The Top 5 Hikes Ruidoso, NM

The best way to experience the Sierra Blanca Mountains is to explore its endless network of hiking trails. Nestled in the middle of these incredible mountains is Ruidoso, making this town the perfect base camp for anyone eager to immerse themselves in some of New Mexico’s most stunning natural landscapes. 


We’ve put together this list of our top five favorite hiking trails in Ruidoso to get your adventure off on the right foot. Remember to bring plenty of water, leave no trace, and above all – have fun. Happy trails! 


Eagle Creek Trail

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Distance: 2.2 miles
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash


The Eagle Creek Trail follows the banks of the river that leaves Alta Reservoir. It’s the perfect trail for families with young children or folks who want a relaxing morning hike to start their day. You’ll be treated to lovely views of the reservoir, where you’ll see fishermen reeling in their catches.


See the trail >


Cedar Creek Trail

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 3.6 miles
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash


Cedar Creek Trail is a great hike if you only have a few hours of time or if you’re looking for a more challenging warm up for a full day in the mountains. This out and back trail has an elevation gain of 935 feet and can be muddy in areas. We recommend sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles to help you safely navigate this trail as it flows through the forest. 


Prepare for your hike >


Carrizo Trail

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Distance: 5.6 miles
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash


Carrizo Trail is a 5.6 mile paved hiking and biking trail just outside of Ruidoso that is perfect for evening walks, family hikes, bike rides, or a slower-paced nature walk. The trail winds through beautiful forest scenery, and you’re likely to hear and see all kinds of native wildlife. We recommend this trail to everyone since it’s a great way to spend a little more time in nature while being close to town. 


Explore the trail >


Crest Trail

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 6.2 miles
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash


Considered one of the best hikes in the area, Crest Trail takes you around Nogal Peak. This long and decently challenging hike northwest of Ruidoso in the White Mountain Wilderness is an excellent day hike. The last 1.5 miles offer a steep challenge that you can overcome or turn away from.


Get ready for a good time >


Lookout Mountain Trail

  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Distance: 7 miles
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash


Lookout Mountain Trail offers an intense yet serenely beautiful hiking experience. With fields of wildflowers and beautiful mountain views around you, this hike shouldn’t be missed.  It’s no doubt the hardest trail nearby, and it occasionally can be hard to find the path to the peak, but we think the effort is well worth it.


Prepare for the challenge >

 

Book with A-Frame Cabins

A-Frame Cabins is located on five and a half acres of pine forest in Ruidoso, as close to the trailheads as we are to the shops and restaurants in town. With large and spacious rooms full of comfortable amenities, our cabins make the perfect base for your adventures into the Sierra Blanca Mountains. 


We offer both 2 and 3 bedroom cabins available, and we're ready to accommodate your entire family or group of friends. Our cabins come equipped with private decks and balconies, a fully furnished kitchen, wood burning fireplace, and barbeque grills. Book your stay with us today to start your next adventure in Ruidoso, New Mexico.

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