Recreation

Trails webpages and information will not be available until May 2025. Thank you for your patience while we work through getting the most updated, accurate information for you during this time.

Check out the Lincoln National Forest Trails page to find more information about our trails, their status, difficulty rating, and length.

If you are interested in operating government owned facilities for the Lincoln National Forest, check out our pre-solicitation information here!

Recreation on the Lincoln National Forest

The Lincoln National Forest is a diverse and scenic destination in southern New Mexico, offering a wide range of recreational opportunities for visitors of all interests and experience levels. Spanning over 1.1 million acres, the forest is home to the Sacramento, Guadalupe, and Smokey Bear Ranger Districts, each featuring unique landscapes, from high-elevation pine forests and rugged canyons to rolling grasslands and desert foothills.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or connection to nature, the Lincoln National Forest has something for everyone. Popular activities include hiking, camping, OHV riding, hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. During the winter months, snow-covered trails provide opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding.

The forest is also rich in history and culture, with opportunities to explore historic sites, old mining towns, and even the birthplace of Smokey Bear, the iconic symbol of wildfire prevention.

With an extensive trail system, designated recreation areas, and breathtaking scenery, the Lincoln National Forest is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, check local conditions before their trip, and enjoy all that this incredible forest has to offer.

Call your local National Forest office to check on temperatures, conditions, the best place to go for your wishes, and much more.