Attractions and Places To See around Cloudcroft - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Cloudcroft, a mountain village situated in the Sacramento Mountains at an elevation of 9,000 feet. The area offers a combination of outdoor activities, historical sites, and natural landscapes. It provides a cool climate and diverse attractions for visitors exploring the region.
Best attractions and places to see around Cloudcroft
- The most popular attractions is Osha Trail, a trail that is a 2.5 mile hike out of Cloudcroft up into the hills. Hikers are rewarded with views of the Sacramento mountains and Bailey Canyon.
- Another must-see spot is Bridal Veil Falls (Lincoln National Forest), a waterfall that is one of the only waterfalls in Lincoln National Forest. It is an easy hike along the Grandview Trail and a beautiful place to visit.
- Visitors also love Cloudcroft - Hwy 82 Climb, a challenging climb ascending from the Chihuahuan Desert floor into the Sacramento Mountains. It offers views across the Tularosa Basin, potentially including White Sands National Park.
- Cloudcroft is known for its hiking trails, historic sites, and natural features. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, from mountain climbs to waterfalls and forest trails.
- The attractions around Cloudcroft are appreciated by the komoot community, with 11 upvotes and 8 photos shared.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Osha Trail
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Bridal Veil Falls (Lincoln National Forest)
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The falls once had a lot more water coming over them, but since some redirection of water to local towns the flow has slowed over them. Regardless, they are still a beautiful place to visit.
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Cloudcroft - Hwy 82 Climb
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Chippewa Trail
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One of the most interesting parts of this trail is the amount of fossils you can find in the exposed limestone boulders. It is not uncommon to come across trilobite fossils.
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Dark Canyon Trail
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Popular around Cloudcroft
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Climbing Highway 82 towards Cloudcroft from Alamogordo takes you on a dramatic journey, ascending from the stark Chihuahuan Desert floor high into the cool, pine-scented Sacramento Mountains. Prepare for a very long and sustained ascent over approximately 16-18 miles, gaining over 4,300ft as you climb towards the high-altitude village of Cloudcroft, situated near 8,700ft. You'll have to deal with relentless gradients averaging around 5%, though some sections through the canyons and switchbacks will likely feel steeper, potentially pushing 7-8%. As you ride, enjoy the spectacular views opening up behind you across the vast Tularosa Basin, potentially spotting White Sands National Park in the distance.
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Bring water and enjoy. No littering please
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Dark Canyon is not as dark and scary as the name might make it out to be. On the contrary, the trail runs mainly through wide open meadows with amazing greenery. There are a couple of freshwater springs along the trail, so you should never be short of drinking water.
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Starting on Russian Canyon Road, just past the Lucas Canyon Trailhead, the Chippeway Trail snakes its way up steep pitches before plateauing on the ridgeline. The trail can be quite exposed at times, so during the summer months take caution in the hot New Mexico sun. One of the most interesting parts of this trail is the amount of fossils you can find in the exposed limestone boulders. It is not uncommon to come across trilobite fossils.
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Osha Trail is a 2.5 mile hike out of Cloudcroft up into the hills. After a relatively steep climb, the trail flattens out and hikers are rewarded with beautiful views of the Sacramento mountains and a spectacular view of Bailey Canyon to the south. There are multiple parking areas with different trailheads to reach the trail, although for the best views you should to start at the southern trailhead nearest to Cloudcroft.
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One of the only waterfalls in all of Lincoln National Forest, these falls are an easy hike along the Grandview Trail. The falls once had a lot more water coming over them, but since some redirection of water to local towns the flow has slowed over them. Regardless, they are still a beautiful place to visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular hiking trails in Cloudcroft?
Cloudcroft offers a variety of hiking experiences. A popular choice is the Osha Trail, a 2.5-mile hike that rewards with views of the Sacramento Mountains and Bailey Canyon. Other notable trails include the Chippewa Trail, known for its fossils, and the scenic Dark Canyon Trail, which winds through open meadows. For more options, you can explore the many trails within the vast Lincoln National Forest, such as the Rim Trail.
