Outdoor Science and Learning
Lincoln National Forest isn’t just a place for recreation—it’s also an outdoor classroom filled with opportunities for science, history, and hands-on learning. Whether you’re interested in ecology, archaeology, astronomy, or fire science, the forest provides a living laboratory where visitors of all ages can explore and discover.
Outdoor Learning Experiences by District
Sacramento Ranger District (Near Cloudcroft & Alamogordo)
- Sunspot Solar Observatory – A world-class observatory where visitors can learn about the sun and space weather through guided tours and exhibits.
- Trestle Recreation Area – Features the historic Mexican Canyon Trestle, offering insights into railroad history and forest conservation.
- Bluff Springs & Riparian Habitats – A great location for birdwatching and studying water ecosystems in the forest.
Smokey Bear Ranger District (Near Ruidoso & Capitan)
- Smokey Bear Historical Park – Learn about the real-life Smokey Bear, forest fire prevention, and the history of wildfire management.
- Cedar Creek Nature Trail – A short interpretive hike featuring educational signs on local plants, wildlife, and geology.
Guadalupe Ranger District (Near Carlsbad & Queen)
- Sitting Bull Falls – A natural oasis where visitors can learn about desert hydrology, limestone formations, and unique plant life.
- Guadalupe Ridge Trail & Permian Fossils – A scenic route through ancient marine fossils, providing a glimpse into New Mexico’s prehistoric past.
- Dog Canyon & Apache History – A historic site with ties to indigenous history and frontier life in the Southwest.
Know Before You Go
- Visitor Centers & Tours – Many locations offer guided tours, interpretive signs, and educational exhibits.
- Leave No Trace – Help preserve natural and historical sites by following responsible recreation practices.
- Citizen Science Opportunities – Participate in projects like bird counts, plant identification, and archaeology surveys.
Explore & Learn in Lincoln National Forest
Whether you’re stargazing at an observatory, studying ancient fossils, or learning about fire ecology, Lincoln National Forest offers endless opportunities for science and discovery in the great outdoors.
Search for Outdoor Science and Learning Opportunities
5 Points Vista
Site Open
Located in the far SW portion of the Guadalupe Ranger District, this viewing area (vista) offers spectacular views of the 'Rim' and the Guadalupe Mountains. The Rim is nearly a 1500' - 2000' cliff…
Alamo Lookout
Site Open
Alamo Lookout was an Aermotor LX-25 type 7’ X 7’ cab sitting on a 35 foot high tower. Like the Weed Lookout, the Alamo Lookout was erected in 1926 and had a wood framed Observer’s cabin of…
Bluewater Lookout
Site Closed
Located on the Sacramento Ranger District, the Bluewater Lookout may be the oldest lookout on the Lincoln National Forest. Forest Service records state that this lookout tower was built in 1917 for…
Carrissa Lookout
Site Open
The Carrisa Lookout complex contains the lookout, Observer’s cabin, shed and outhouse. This 7’ X 7’ Aermotor MC-39 cab sits upon an 80 foot high steel tower erected in 1934. Carrisa’s…
Dark Canyon Lookout Observation Site
Site Open
Dark Canyon, the only lookout located on the Guadalupe Ranger District, is an Aermotor MC-99 type 7’ X 7’ cab sitting on a 48 foot high steel tower. Erected in 1949, it is one of only two MC-99…
Haynes Canyon Vista Observation Site
Site Open
Located along the Sunspot Scenic By-way (NM6563) just about 1mile south of the beginning of the road, this Vista (view) offers stunning views of Hayne's Canyon below in High Rolls and beyond to the…
James Ridge Lookout
Site Open
Located on the Sacramento Ranger District, James Ridge Lookout (formerly Mayhill Lookout), is a 7’ X 7’ steel cab sitting on a 62 foot high steel tower. The cab style is designated as and…
Monjeau Lookout
Site Open
Monjeau Lookout is a famous landmark on the Smokey Bear Ranger District built originally in 1936 and then reconstructed in 1940 as part of a Civilian Conservation Corps project. This site is a…
Nelson Canyon Vista Interpretive Site
Site Open
The Nelson Canyon Vista and trail offers a quick little hike from NM6563 to a beautiful vista (view) of the Tularosa Basin below.
Ruidoso Lookout
Site Open
This lookout, a 30 foot high steel tower with a wooden cab 14 feet square, is an Aermotor MI-25 type. This type of lookout is unusual and rare in the Southwestern Region, with only one other…