25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Cloudcroft (NM)

In search of the best and fun things to do in Cloudcroft, NM?

Cloudcroft is a village in Otero County, New Mexico. It is situated within the Lincoln National Forest.

The arid region sits on one of the highest elevations in the United States, almost 9,000 feet.

The small village is surrounded by tall trees, aspens, wildflowers, and many deers, elks, and wild horses. The mild temperature of the area is one of its unique features that attract tourists from different countries.

Cloudcroft, for decades, has maintained a tourism-friendly location and a laid-back atmosphere. Here are the top things to do in Cloudcroft, NM?

Things to Do in Cloudcroft

1. Explore Osha Trail

Are you new to hiking, and do you love the serene environment of nature? The Osha trail is just for you. Enjoy hiking in the beautiful historical Cloudcroft on the Osha trail. The Osha trail is an easy hiking trail named after the Osha plant, which grows along its path. The trail is famous for its 2.1-mile length, making it attractive and pleasant for hiking.

The Osha trail is a great hike start for all ages. While hiking, enjoy the stunning views of the Tularosa Basin, which has the White Sands National Monument. Embrace the enchanting vistas surrounding the trail.

The Osha trail is well mapped out with signs, nicely groomed, and clear paths for beginners. The track also has benches at various points on the course. At any point, you may feel the need to rest, locate one of these benches and relax for the fantastic hike ahead. The trail comprises a wide variety of green trees, shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers.

The lead trailhead is located west of Cloudcroft, the junction of the Us Highway 82 and Muchachita Street, down the road from the Mexican Canyon Trestle Vista. Parking spaces have been made available at this site as it is a non-motorized trail.

The Osha trail is perfect for a memorable family hiking experience.

Address: Osha Trail Rd, New Mexico 88317, USA

2. Ski Cloudcroft since 1963

Winter season is ski season, and ski time in Cloudcroft is fun. Experience fun skiing adventures with family and loved ones at ski Cloudcroft. The Ski Cloudcroft is the Southernmost ski area in New Mexico. The ski elevation is about 9,000 feet, with 25 fantastic ski trails to ski on.

The unique snow in Cloudcroft makes it a peculiar must-visit place for skiing. Provisions for people who do not have ski equipment are available, and ski Cloudcroft offers rental services for well-maintained professional ski and snowboard equipment.

For tourists who wish to learn skiing, the Cloud Nine Ski School in Cloudcroft offers a variety of classes on skiing and snowboarding. There are group lessons and private lessons.

Come ski, snowboard, and tube with friends, families, and loved ones at ski Cloudcroft.

Address: 1920 Hwy 82, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

3. Mexican Canyon Railroad Trestle

Experience a combination of nature and history when you look at the Mexican Canyon Trestle Vista.

The vista has a majestic view of the 1899 railroad trestle called the Mexican Canyon Trestle, which is one of the most incredible landmarks of the Southwest.

Relax and absorb the beauty of the scenic vista close to the mountains, the tall trees, and the clouds. The Mexican Canyon Trestle Vista was once referred to as the Cloud Climbing Trestle Trail because of its landmark feature at the end.

The trail is moderately challenging but beautiful. Be sure to climb through the Trestle Recreation Area in Cloudcroft.

Enjoy the breathtaking picturesque views of the White Sands dunes and distant San Andreas Mountains at the Mexico trestle area.

Also, look out for the sign that displays a photograph of the bridge once. The Mexican Canyon Trestle was built in 1889 with 323 feet and the height of a six-story building.

Address: US82, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

4. Sacramento Mountains Museum

Visiting the Sacramento Mountains museum is a great chance to experience living history in the mountains of Southwest New Mexico.

A tour of the Museum would be incomplete without visiting the pioneer village. At the Museum, artifacts, buildings, and exhibits tell the fascinating story and history of Cloudcroft and its people.

Take a stroll with your family, friends, and loved ones through the Pioneer Village and learn about the early farming and ranching industry, life living in a rugged log cabin, and families, persons, and events that shaped the history of Cloudcroft.

There is also a general store where you can browse through or purchase nostalgic handcrafted items made by Cloudcroft residents.

The Museum has so many buildings, in one of these buildings is a historical chapel. It is called the Sacramento Mountains Historical Society’s Chapel. The Chapel was built in 1899 as an office building by the El Paso and Northeastern Railroad. In 1967, the beautiful log building was purchased 1967 by the Episcopal Church. In 2004, the Chapel was donated to the Museum.

