XTERRA Ruidoso Race Weekend Itinerary
Fuel your adventurous side with a trail-running weekend that blends adrenaline, recovery, and a taste of mountain charm.
Whether you’re running the trails, snapping content, or cheering from the sidelines, XTERRA Ruidoso is your ticket to fresh air, forested trails, and the kind of small-town spirit that sticks with you long after the finish line. Here’s how to make the most of your race weekend.
Friday: Arrive + Explore Midtown
Afternoon
Check into your hotel, cabin, or vacation rental near Midtown and breathe in that fresh mountain air. Stroll Sudderth Drive to stretch your legs and discover Ruidoso’s lively heart. Drop into Nomad Mountain Outfitters for stylish trail-ready gear and mountain lifestyle finds, then head to the WPS Patio for a drink on the patio—or test your aim at their on-site axe-throwing lanes.
Dinner
Head to Grill Caliente for New Mexican flavors and a patio perfect for sunset. Or, keep it light and fresh with sushi, ramen, and small plates at Ruidoso Sushi, a casual Japanese restaurant.
Evening
Catch live music at Downshift Brewing Company or Wingfield Park during the Under a Mountain Sky concert series. Don’t stay up too late—tomorrow’s a big day.
📸 Photo Tip: Snap the Sudderth murals or golden-hour light over Grindstone Lake.
Saturday: Race Day + Recovery
Early Morning
Rise and shine! Head to Grindstone Lake early to warm up, take in the sunrise over the water, and join fellow racers for XTERRA Ruidoso’s signature trail challenge.
Race Time
Whether you’re running the 5K, 10K, or 21K course—or documenting the action—soak up the energy, natural beauty, and unforgettable finish-line vibes.
Lunch
Refuel with a burger at Anaheim Jacks or a hearty brunch at Tina’s Café, where locals swear by the huevos rancheros and friendly vibe. Both offer casual, post-race comfort food with local flair.
Afternoon
Recovery options abound:
Book a spa session or massage at Blue Lotus Day Spa & Yoga
Take a light stroll at the Links Trail
Wind down with a wine tasting at Noisy Water Winery, or sample a small-batch bourbon flight at WPS.
Dinner
Enjoy a celebratory meal at The Ranchers (think steaks and craft cocktails) or a laid-back pizza night at Café Rio.
📸 Photo Tip: Capture a medal selfie, your recovery meal, or those hard-earned dusty trail shoes.
Sunday: Scenic Sendoff
Morning
Ease into the day with breakfast at The Village Buttery—the pies alone are worth the early alarm. Then head up to Monjeau Lookout for panoramic views and a quiet moment of reflection.
Midday
If you’re not rushing out, try:
A glass-fusing class at New Mexico Art Glass Center
A visit to Woodswan in Glencoe for artisan-made heirloom furniture from locally sourced timber
A short volunteer shift at Humane Society of Lincoln County (dogs love post-race walks too)
Afternoon
One last latte at Zocca Coffee and you’re on your way—legs sore, heart full, and content queue loaded.
📸 Photo Tip: Monjeau at midday or that final coffee cup on a mountain porch.
Insider Tips
Weather can shift quickly—pack layers, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle.
For post-race relaxation, book spa or yoga appointments in advance.
Want to extend your stay? Explore nearby Fort Stanton and Lincoln Historic Sites or the adrenaline-pumping, three-part Ski Apache Zip Tour, one of the longest ZipTours in the world.