What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Alkali Flat Trail
Despite its name, the Alkali Flat Trail is anything but flat. As you traverse the unique loop trail in White Sands National Park, you'll climb up and down dunes throughout the entire journey. However, it's worth the effort — all who visit the trail experience stunning views of the one-of-a-kind area. If you choose to visit during summer, you'll want to bring plenty of extra drinking water and sun protection since there is no shade whatsoever.
Length: 4.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Osha Trail
The Osha Trail is a loop trail found in Lincoln National Forest near the town of Cloudcroft, NM. The trail is densely forested and pleasantly shaded, unlike much of the region. Along the route, which sees regular usage from hikers and trail runners, you'll come across pretty wildflowers, local wildlife, and excellent views of the region's sand dunes. The best time to visit the Osha Trail is between May and November.
Length: 2.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing & Boating
If you head east into the mountains near the town of Ruidoso, you'll find several lakes and creeks where you can cast your fishing line and do some boating as well. You can catch rainbow and brook trout at Bonito Creek, but it's asked that you practice catch-and-release fishing. At Grindstone Reservoir, both non-motorized boating and fishing are permitted, though boating is only allowed from April 1 to October 31. There are quite a few more small bodies of water to choose from. The Mescalero Reservation to the south offers its fair share as well.
Climbing
The area to the east of the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site features various places for climbing enthusiasts. You'll find several excellent destinations in the region offering bouldering and small crags. Some of the spots you may want to check out include Monjeau Peak, Capitan Gap, and the Alto Lake Boulders.
Wildlife Viewing
If you head south to White Sands National Park, you can observe some of the most unique wildlife in the world. Because of the harsh, arid environment of the region, only certain species have any hope of surviving there. During your visit, you might see fascinating amphibians, such as Great Plains toads, Mexican spadefoot toads, or Rio Grande leopard frogs. The park is inhabited by many reptiles as well, like desert box turtles, bleached earless lizards, and prairie rattlesnakes. While adventuring in the dunes, you might spot a few incredible mammals. Kit foxes, coyotes, bobcats, porcupines, and American badgers are all known inhabitants of the area.
Picnicking
If you plan to bring some tasty food with you to enjoy a picnic, you can do so at the designated picnic area found on-site at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. There's also a visitor shelter where you can eat while escaping the sun's harshness on a hot day.
Petroglyph Viewing
The Three Rivers Petroglyph site is primarily known for its massive collection of prehistoric art. The area features over 21,000 petroglyphs, including masks, wildlife, sunbursts, geometric designs, and handprints. You can view all of the fascinating rock art along a rugged half-mile trail that starts near the visitor shelter. If you head in the opposite direction, you can also explore the site's partially excavated prehistoric village.