Feel free to book the Chapel for your small special getaway events with your loved ones in this beautiful historic Chapel.

The Museum is also known to host events like free lectures, art exhibitions, and its annual haunted village event.

Address: 1000 Highway 82, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

5. Silver Springs Fishing Pond

Silver Spring fishing pond is an excellent place to create that first-time fishing experience with your kids. The pond is surrounded by beautiful tall trees and areas for strolling or hiking, and at night, wildlife creatures are roaming in the woods.

The pond is clean with plenty of rainbow-spotted trout. Have a lovely family time with your kids or loved ones; learn to be patient while you wait for that catch. The silver springs is a good camping area that is family-friendly. They have every kind of campsite you need: primitive, cabin, and full R.V. hook-ups.

While fishing, the staff at the area are always willing to help out when need be. Fishing equipment is also made available from small to enormous sizes.

The fishing hole is also great for kids or people who are not experienced in fishing.

Address: 449 NM-244, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, U.S.

6. The Burro Street Exchange

Do you like shopping for fun and browsing through items at stores? If yes, the Burro Street Exchange is the right spot for you in Cloudcroft. The Burro Street exchange is in the Heart of Cloudcroft.

The Burro Street Exchange is a 15unit retail shopping center with a mix of retail shops, eateries, and professional offices reflecting the “Old West” ambiance of the Village of Cloudcroft, New Mexico.

Make sure you browse through the different shops at the Burro street exchange.

The old classic building has a restaurant, jewelry store, wine shop, clothing store, bakery, and even the office of the community local newspaper- the Mountain Monthly Newspaper.

Burro Street is one of the main tourist attractions in Cloudcroft, and it gives you the encompassing feel of Cloudcroft on the spot.

The Burro Street Exchange opens every day from 7:00 am-6:00 pm

Address: 505 Burro Avenue, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States

7. Rim trail

Do you love hiking with a different adventure? The Rim trail is the right path for you in Cloudcroft, and the Rim trail stretches farther and is 31.2 miles long, unlike the Osha trail.

The slide campground is non-motorized and open to only hikers, while the rest of the trail south is being motorized for motorcycles.

The trail is open for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and motorcycle trail riding.

While hiking, enjoy the beautiful views of Tularosa at various points. The Rim trail also has numerous access points along its route, offering smaller loop opportunities that make it easy to go on smaller day hikes with the family.

Among other hiking trails in Cloudcroft, the Rim Trail was the first U.S. Forest Service Trail in New Mexico to be designated as a National Recreation Trail; this makes it both adventurous and historical.

Address: NM-130, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

8. State Route 244

Experience a tremendous scenic highway mountain drive with your family, loved ones, and friends on state route 244. Riding through State route 244 is an incredible way to spend your day in Cloudcroft.

The tall green trees, curvy road, and beautiful wildlife make it an enjoyable road trip to take. While absorbing yourself in the beauty of the area, be sure to look out for wildlife animals like deers, elks, wild horses, and so many more. You might be able to see them long enough to take a snapshot of them.

Driving cautiously through this route as the roads are curvy and windy up and down. If driving at night, look out for deers, elk, and other animals having a night stroll on the highway

During summer, there are many wildflowers on the highway, and on a bright day, the White Sand National monument becomes visible to commuters and those who stop by the way.

The state route 244 is also called New Mexico 244

Address: 103-199 New Mexico 244, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

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9. Coco Blu

The Coco Blu is a women-centered Boutique in Cloudcroft with the hottest fashion trend. The store has a fantastic collection of affordable clothing, shoes, jewelry, handbags, beauty, accessories, and home accents.

Shop and browse through the unique collections of items at the store.

You can buy female accessories or wear to gift your daughters, wife, girlfriend, and your loved ones.

The Coco Blu store was established in May 2018 and was founded by Carolina Byers.

Alongside clothing and accessories, Coco blu also offers handcrafted fragrances, beauty implements, skincare, nail enamels, and make-up products.

As you visit the store, be sure to meet Carolina to style you for whatever look you want.

Address: 94 Little Glorieta Ave, Cloudcroft, NM 88317-1167

10. Off the beaten path

Explore the off-beaten path and shop for creative items to make your yard and home beautiful. Discover extraordinary handmade art.

The store is filled with creative inventory, collated with passionate artists that reflect their love for art through their works.