Are there any challenging outdoor activities for experienced adventurers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Cloudcroft - Hwy 82 Climb offers a dramatic ascent from the Chihuahuan Desert into the Sacramento Mountains, gaining over 4,300 feet with spectacular views of the Tularosa Basin. The Rim Trail within Lincoln National Forest also provides longer, more difficult sections for experienced hikers.
Where can I find scenic views or natural landmarks in Cloudcroft?
Cloudcroft is rich in scenic beauty. The Osha Trail provides beautiful views of the Sacramento Mountains and Bailey Canyon. The Mexican Canyon Trestle Recreation Area offers panoramic views of the Tularosa Basin. For breathtaking vistas, drive the Sunspot Scenic Byway or visit the Sunspot Solar Observatory, especially at sunset. Bluff Springs Recreational Area is also known for its scenic beauty and diverse flora.
Is there a waterfall I can visit near Cloudcroft?
Yes, you can visit Bridal Veil Falls (Lincoln National Forest). It's one of the few waterfalls in Lincoln National Forest and can be reached via an easy hike along the Grandview Trail. While the water flow has reduced over time, it remains a beautiful and peaceful spot.
What historical sites or cultural attractions can I explore in Cloudcroft?
Cloudcroft has a rich history. You can visit the iconic Mexican Canyon Trestle, a historic wooden bridge built in 1899. The Lodge at Cloudcroft, also built in 1899, is a renowned historic hotel. Explore Burro Avenue, the main street, for its historic charm, unique shops, and art galleries. The Sacramento Mountains Museum & Pioneer Village offers insights into the region's logging and railroad history with historical buildings.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Cloudcroft?
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the Sacramento Mountains Museum & Pioneer Village to learn about local history. In winter, Ski Cloudcroft offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, while the Cloudcroft Ice Rink provides natural ice skating. During warmer months, Ski Cloudcroft also offers summer tubing and hiking. Zenith Park is a great spot for a picnic, and the easy hike to Bridal Veil Falls is suitable for families.
What winter sports or activities are available in Cloudcroft?
Cloudcroft is a popular winter destination. Ski Cloudcroft, the southernmost ski resort in the U.S., offers 25 ski trails for all levels, snowboarding, and tubing. The Cloudcroft Ice Rink (James Sewell Ice Skating Rink) is the only natural ice-skating rink in the Southwest, providing a unique winter experience.
What other outdoor activities can I enjoy in the Cloudcroft area besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, Cloudcroft offers diverse outdoor activities. You can play golf at The Lodge Golf Course, one of North America's oldest. Fishing is popular at Silver Springs. The Lincoln National Forest provides extensive opportunities for camping, biking, and horseback riding. For a scenic drive, explore the Sunspot Scenic Byway.
What is the best time to visit Cloudcroft for outdoor activities?
Cloudcroft offers outdoor activities year-round. Summer provides a cool escape from the heat, ideal for hiking, biking, and exploring the Lincoln National Forest. Fall brings beautiful foliage. Winter is perfect for snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Spring offers milder weather for hiking as the snow melts.
Are there any unique local food or drink experiences in Cloudcroft?
Yes, Cloudcroft has some unique local flavors. You can visit the Old Apple Barn for house-made fudge, fruit pies, and various beverages. The Cloudcroft Brewing Company offers handcrafted beers and wood-fired pizzas. For wine enthusiasts, Noisy Water Winery provides tastings of local dry and sweet wines, including unique options like red-chile-infused chocolate wine.
What kind of trails are available for hiking around Cloudcroft?
The Cloudcroft area, particularly within the Lincoln National Forest, offers a range of hiking trails. You'll find easy loops like the Pines South and Pines North Loop, moderate options such as the Rim Trail: Trailhead 1 to Trailhead 4, and more difficult, longer routes like the full Rim Trail (T105). Many trails, including the Osha Trail, provide forest immersion and scenic viewpoints. For detailed information on various hiking routes, refer to the Hiking around Cloudcroft guide.
Most popular routes around Cloudcroft
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