Welcome to the Carson National Forest!
The Great Outdoors Has Never Been Better
Fall colors make the finest mountain scenery in the Southwest shine even brighter! Explore the 1.5 million acres of the Carson National Forest where elevations rise from 6,000 feet to 13,161 feet.
The Carson National Forest is the northernmost of five National Forests in New Mexico. These are America's great outdoors, here to serve the American people at work and play!
Plan An Unforgettable Experience
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Recreation
Skiing, views, prehistoric ruins, ice caves, lava flows, and some of the best biking trails in New Mexico.
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Be Prepared
Maps are available in all formats and for all devices. Plan ahead by mapping your adventure.
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Passes/Permits
Camping? Collecting fuelwood? Family Reunion? Filming a Hollywood blockbuster? Get the pass or permit you need! Know before heading out.
Discover More about the Carson National Forest
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Jobs in Wildland Fire
The next Fire Hire event will be August 31, 2023 to September 29, 2023. Learn more about fire and aviation management jobs, basic training requirements, and how to apply.
Recent News
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Dorado/Cañada del Agua Prescribed Fire Called Out
Release Date: Sep 19, 2023
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El Valle Fire 100% Contained
Release Date: Sep 18, 2023
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El Valle Fire Update, Sep. 15
Release Date: Sep 15, 2023
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Prescribed Fire Community Meeting in Canjilon, N.M.
Release Date: Sep 15, 2023
Features
Talpa Foothills Working Group

A third-party facilitator working for the Carson National Forest is bringing together a working group that will develop, refine, and evaluate maps of trail system proposals for the Talpa Foothills area to the east of Taos, NM. The Forest Service will consider these in the National Environmental Policy Act process, which includes more opportunities for public engagement.
Revised Land Management Plan

The Carson National Forest has completed revision of its new land management plan. The plan provides strategic direction to guide management of forest resources and a framework for decision making on site specific projects and activities.