Lincoln National Forest
Lincoln National Forest covers high desert plains, sacred peaks, and pine-carved canyons in south-central New Mexico. Known for broad ridges, alpine lakes, and the historic resort town of Cloudcroft, it's a versatile playground for hiking, camping, and snowsports.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | American Southwest |
| Subregion | southwestern United States |
| Country | United States |
| State | New Mexico |
| County | Otero County |
| District | Lincoln National Forest |
| City | Mescalero |
| Postal Code | 88310 |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 33.9 |
| Longitude | -105.6 |
| Maps |
7:15 PM LOCAL TIMELincoln National Forest is a sculpted landscape of high plateaus, alpine lakes, and conifer-forested canyons in south-central New Mexico. Centered around the summit of Alamogordo Ridge and the cooler elevation of Cloudcroft, the forest offers a mix of year-round recreation: from winter snowsports on higher slopes to summer hikes across open ridges and through shady canyons. Trails like the Osha Trail descend into the Sacramento Canyon, while the Sunspot Scenic Byway provides dramatic drives through the Gila-Española divide. Visitors come for mountain camping, wildlife viewing, and historic sites, with key access points near Alamogordo, Otero County, and Carrizozo. The region's climate swings from dry desert to high-altitude rain and snow, so plan accordingly and respect local lands and waters.
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