A Guide to Ruidoso's Best Hiking Trails: Explore the Great Outdoors

Wondering where to hike in Ruidoso? Discover a trail that’s right for you.

Hiking in Ruidoso is a great way to explore the area while experiencing nature and wildlife. From scenic day hikes to multi-day wilderness adventures, there is something for every interest and skill level.

This trail list for Smokey Bear Ranger District shows trail difficulty and what you can do on each trail (i.e. hike, mountain bike, dirt bike, horseback ride, etc.) Bookmark for later.

 
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Exciting New Moon Mountain Trails Now Open
Exciting New Moon Mountain Trails Now Open

The 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.

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Cedar Creek Trails
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.

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2024 Best 10 Trails and Hikes in Ruidoso by AllTrails
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.

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Trail Running in Ruidoso
Trail Running in Ruidoso

Whether you’re an athlete training at altitude or a cardio fan out for a leisurely run, you’ll find a diverse and scenic selection of trails among the trees and alpine vistas in Ruidoso. Discover info on trail running in Ruidoso, including running routes and trails, gear, safety, and races.

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Discover Ruidoso’s newest access point to Grindstone Lake and Trails
Discover Ruidoso’s newest access point to Grindstone Lake and Trails

Ruidoso's Grindstone Lake Trail System now has even more opportunities for recreation. Hike and bike brand-new trails located in Ruidoso, off of Carrizo Canyon road at Mud Canyon Rd. Constructed by EcoServants, the connector trails provide free access to the existing Grindstone Lakes Trail System.

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Monjeau Lookout Tower
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.

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The Best Hiking Trails To See Wildlife In Ruidoso
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.

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Get outdoors with your pet in Ruidoso
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.

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Where to Hike in Ruidoso
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.

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RUIDOSO TRAILS: Where To Hike, Bike, and Horseback Ride in Ruidoso
RUIDOSO TRAILS: Where To Hike, Bike, and Horseback Ride in Ruidoso

Climb Sierra Blanca, hike through alpine meadows, alongside the Rio Ruidoso, explore a forest on horseback? You decide! Thanks to over a million acres of National Forest and wilderness areas, virtually every corner of Ruidoso is waiting to be discovered. Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails are plentiful.

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

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IN THE PRESS: Grindstone Trail System
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

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Featured
Celebrate Emerging Talent at the ENMU Student Art Show and Sale
Celebrate Emerging Talent at the ENMU Student Art Show and Sale

Explore the creativity of emerging artists at the ENMU Student Art Show from December 6–15, 2024, at 709 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso. Opening night is Friday, December 6, from 4:00–7:00 PM, featuring a variety of student artwork in diverse styles and mediums. Meet the artists and enjoy light refreshments. Free admission. Discover fresh talent and artistic inspiration in the heart of Ruidoso!

Featured
Experience the Thrill of the New Screaming Eagle Roller Coaster
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
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.
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.