The shop is in an old Cloudcroft home built in the early 1930s. Yard art, wind chimes, and other whimsical outdoor decors at the Off Beaten Path.

Address: 100 Glorietta Ave, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

11. Noisy Water Winery

Another wonderful attraction in Cloudcroft perfect for wine connoisseurs is the Noisy water winery , which is worth adding to the list of things to do in Cloudcroft, NM.

The Noisy water winery is a definite stop in Cloudcroft. Hang out and have an exciting time with friends and your loved ones as you explore the various unique wines.

The wine shop is filled with an expansive variety of rich wines to select. Be sure to ask for the unique cheese served at the Noisy water winery when you go there with your friends.

Chit chat about the wines and learn about them from the winemakers.

Address: 505 Burro Ave, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, U.S.

12. Bluff Springs

Bluff Springs is a magical place to the campout. The beautiful waterfall and enchanting woods make it a must-be place to camp and hike with your friends and family.

It is an isolated place to spend that quality time with your loved ones, far away from the hustle & bustle of the town.

Take a break and relax while picnicking, camping, or hiking at Bluff Springs.

The water from the waterfall is clean and suitable for use. A short trail beyond the bridge connects to the top of the waterfall. Bring blankets and lots of cozy wear for the restful nights if you intend to camp in the area. The waterfall and flowing Rio are also very soothing at night.

Camping sites at Bluff Springs are well dispersed and adequately planned for the campers.

A visit to Bluff Springs is one of the best fun things to do in Cloudcroft, NM with the entire family. Breathe in the fresh and watch the stars twinkle at night with your loved ones.

13. The Trestle Recreation Area

Create memorable moments at the Trestle Recreational Area with your friends and family. The Trestle Recreation area is home to the Mexican Trestle Overlook trailhead, an essential and historical spot in Cloudcroft.

The Trestle recreation center is a day-use recreation area is full of hiking trails.

Take your friends along as you explore the adventurous hiking trails within the area. The hiking trails are well mapped, with signs and directions to follow while hiking.

The area has restroom facilities, interpretative information, access to trails, picnic sites but can only be used daily.

For some outdoor time, add a visit to the Trestle Recreation Area to your list of things to do in Cloudcroft, NM.

Address: Village of Cloudcroft, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

14. Cabins at Cloudcroft

Book a night with your family, friends, and loved ones at the clean and cozy cabins in Cloudcroft.

Have a feeling of what it is like to live in an old moderate Cabin when you spend a night in the cabin.

The cabin has the essentials to live comfortably. There is a fireplace, kitchenette and also hot water bath available.

There are different cabins for different needs; they range from one room to two rooms with a king-size bed. The parking area is directly in front of the cabin as there is plenty of space in the area; within the area are Burro Street and the magnificent hiking trails.

Do add this to your list of things to do in Cloudcroft NM for some fun time.

Address: 1006 Coyote Avenue Cloudcroft NM 88317 United States

15. Cloudcroft Ice Rink

Have fun and games in the only natural Ice rink in all Southwest. Take your friends, family, and loved ones on an unforgettable fun-filled skating experience at Cloudcroft Ice Rink.

The ice rink is an all-natural snow ice rink. The Ice rink is a great place to ice skate and has a family skating experience during the winter season.

The ice rink is located in the center of Highway 82, across from the Cloudcroft High School.

Provisions for renting skating equipment are also made available at the Ice Rink. Rent your skating shoes, tubes, sleds, and so many more.

There is also a place to unwind with kids and have some snacks to rejuvenate their energy for more fun. Have fun skating with kids while enjoying the music and cozy weather.

If you are looking for things to do in Cloudcroft, NM, with kids, add a visit to Cloudcroft Ice Rink to your checklist.

Address: 751 James Canyon Hwy, Cloudcroft, NM 88317 United States

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16. The Lodge Golf Course

Do you love to take a challenging golf course? Then the Lodge golf course is for you. The Lodge Golf course is an excellent golf course with a unique layout.

Golfing is a fantastic way to spend your day in Cloudcroft. Book a tee time session for the family at the golf course when you come to Cloudcroft.

Have an excellent tee time on the Lodge golf course while enjoying the cool breeze of the mountains. Each hole has a fantastic twist that poses a new challenge every time you target another shot.

At 9,000 feet above sea level, the terrain is challenging and beautiful to golf. The golf course is one of North America’s oldest golf courses.

