Sawmill Trailhead and Connector Trail

Ruidoso's Grindstone Lake Trail System now* has even more opportunities for recreation. Hike and bike brand-new trails are located in Ruidoso, at Bewley Lane off Carrizo Canyon Road. Constructed by EcoServants, the 2-mile connector trail provides free access to the existing Grindstone Mesa trails, eventually ending at Grindstone Lake.

*Official Grand Opening ceremony date: May 6, 2022

The Grindstone Mesa has seen a significant increase in use since the Village of Ruidoso added amenities to the lake. With the new Sawmill Trailhead and Connector Trail, visitors and residents gain an alternate access point to the trails on Forest Service lands and relieve pressure on the Village of Ruidoso parking area at Grindstone Lake.

The Sawmill Trailhead and Connector Trail are located in the Smokey Bear Ranger District of Lincoln National Forest and are made possible thanks to Smokey Bear Stewardship Fund. Partners: the National Forest Foundation, Lincoln National Forest, the Village of Ruidoso, the EcoServants, the Public Lands Interpretive Association, and Midtown Mountain Campground & RV Park.