments where the road itself becomes the destination.
Drive towards Ski Apache for high-elevation views, or explore forest roads that reveal unexpected clearings, ridgelines, and long stretches of stillness.
Camping Under the Pines
For those who want to stay a little longer, Lincoln National Forest offers a range of camping experiences—from developed campgrounds with amenities to more secluded, dispersed sites.
Wake to cooler mountain air, evenings under clear skies, and the quiet rhythm of the forest at night.
Wildlife & Quiet Encounters
This is one of the best places in the region to experience wildlife in its natural setting. Elk, deer, wild horses, and a wide variety of birds move through these mountains—often most visible in the early morning or just before dusk.
The experience is less about seeking out a specific sighting and more about staying aware of your surroundings, where wildlife often appears naturally along trails, open meadows, and quieter areas of the forest. Discover the best trails for wildlife in Lincoln National Forest.
A Forest for Every Season
Spring & Summer
Wildflowers begin to appear, trails open fully, and the forest becomes a refuge from warmer temperatures below. It’s an ideal time for hiking, picnicking, and exploring new areas.
Fall
The mountains shift color as aspens and oaks turn, creating one of the most beautiful times to visit. Crisp air and quieter trails make fall a favorite for many.
Winter
Winter snow brings a different kind of stillness. Nearby Ski Apache offers skiing and snowboarding, while lower trails and open areas are perfect for snow play and quiet winter walks.
Plan Your Visit
A little preparation helps you make the most of your time in the forest.
• Check conditions before you go, especially for weather and fire restrictions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln
• Bring water and layers, as temperatures can change with elevation
• Expect limited cell service in many areas
• Follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the landscape
Lincoln National Forest is vast, but access from Ruidoso makes it easy to experience—even if you only have a few hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. Much of the forest surrounds Ruidoso, with trailheads, scenic drives, and recreation areas located just minutes from town.
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Visitors come for hiking, camping, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, fishing, and seasonal activities like fall foliage and winter snow play.
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Most areas are free to access. Some developed campgrounds and recreation sites may require a fee or reservation.
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Lincoln National Forest is a year-round destination. Summer and fall are popular for hiking, while winter brings snow sports and quieter landscapes.
Start Your Forest Experience
In Ruidoso, the forest isn’t something you plan around—it’s something you move into, almost without noticing. A turn in the road, a shift in the air, and suddenly you’re surrounded by it.
Start where you are, follow what draws you in, and let the day unfold from there.
Explore
The Smokey Bear Ranger District in Ruidoso offers many different recreation opportunities for all seasons including picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, camping and more.