Autumn is one of Ruidoso’s most enjoyable seasons with crisp weather, changing colors, and not as many visitors. From the change of colors to the abundance of things to do, if you’re itching for some adventure, consider one of these fun (and often FREE) fall travel ideas.

Go for a bike ride or a hike

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Cedar Creek Trails

Cedar Creek Recreation Area is one of Ruidoso's easiest-to-access trail systems, conveniently located just off Mechem Drive (Hwy 48). With various multi-use (hike, bike, equestrian) trail lengths and difficulties starting in town, a picnic shelter, and three group campsites, Cedar Creek is a great place for the whole family and an outing in Lincoln National Forest.

2024 Best 10 Trails and Hikes in Ruidoso by AllTrails

Exploring the great outdoors in Ruidoso? AllTrails has compiled a list of the 10 best trails and routes in the region, just waiting for you to explore. Choose from an array of easy routes for day trips with the family, or check out some trails laden with historical sights. There are plenty of nature spots in and around Ruidoso to explore, with routes suitable for all skill levels.

Monjeau Lookout Tower

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Monjeau Lookout was originally built in 1936, then reconstructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1940. Its impressive stone structure managed to survive the 2012 Little Bear Fire, although the landscape is only now recovering. The drive is steep and adventurous, but camping is available nearby.

The Best Hiking Trails To See Wildlife In Ruidoso

AllTrails.com shares their list of the best trails for wildlife sightings near Ruidoso, according to user reviews and data. See the highlights here.

Where to Hike in Ruidoso

Looking for a place to hike in Ruidoso? AllTrails has 20 great hiking trails, trail running trails, forest trails and more, with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers, and nature lovers.

Year-Round Downhill Adventures at Ski Apache

Looking for an adventure playground that includes snow and mountain bike parks plus a zip line tour with the highest launch point in the world (11,000 feet above sea level)? Ski Apache, Ruidoso’s year-round mecca of action sports, has got you covered.

Biking in Ruidoso

From street to trail, if you love to pedal, Ruidoso has you covered. With new trail development and a vast network of empty rural roads and awesome mountain trails, cycling in Ruidoso has never been better. Discover the best places to get your bike on in Ruidoso.

Walk-Run-Ride The Links Trail

Beautiful Sierra Blanca dominates the views on this scenic walk, run, ride paved path that circles the Links at Sierra Blanca Golf Course in the heart of Ruidoso. The Links trail is 3-mile loop that provides outdoor exercise that dogs, kids and adults will enjoy.

IN THE PRESS: An Insider's Guide to Ruidoso's Best Hiking and Biking Trails

"A look at some of our favorite trails in what we consider one of the prettiest places in the country." — iExplore.com

IN THE PRESS: Grindstone Trail System

"The climb to Grindstone Mesa can be painful, but the payoff is anything but: Views of Sierra Blanca and surrounding mountains are spectacular." — AAA NEW MEXICO JOURNEY magazine

Stroll Midtown

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Where to Find Outdoor Adventure Gear in Ruidoso

Need to know the best places to stock up on outdoor gear for backcountry outings in Ruidoso? Whether you are planning a camping vacation or you’ve forgotten something important, here's where to find everything you need for an outdoor getaway.

Midtown Gallery Walk

Enjoy a day of gallery hopping in Ruidoso's Midtown shopping district with this recommended art itinerary.

Discover Unique Holiday Gifts in Ruidoso Shops

We’ve pulled together a list of some of Ruidoso’s favorite gift shops to help you find the perfect holiday gifts. Choose something special for yourself or someone you love. Discover friendly independent shops with unique jewelry, clothing, home decor, and skin care products, plus Southwestern turquoise, art, pottery, and New Mexico wine and spirits.

Don't Miss These Ruidoso Candy Shops

What's a Ruidoso vacation without ice cream and sweets? Satisfy your cravings at these Midtown candy shops for some delicious treats!

