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The recent wildfires have left a lasting impact on Ruidoso’s beautiful landscape, affecting many of our beloved hiking trails. However, as nature resiliently rebounds, so does our community and the opportunities to explore it. This blog post provides a current update on the trails that are open for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors around Ruidoso, ensuring you can safely plan your adventures.
Open Trails Ready for Hikers
- Grindstone Lake Trails
- The trails around Grindstone Lake are open and offer a variety of scenic views and difficulty levels, suitable for hikers, mountain bikers, and runners alike. This area is a favorite for its accessibility and beautiful lake views.
- Upper Bonito and Surrounding Areas
- Most trails in the Upper Bonito area remain open. This includes the picturesque Argentina and Bonito Trailhead, which serve as gateways to extensive networks of paths that meander through diverse landscapes.
- Upper Portion of Crest Trail
- The upper portion of the Crest Trail is accessible. This segment offers hikers elevated views and the exhilarating challenge of high-altitude hiking.
- Nogal Canyon Trailhead
- Nogal Canyon Trailhead remains open, providing a rustic and less frequented path for those looking to escape the more popular routes and enjoy a serene hiking experience.
- 117 Open to Skyline Campgrounds
- Trail 117 is open up to the Skyline Campgrounds, offering a mix of moderate to challenging hikes that are ideal for day trips or extended hiking adventures.
Trail Closures to Note
Unfortunately, many of our local trails were taken by the fire. Here are the areas that are currently closed:
- 532/Ski Run Road off 127a: This trail remains closed, pending rehabilitation and safety checks.
- All of Cedar Creek: The entire Cedar Creek area is closed to the public. This popular network of trails will undergo necessary restoration to ensure future visitor safety and trail sustainability.
Safety Tips for Hiking Open Trails
As you venture onto the open trails, remember to hike responsibly:
- Stay Informed: Always check the latest trail conditions before heading out.
- Respect Barricades and Signage: For closed trails, respect all barricades and signage—they are there for your safety.
- Leave No Trace: Be mindful of the environment, stick to the trails, and pack out everything you bring in.
- Plan Accordingly: Ensure you have the right gear, plenty of water, and let someone know your plans.
Plenty Still to Enjoy
While the aftermath of the wildfires has undoubtedly changed the landscape of Ruidoso’s trails, the spirit of adventure and the beauty of our natural surroundings endure. By sticking to open trails and hiking responsibly, you can continue to enjoy the great outdoors and support the recovery of our beloved green spaces. We invite you to stay with us and discover some new trails in the Ruidoso area. Happy hiking, and stay safe on the trails!
