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Welcome to the Carson National Forest!
The Great Outdoors Has Never Been Better
The finest mountain scenery in the Southwest is found in the 1.5 million acres of the Carson National Forest. Elevations rise from 6,000 feet to 13,161 feet at Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico. Our mission is to maintain that natural beauty and protect the wildlife that calls it home.
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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Caring for the Land
Learn about how we work to preserve endangered species like the Mexican Spotted Owl and the New Mexico Meadow Jumping Mouse, Forest Plans and NEPA Projects which reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires.
Recent News
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New Comment Period for Taos Ski Valley Draft Plan
Release Date: Mar 29, 2023
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Fire Crews Test Uncrewed Aerial System on Willow Piles
Release Date: Mar 21, 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.