The White Mountain Wilderness near
Ruidoso, with elevations ranging from 6,500 feet
to 11,580 feet, offers plenty of hiking and
camping opportunities.
Hikers should be equipped
with proper gear and maps. For information, call the Smokey Bear Ranger Station in Ruidoso (505) 257-4095.
Some of the most popular trails:
Crest Trail
This 21-mile trail starts at Monjeau Lookout off the road to Ski Apache ski area and follows ridges all the way to Tanbark Canyon below Nogal Peak. Sections are well suited for day hikes and have panoramic views, especially the stretch from Monjeau to Ski Apache.
Scenic Trail
This short, half-mile trail climbs 300 feet from the Ski Apache parking lot to the Crest Trail, where hikers will be rewarded with stunning views and an option to continue their hike along the Crest Trail.
Southfork Trail
The six-mile trail is a tough 2,880 feet climb from Southfork Campground above Bonito Lake to the Crest Trail. A loop on Bluefront Trail leads 5.2 miles back to the campground.
Argentina Trail
This moderately difficult trail climbs 2.5 miles and 1,280 feet from the Argentina trailhead at the top of Forest Road 107 to the Crest Trail and Argentina Spring, where a short loop trail will bring you back to the Argentina Trail again.
Three Rivers Trail
This scenic trail follows a stream bed from the Three Rivers Campground on the west side of the White Mountain Wilderness for about three miles before it starts gaining some serious elevation. There is no loop, but the return trip along the same route is a pleasant downhill stroll. More serious hikers and backpackers can continue on into the wilderness.
Mountain biking trails
U.S. Forest Service volunteers recently completed mapping and rating about 15 favorite mountain biking trails in the Ruidoso area. Maps are available at the Smokey Bear Ranger Station in Ruidoso, (505) 257-4095. Cyclists note: Mountain bikes are not allowed in wilderness areas.
