Walk the trails, bring the dogs, fish with the kids, and paddle in nature, Alto Lake Recreation Area in Ruidoso is a great place to pull your car up to the shore and spend the day.

A scenic crushed-rock trail circles Alto Lake (approximately 0.5 miles) with picnic tables and benches situated along the shoreline. Picnic tables and shelters are first-come-first-serve.

An additional 2-mile natural surface trail loops East beyond the Dam with benches and two separate bridge crossings which take you to beautiful waterfalls as well as possible wildlife sightings. Below the lake, Eagle Creek Trail offers an additional 1.5 miles of hiking.

Non-motorized bikes and dogs on leashes are permitted.

Parking and restrooms are available.

Cell phones should work on the trail. Dogs on leashes are allowed.

HOURS

The park is open seven days a week from 5 AM to 11 PM. Overnight parking is prohibited without a permit.

FISHING AND BOATING

The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and on occasion catfish and smallmouth bass. Anglers love this lake due to the fact that it is one of two public reservoirs in the area in which you can put a non-motorized boat. Due to it being one of few lakes in the region, the shoreline can get fished pretty heavily, especially around holiday weekends. 

If you’re coming with kids, the Alto Kids Pond helps kids enjoy the magic and joy of fishing! This pond is stocked with catfish and is only open to kids 11 and under. Rumor has it there are some pretty big catfish in there!

Non-motorized boating is allowed year-round. 

Boat Permits:
Day Pass= $5  | Annual Pass= $20 (calendar year)

Permits can be purchased online, at self-serve stations at the lakes, by calling Parks & Recreation at 575-257-5030, and at the Parks & Rec office located at 535 Resort Drive, Ruidoso, NM.

GENERAL RULES
No swimming is allowed.
No fees for parking, entrance, or picnicking.
Non-motorized bikes and dogs on leashes are allowed.
Fishing year-round, 5 AM to 11 PM. A state of New Mexico fishing license for those 12 years and older is required.