Lincoln National Forest, tucked away in the center of New Mexico’s Land of Enchantment, provides a breathtaking getaway into the natural world. This forest invites explorers, history buffs, and lovers of the great outdoors to come and experience its wonders because of its varied landscapes, rich history, and limitless outdoor adventure opportunities. 

With the help of this guide, we’ll travel through the Lincoln National Forest, learning about its past, examining its distinctive qualities, and enjoying the wide range of activities it has to offer. Put on your hiking boots and get ready for an unparalleled outdoor experience with so many things to do in Ruidoso New Mexico.

After a long day of exploring, sit back and relax in one of our stunning Ruidoso cabin rentals! 

The History of Lincoln National Forest

The Proclamation of April 19, 1907, created the Guadalupe National Forest, and a few days later, on April 24, the Sacramento National Forest was created. The Sacramento and Guadalupe forests were combined to form the Alamo National Forest on July 2, 1908, one year later. 

Two proclamations in 1910 added more land to the forest, on the west side of the Guadalupes and along the western escarpment of the Sacramento. The Lincoln National Forest was created in 1917 after the Alamo National Forest was divided into it. The Lincoln National Forest now refers to the entire region. Lincoln’s history has also involved another area. Established in 1907, the Gallinas Forest Reserve was situated to the west of Corona. It was subsequently incorporated into the Lincoln National Forest and was not moved to the Cibola National Forest until 1958.

Named in honor of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, this forest has a remarkable legacy that spans over a century. The early years of the Lincoln National Forest were marked by preservation efforts and a recognition of its ecological significance. The commitment to safeguarding this natural gem led to the establishment of its boundaries and the implementation of sustainable land management practices.

Throughout its history, the forest has been shaped by the vision of conservationists who understood the value of this unique landscape. Their dedication to preserving the diverse ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and recreational opportunities within the forest has made it a prime example of responsible land stewardship.

About the Area

The Lincoln National Forest offers visitors an amazing fusion of natural wonders and varying elevations through its captivating and diverse landscape. It is separated into three distinct ranger districts, each having special qualities of its own: Guadalupe, Sacramento, and Smokey Bear.

The forest encompasses a vast area of 1,103,441 acres within its extensive boundaries, spanning parts of four counties in southeast New Mexico. Three significant mountain ranges—Sacramento, Guadalupe, and Capitan—define the topography of the forest. 

The varied elevations, which span five distinct life zones and create a variety of ecosystems from the sub-alpine forest to the Chihuahuan desert, range from 4,000 to 11,500 feet. The forest’s flora is highly varied, ranging from majestic Engelmann spruce in the higher altitudes to uncommon cacti in the lower altitudes. Discoverers, hikers, and lovers of the great outdoors are drawn to this mosaic of natural beauty created by these distinctive ecosystems.

The elevation changes in the Lincoln National Forest cause the temperatures to shift. At elevations of 7,000 feet and above, summertime lows of 40°F are experienced on cool evenings, with pleasant 78°F daytime temperatures. Winters can be particularly harsh, with lows of -15°F at night and highs of 40°F to 50°F during the day.

Winters at elevations between 6,000 and 7,000 feet are milder, with temperatures typically in the teens to the 50s and rarely dropping below freezing. The pleasant summertime temperatures range from 50°F to 85°F.  The lowest altitudes, between 4,000 and 6,000 feet, have year-round warmer temperatures, usually with readings roughly 10 degrees higher than those in the higher altitudes.

The windy season, which begins in the spring, can quickly dry out the forest and increase the risk of wildfires. Fire season typically commences in March or April and lasts through mid-July. When the fire hazard becomes too high, open fires may be prohibited, and the use of contained fuel stoves for cooking is required. 

July marks the start of the rainy season, which lasts until September and gives the forest vital moisture. It is common for the first snows to appear in late October or early November. You should take into consideration the various safety factors that are presented by the rapidly changing environment of the Lincoln National Forest. To guarantee a secure and delightful experience when discovering this exceptional natural asset, all individuals utilizing the forest must be alert and equipped.

Things to Do in the Lincoln National Forest

The Cedar Creek Trail System is a world-class network of trails that offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and dirt biking. Located near Ruidoso, it provides easy access from town. The Lower Cedar Creek Trail (1.5 miles) is a great option for quick trips, while the Upper Cedar Creek Trail offers a full loop covering 4.5 miles.

The Rim Trail, New Mexico’s first Forest Service trail designated as a National Recreation Trail, is a 31-mile trail that weaves together ancient Native American pathways, old railroad routes, homestead trails, and logging routes into a cohesive trail system. It offers breathtaking views of the Tularosa Basin below and caters to day hikers who wish to explore specific segments.

The White Mountain Wilderness near Ruidoso allows only horseback riding and hiking, excluding motorized or mechanized equipment. Two popular routes are the Argentina Trail and Bonito Trail, both starting from the same trailhead. The Historic Southfork Campground, which was closed for eight years due to wildfire damage, offers camping at a nominal fee of $10 and operates from May to October, weather permitting. It serves as a perfect gateway to trails leading into the White Mountain Wilderness.

Monjeau Lookout, built in 1940 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is one of the most exceptional fire lookouts in the southwestern United States. The rustic-style tower offers breathtaking panoramic views and is open year-round.

Picnic and hike at the Trestle Depot Recreation Area, located west of Cloudcroft, offers a delightful day of picnicking and hiking. The historic site used to serve as the drop-off point for passengers arriving in Cloudcroft from Alamogordo in the early 1900s.

Where to Stay 

With so many things to do near Ruidoso New Mexico, you would need a place to settle after having a fun-filled day. Look no further than Mountain Air Cabins for Ruidoso rental cabins that provide comfort and convenience while you explore the wonders of the Lincoln National Forest. 

Travelers looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience will find Mountain Air Cabins to be the perfect getaway, tucked away in the center of this alluring area. 

Our selection of Ruidoso NM cabin rentals suits a range of tastes, whether you’re looking for pet-friendly rentals in Ruidoso, cabins with hot tubs in Ruidoso, or a cozy base camp to see the local wildlife in Ruidoso. Our cabins suit the needs of every vacation style. When you stay at a cabin rental in Ruidoso NM, your journey through the Lincoln National Forest begins! 

For additional information about your lodging options, go to our website. Then, set out on an amazing adventure through the breathtaking Lincoln National Forest to experience the local Ruidoso wildlife in its ultimate glory!