Hiking
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Lincoln National Forest, where diverse trails wind through lush forests, rugged mountains, and sweeping desert vistas. Spanning three ranger districts-Sacramento, Smokey Bear, and Guadalupe- there's a hike for every adventurer, from leisurely nature walks to strenuous backcountry treks.
Trail Highlights by District
Sacramento Ranger District (Near Cloudcroft & Alamogordo)
- Trestle Recreation Area- A scenic walk with historic railroad trestles and canyon views.
- Rim Trail- A high-elevation trail with breathtaking overlooks and potential wildlife sightings.
- Osha Trail- A family-friendly loop with lush forest scenery and a great introduction to the area.
Smokey Bear Ranger District (Near Ruidoso & Capitan)
- Crest Trail (#25)- A challenging ridgetop trek with panoramic views of Sierra Blanca mountains.
- Grindstone Trail System- World class sustainable trail system. Parking lot is on Village of Ruidoso land at Grindstone Lake.
- South Fork Trail (#19)- A peaceful trail along a river, ideal for birdwatching.
Guadalupe Ranger District (Near Carlsbad & Queen)
- Last Chance Canyon Trail (#226)- A trail that follows the magnificent canyon bottom of Last Chance Canyon and is 6.2 miles long.
- The Sitting Bull Falls Trail (#68): A scenic hike with views of natural pools and the beautiful desert landscapes.
- The Overlook Trail (#215): Is a 1.9 mile long trail. It begins at the CCC trail (T214) and dead ends at an overlook of the Sitting Bull Falls area.
Know Before you Go
- Check Trail Conditions- Weather and Seasonal closures may impact accessibility.
- Be Prepared- Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear, and pack out all trash.
- Wildlife & Safety- Stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and be mindful of rapidly changing conditions.
Start Your Adventure
With over 1.1 million acres to explore, Lincoln National Forest offers hiking opportunities for every skill level. Whether you seek scenic overlooks, historic sites, or remote wilderness, your perfect rail awaits.
For trail maps and more, visit our Visitor Maps and Guides Page.
Search for Hiking Opportunities
Alamo Canyon Trail (T104)
Trail #104: The Alamo Canyon trail is 6.9 miles long. It begins 1 mile from south end of Scenic Drive and ends on private land off Forest Service Road 90. The trail is open for the following uses:…
Alamo Peak Trail (T109)
Trail #109: The Alamo Peak trail is 3.0 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 64D and ends at Forest Road 90. The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking,…
Anderson Canyon (T68E)
Site Open
Trail #68E: The Anderson Canyon trail is 1.3 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 68E and ends at the Forest Boundary to the east. The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding
Atkinson Field Trail (T111)
Trail #111: The Atkinson Field trail is 1.6 miles long. It begins at the Rim trail (T105) and ends at the Alamo Peak trail (T109). The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding,…
Black River Spring(T67)
Site Open
Trail #67: The Black River Spring trail is 2.0 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 69 near the McCullom Ranch and ends at Forest Road 201. The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback…
Caballero Canyon Trail (T103)
Trail #103: The Caballero Canyon trail is 4.3 miles long. It begins at the Alamo Canyon trail (T104) and ends at Forest Road 90. The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding,…
Camp Wilderness Ridge (T45)
Site Open
Trail #45: The Camp Wilderness Ridge trail is 1.8 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 3008 and continues into the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, although the Forest Service portion ends at the…
Cedar Creek Picnic Shelter
Site Temporarily Closed
The picnic area is open with a fee of $5. The Picnic shelter is closed due to damage from the South Fork Fire. Â
Dark Canyon Trail (T5700)
Trail #5700: The Dark Canyon trail is 5.5 miles long. It begins and ends at Forest Road 223. The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Motorcycle Trail…
Dog Canyon Trail (T106)
Trail #106: The National Recreation Dog Canyon Trail is 5.5 miles long. It begins at Oliver Lee State Park and ends at Forest Road 90B. This beautiful trail traverses up from the desert to elevations…