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The Big Bonito Trail starting near Bonito Lake offers a hike with a spectrum of Autumn colors you won’t usually see outside of Northern states. You can do the full, nearly 10 mile loop, or you can make it an out-and-back hike (this hiker’s recommendation). Part of the Eastern side of the loop is still recovering from the Little Bear fire of 2012, but most of the Western side was untouched by the 2024 Blue 2 fire.
About a half mile in, you’ll come across a serene stream, the first of several water crossings. This is a popular destination for a lot of hikers, making for an easy hike, but only a small glimpse of the Autumn colors this hike offers.
About a mile into the trail, the yellows, oranges and reds begin to paint the scenery more and more.
Pictures simply can’t do this stunning scenery justice.
The Fall colors come in waves. You’ll hike through a patch of pines and round a bend, then in the distance – dancing in the wind – are the vibrant, yellow-orange leaves of an Aspen. As you approach, a small gust shakes loose some leaves, and they shimmer in the sun as they float past you.
It’s certainly a hike unlike any other here in Ruidoso.
As you can see in the distance of this last picture, the Blue 2 fire unfortunately did take out roughly half of the Aspen Grove that makes this hike so special. Someone had set up camp just past these trees (above) so I was unable to capture exactly how much was taken out by the fire.
This Aspen Grove is about 3.5 miles into the hike (Big Bonito Trail – 36); a truly magical destination. If you are planning to hike this trail yourself, this is also where I would recommend you stop, take in their beauty and turn around.
The fire and subsequent flooding made the next quarter mile of trail quite treacherous. Loose dirt and rock certainly increase the chance of injury. Not far past the burned area is a series of switchbacks that have severely eroded in some areas, also inviting injury. Come prepared if you are planning to do the full loop.
We invite you to stay with us at Innsbrook, a straight shot down Billy the Kid Trail from the entrance to Bonito Lake. And regardless of how you decide to enjoy this Autumn hike, stay safe, bring plenty of water, and leave no trace of your visit!
