Ruidoso is one of the Southwest’s best places to experience wildlife up close. See elk, deer, bears, bald eagles, hummingbirds, and the area’s free-roaming horses amid mountain forests and meadows. Enjoy year-round viewing and responsible encounters in Ruidoso’s scenic outdoor spaces.
Read MoreLooking for the best place to see the stars in 2026? Escape city lights and experience the breathtaking dark skies of Ruidoso. From constellations and the Milky Way to dazzling meteor showers, this mountain getaway offers unforgettable stargazing. Plan your trip around the top 2026 meteor shower dates for the ultimate night-sky adventure.
Read MoreDiscover Ruidoso's vibrant autumn with our fall foliage guide. Explore top spots like Alto Lake, Grindstone Lake, Lincoln National Forest, and Ski Run Road. Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and more amidst stunning fall colors. Visit during peak season from mid-September to late October, and don't miss local events like AspenFest and Oktoberfest.
Read MoreLooking for the best hiking and biking trails in Ruidoso? The Grindstone Lake Trails System offers 18 miles of year-round adventure just minutes from Midtown. Explore lakeside loops, mesa climbs, and scenic ridge views—perfect for families, trail runners, and mountain bikers. Home to XTERRA events, Grindstone combines stunning landscapes with trails for every skill level.
Read MoreDue to recent flooding, the Cedar Creek area on the Smokey Bear Ranger District is temporarily closed through Sept. 30, 2025. The closure includes trailheads, recreation sites, and several popular trails. The Forest Service is working with local officials on safety and recovery. Full details: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln/alerts
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2025 Season Update: Wibit Water Park Will Remain Closed This Summer
The Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake will not open for the 2025 season. While we know this is a favorite summer activity for many, current conditions have made setup and operation unfeasible this year. We appreciate your understanding and encourage visitors to explore the lake’s other outdoor recreation options, including swimming, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and more.
Read MoreDiscover the best golf courses in Ruidoso, NM. From mountain views to high-elevation play, enjoy scenic golf year-round at top-rated public and resort courses in the Sierra Blanca region.
Read MoreExploring 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.
Read MoreThe Links Fitness Trail in Ruidoso is a scenic, 3-mile paved loop great for families, walkers, runners, and cyclists. Set around the Links at Sierra Blanca Golf Course, it features gentle climbs, mountain views, and a safe, dog-friendly path. With restrooms, parking, and a water fountain, it’s an easy outdoor activity for all ages to enjoy together.
Read MoreAs of May 7, 2025, Lincoln National Forest has implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions due to increased fire danger across the region. These precautions are vital during Ruidoso’s warmer, drier months—and we ask all visitors to travel responsibly and help protect this beautiful landscape.
Read MoreEscape to the mountains of Ruidoso for fresh air, star-filled skies, stunning views, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. This scenic alpine village offers the perfect year-round getaway for slow travel, relaxation, and outdoor adventure. Discover five powerful reasons to make Ruidoso your next soul-soothing vacation destination.
Camping with kids in Ruidoso can create lifelong memories without the stress. Start small by choosing a nearby campsite and keeping meals simple. Bring comfort items from home to make the tent cozy, and let kids take on small tasks to build excitement. Embrace flexibility, keep it fun, and focus on making memories rather than perfection for a rewarding family adventure.
Read MoreEscape to Ruidoso's winter serenity in the Sierra Blanca mountains. Relax with peaceful strolls on snow-covered trails, breathe in crisp air, and enjoy a magical horse-drawn sleigh ride. Rejuvenate with spa treatments that soothe the spirit, and cozy up by the fire as night falls. Surrounded by stunning scenery and local charm, Ruidoso is the ideal mountain retreat for a tranquil winter getaway.
Read MoreBonito Lake, located just north of Ruidoso, reopened for fishing after a decade of restoration following fire and flood damage. Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing in the scenic Sacramento Mountains. Only fishing is allowed for now to protect ongoing restoration efforts. Visit soon to experience the renewed beauty of Bonito Lake!
Read MoreThe Village of Ruidoso Parks and Recreation Department announces opening five new miles of trails on Moon Mountain. These trails are designed for moderate difficulty and are perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrian riders. Enjoy stunning vistas and local wildlife, such as turkeys, deer, and elk. Access is off Gavilan Canyon Road by Warrior Drive. Remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring snacks, and respect the environment.
Read MoreNestled within the majestic Sierra Blanca range, Ruidoso bursts into a riot of colors as spring and summer roll around, turning its trails and meadows into vibrant canvases of wildflowers. Eager to immerse yourself in this floral extravaganza? Let this guide be your ticket to the best wildflower sightseeing adventures in Ruidoso.
Read MoreDiscover AllTrails’s top-rated walking trails close to Ruidoso with custom-made trail maps, driving directions, insightful reviews, and pictures from hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts.
Read MoreCedar 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.
Read MoreThe Lincoln National Forest (LNF) is increasing camping fees at four developed campgrounds, decreasing extra vehicle fees at two campgrounds, and increasing a daily shelter reservation fee for the Cedar Creek Group picnic area. The forest is also adding a standard amenity recreation fee to three day-use areas and increasing fees for the Sam Tobias Memorial Group Campground.
Read MoreWhen the moon covers most of the sun, leaving a mesmerizing "ring of fire" around the edges on October 14, 2023, for an annular solar eclipse, Ruidoso is in the direct path of this cosmic phenomenon. Here's how skywatchers can make the most of this extraordinary celestial event.
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![Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake (Seasonal, Summer only). [CLOSED SUMMER 2025]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58c9c6e69f74567f6f50dfba/1560894861732-LRS1OBYWXAGX8H8DA5JY/DSC_7847.jpg)