Noisy Water Winery: A popular Ruidoso Midtown experience

Home to their own brand of chile-infused New Mexico wines, and a wide selection of artisanal cheeses, and gourmet foods, Noisy Water Winery has a new location across the street in Midtown. With enhanced space for retail, VIP events, and tasting experiences, a visit to Noisy Water Winery is better than ever.

Wingfield Park

Wingfield Park, located near the Midtown shopping district, is the Village of Ruidoso’s designated area for outdoor special events. Bring the kids. Play a round of disc golf. Enjoy a picnic, attend a concert, shop the Saturday grower’s market, explore the botanical gardens, or host your wedding.

An Insider’s Guide to Midtown Ruidoso

Nestled in Ruidoso’s downtown, Midtown is the village hub for dining, arts, and shopping. Stroll through Midtown and enjoy a great selection of restaurants, boutiques, galleries, wineries, brewpubs, and live music.

Shop Small. Support Local. Shop Ruidoso.

Explore how you can shop small and make an impact on the community. After all, it’s the one-of-a-kind shops, galleries, and eateries that give Ruidoso’s cherished independent businesses their unique flavor.

Discover Ruidoso's Public Art Murals

Midtown is more colorful than ever. Grab a selfie in front of Ruidoso’s Instagrammable public murals brought to you by local artists and the Ruidoso Midtown Association.

Fresh, flavorful, tasty as heck. Island Noodles in Midtown.

Foodie-favorite Island Noodles opened in May 2021 in the Midtown A-Frame plaza to bring its addictively delicious noodle stirfry to Ruidoso. The fast-casual franchise offers Hawaiian-style soba noodles for takeaway with 12 vegetables. It can be ordered vegan or with teriyaki chicken.

Have an adventure

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Experience the Thrill of the New Screaming Eagle Roller Coaster

Ruidoso Winter Park is excited to offer the only Mountain Coaster in New Mexico, boasting 5100 feet of waves, dips, and a 360-degree helix. Drivers control the speed of their cart with max speeds of 25mph, plus Screaming Eagle Mountain Coaster boasts a state-of-the-art collision avoidance system to ensure each rider can enjoy their ride safely.

Disc Golf in Ruidoso

With courses at Grindstone Lake and Ski Apache, add disc golf to your list of fun things to do in Ruidoso. Better yet, bring your own disc and it’s free fun for the whole family.

Outdoor Adventure - It's what fall in Ruidoso is all about.

Whether you’re an avid adventurer or more focused on simply experiencing the good life, from forest hikes and high-alpine bike rides to post-adventure drinks and live music, a fall getaway in Ruidoso promises something for everyone.

Adventure Mountain Family Fun Center

Adventure Mountain Family Fun Center is Ruidoso’s newest place for year-round fun offering batting cages, glow-in-the-dar mini golf, bazooka ball, a ropes course, climbing wall, arcade games, laser maze, and kids rides.

Get outdoors with your pet in Ruidoso

Hike with your dog. Camp with your cat. Ruidoso loves pets and is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors with your furry family members. Learn the where, what, and how to responsibly enjoy the outdoors with your pets in Ruidoso.

Ruidoso Escape Rooms: A real-life escape game

Work together in a race against the clock to solve a series of increasingly challenging puzzles. Be prepared to have your wits tested and your entertainment level raised. Ruidoso Escape Rooms sets the bar for experiential entertainment.

Wind Rider ZipTour at Ski Apache

This adrenaline-pumping, three-span zip tour begins above 11,000 feet with parallel cables so riders can ride side-by-side. It also spans over 8,900 feet in length, making it one of the longest in the world while offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

Year-Round Downhill Adventures at Ski Apache

Looking for an adventure playground that includes snow and mountain bike parks plus a zip line tour with the highest launch point in the world (11,000 feet above sea level)? Ski Apache, Ruidoso’s year-round mecca of action sports, has got you covered.

Ruidoso for Adrenaline Junkies

Looking for thrills and spills on your Ruidoso adventure? Let loose on one of these action-packed activities.

