New Mexico's Five Spectacular National Forests: A Guide

New Mexico's Five Spectacular National Forests: A Guide

New Mexico's diverse landscapes are showcased in its five national forests, each offering unique terrain, ecosystems, and recreation. From high alpine peaks to desert canyons, here's your overview.

1. Cibola National Forest (Central NM)

• Size: 1.6 million acres
• Highlights: Sandia, Manzano, and Magdalena Mountains; diverse zones from desert grasslands to spruce-fir forests.
• Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, skiing (Sandia Peak), wildlife viewing.

2. Carson National Forest (Northern NM)

• Size: 1.5 million acres
• Highlights: Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Wheeler Peak (NM's highest at 13,167 ft), wild rivers.
• Activities: Backpacking, fishing, hunting, fall foliage drives.

3. Santa Fe National Forest (Northern NM)

• Size: 1.6 million acres
• Highlights: Jemez Mountains, Valles Caldera, Pecos Wilderness, historic sites.
• Activities: Hot springs, camping, cultural tours, rock climbing.

4. Gila National Forest (Southwestern NM)

• Size: 3.3 million acres (largest in NM)
• Highlights: Gila Wilderness (world's first designated wilderness), cliff dwellings, free-flowing Gila River.
• Activities: Wilderness backpacking, birding, hot springs, dark sky stargazing.

5. Lincoln National Forest (Southeastern NM)

• Size: 1.1 million acres
• Highlights: Sacramento, Capitan, and Guadalupe Mountains; Smokey Bear's birthplace.
• Activities: Skiing (Ski Apache), caving, hiking, scenic drives.

Shared Treasures

All five forests share iconic Southwestern wildlife (elk, black bear, mountain lion, turkey) and vegetation (ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, aspen). They are free to enter (some day-use fees apply) and offer year-round adventure.