Discover Ruidoso's Favorite Lakes
Alert: Alto Lake Closed Indefinitely
Due to damages caused by the South Fork wildfire, Alto Lake is closed until further notice. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding as we work to ensure the safety and restoration of the area.
Grindstone Lake is open and operational and visitors are welcome to enjoy the area.
Bring a picnic, cast for fish, paddle a boat, cycle, horseback ride, or explore on foot via multi-use trails at Grindstone Lake and Alto Lake recreation areas, two cool, clear alpine reservoirs in Ruidoso that will keep you coming back.
Bonito, Alto and Grindstone lakes are regularly stocked with rainbow trout, and on occasion catfish and smallmouth bass and year-round fishing is permitted at both lakes with the proper licensing. Fishing Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Keep a camera handy for wildlife sightings as the lake areas are home to black bear, deer, elk, blue heron, osprey, and bald or golden eagles. A viewing platform at Grindstone Lake has been dedicated to viewing these wondrous birds and their acrobatic feeding routine.
Non-motorized boating is allowed year-round. A boat permit is required and is available for purchase online.
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 only open to kids 11 and under. Rumor has it, there are some pretty big catfish in there!
The Eagle Creek hiking trail at Alto Lake is an easy one-mile out and back that follows the creek and crosses it with bridges, the second of which is near a series of waterfalls that, come summer, make an idyllic swimming hole.
Mountain bikers, hikers, and horseback riders all utilize the miles of scenic, multi-use trails that circle Grindstone Lake. Please be courteous in interactions with fellow trail users.
SUMMER RESERVATIONS SYSTEM:
In an effort to preserve our natural resources and manage visitor capacity, the Village of Ruidoso will require a daily parking fee at Grindstone Lake beginning Saturday, May 25, 2024, through Monday, September 2ND, and holiday weekend advance parking reservations throughout the summer. The Grindstone Lake Daily Parking Fee is $10 per vehicle. No reservations are required Monday - Thursday.
Online reservations can be made HERE >>
There is no parking fee or reservations requirement at Alto Lake.
Season Passes are available:
Village of Ruidoso Locals- $10 per vehicle
Lincoln County Residents- $20 per vehicle
NM Residents- $30 per vehicle
Veterans & Active Duty- No Charge; No pass necessary
Make your parking reservation at: https://secure.rec1.com/NM/villiage-of-ruidoso-nm/catalog
GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS
Pets must be on a leash.
A state of New Mexico fishing license for those 12 years and older is required.
Shore Fishing Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 p.m.
Vessel Fishing Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Boat Permits:
Day Pass= $5 | Annual Pass= $20 (calendar year)