Go off-road and explore with Backcountry Attitudes on an OHV adventure tour.

Ruidoso’s first off-road adventure specialist, Backcountry Attitudes, provides 4×4 off-roading adventures through scenic wilderness and mountain terrain for a unique backcountry adventure.

Check out the food and drink scene

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Apr 2, 2024

Ruidoso Food Truck Center

Apr 2, 2024

Experience Ruidoso's Food Truck Center on Mechem Drive for some of the tastiest bites in town. Dive into 440 Smokehouse BBQ, relish Toss'd Pizza, or savor Flash Jack's burgers and shakes, plus delicious coffee and more! Enjoy indoor seating, arcade games, and a fire pit for s'mores. Whether you're a foodie or seeking fun, there's something for everyone here.

Apr 2, 2024

Mar 5, 2024

El Camino Nuevo of Ruidoso Honored Among Top 7 Margarita Destinations in New Mexico

Mar 5, 2024

We're thrilled to announce that El Camino Nuev0, nestled in the heart of Ruidoso, has been recognized by Best Things New Mexico as one of the "7 Best Places for Margaritas in New Mexico"! Read more at besthingsnm.com >>

Mar 5, 2024

Feb 7, 2024

Delicious Dessert Spots in Ruidoso

Feb 7, 2024

Searching for a great place to grab dessert in Ruidoso? Look no further. Here are some of the top spots to get your fix of sweet treats.

Feb 7, 2024

Oct 18, 2023

Open Mic Night hosted by Tyler Jones at Downshift Brewing Company Hidden Tap

Oct 18, 2023

Every Thursday night, it's Open Mic with Tyler Jones at Downshift Brewing Company Hidden Tap from 7 to 10 pm. Listen to Ruidoso's finest or showcase your own music. Check out local and visiting artists each week as they play their own hits, covers, test out new music, and more. Spoken word artist or comedian, join the fun! Visit Event Website >>

Oct 18, 2023

Sep 21, 2023

A Taste of Fall: Apple Pies and Sweet Indulgences

Sep 21, 2023

Autumn in southern New Mexico brings ripe apples to regional orchards, and Ruidoso eateries shine with apple pies and sweet indulgences, some with a spicy twist. Try a slice of Hatch green chile apple pie or chipotle caramel apple for a taste of the Land of Enchantment. Explore our guide to Ruidoso's fall flavors for a memorable autumn experience.

Sep 21, 2023

May 17, 2023

Ruidoso Coffeehouses Not To Miss

May 17, 2023

While you're in Ruidoso, check out these indie coffeehouses offering outdoor patios, welcoming interiors with cozy chairs in quiet corners, ample outlets and free WiFi, delicious pastries, baked goods and light meals—perfect for an afternoon or morning pick-me-up.

May 17, 2023

May 11, 2023

A Foodie's Guide to the Best of Ruidoso

May 11, 2023

If you love to discover a place food-first, a great way to get started is with a visit to these Best of Ruidoso People's Choice Awards winners!

May 11, 2023

May 9, 2023

On Tap: Ruidoso Brewpubs & Wine Bars

May 9, 2023

Quench your thirst for New Mexico craft beers and wines at these local hangouts

May 9, 2023

Apr 11, 2023

Where to eat lunch in Ruidoso

Apr 11, 2023

Whether you're hungry for a green chile cheeseburger, a burrito smothered in house-made chile sauce, or a piece of buttermilk pie, there's a restaurant for you in Ruidoso.

Apr 11, 2023

Feb 22, 2023

10 Go-To Spots In Ruidoso For When You're Craving A Burger

Feb 22, 2023

Green-chile or old-school, craft or classic, you can never go wrong with a burger. Here are ten of the best Ruidoso burger hotspots for when you get a craving.

Feb 22, 2023

Find the perfect place to stay

Fun Things to Do During Your Ruidoso Fall Vacation

Go for a bike ride or a hike

Stroll Midtown

Have an adventure

Check out the food and drink scene

Find the perfect place to stay

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