For some tee time, add a visit to The Lodge Golf Course as it is one of the best fun things to do in Cloudcroft, NM.

Address: 601 Corona Pl, Cloudcroft, NM 88317-7703

17. Rustic Essentials of Cloudcroft

Are you a lover of skincare products? Do you like exploring beauty products for your skin? If yes, the Rustic Essentials store in Cloudcroft is where you should visit.

The Rustic Essential of Cloudcroft has a wide variety of skincare products with natural ingredients. The skin care products available are handcrafted artisan soaps, beard wash, beard oil, scrubs, body butter, and so many more. The store is packed with assorted skin products you cannot find everywhere, and they are specially made and carefully produced by the owners.

At the Rustic Essential store, there is a unique product for everyone. The owners, Tanna and Steven, are amazing people to meet and interact. They could also help you select a skincare product that is just what you need.

Address: 505 Burro Street Suite 111, Cloudcroft, NM 88317-7705

18. Turquoise Shop

Go on a shopping spree for unique accessories at the Turquoise shop. The Turquoise has a fantastic collection of individual pieces. Like the name turquoise, all accessories sold at the store are colored Turquoise.

This shop is a must-visit for lovers of blue and green accessories. The astonishing pieces sold there have a touch of the Cloudcroft ambiance and a modern feel. Feed your eyes with exquisite accessories ranging from earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and so many more.

The jewelry is made with silver and copper, carefully designed in an accessible style to portray the rich Native American culture.

While you browse through and shop for jewelry, get some beautiful pieces for your loved ones as well.

These accessories are all native handmade pieces for everyone, both male and female.

Address: 507 Burro Ave, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States

19. Cloudcroft Gallery

A tour is not complete without an art gallery. The beautiful locally made artworks and original paintings of Cloudcroft and art, in general, are a must-visit.

The Cloudcroft gallery is filled with unique soulful paintings, artifacts, sculptures, wood art, and many colorful artworks. The artwork speaks of the ambiance and beauty of the mountains, their people, and the history of Cloudcroft.

You can purchase the artwork as a gift for your loved ones or yourself to remember the beautiful moments spent in Cloudcroft. Make a selection from the variety, a small piece of Cloudcroft to go home with you.

If you are interested in art, add a visit to this attraction to your list of things to do in Cloudcroft, NM.

Address: 502 Burro Ave., Cloudcroft, NM 88317

20. Mountain Monster

Mountain monster is a little shop stacked with many gifts, decor, apparel, and more. It is a variety store that has foods and clothes for purchase.

Walk into the Mountain Monster while you are at Cloudcroft and check out their line of gourmet foods and truffles, or browse through their unique gifts.

Mountain Monster has the most spectacular and cool Cloudcroft t-shirts in the town. They design and screen print the T-shirts themselves and embroidery the T-shirts.

Still, custom furnishing items, custom t-shirts, vintage-inspired jewelry, and gourmet foods are in the Mountain monster little shops. We also offer customized bulk screen printing and embroidery.

Have fun shopping at the Monster Mountain right on the main shopping street in Cloudcroft.

Address: 505 Burro Avenue, Suite 103, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

21. Burro Street Trading Post

Shopping never gets boring when the items are exciting. Shop for unique and never-seen-before items at the Burro Street Trading post. The Burro Street Trading Post is a typical Native American store with jewelry, pottery, Kachinas, fetish rocks, gemstones, crystals, fossils, beads, crosses, Pendleton, and many home decor items.

Surf through the items and get unique gifts for your loved ones.

The Burro street trading post is one of the oldest shops in the Burro street exchange.

Address: 505 Burro Avenue, Suite 103, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

22. Nelson Canyon Vista Trail

Enjoy the scenic view of the Nelson Canyon Vista when you hike through the Nelson Canyon Trail. The trail is a short loop trail that gives you a breathtaking view of the Tularosa Basin.

Although the area does not show much of the White Sands as the earlier viewpoint, one can see the rest of the Basin from the trail.

While hiking on this short trail, look out for some interpretive signs put up by the Forest Service.

Address: Nelson Canyon trail Rd US82, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

23. New Mexico Rails-to-Trails

Have an exciting moment in Cloudcroft while walking from an old historical wooden rail line to the beautiful trail paths near the village of Cloudcroft. The New Mexico rails to trails have the Mexico canyon trestle, the rail, and tracks around the area.

While strolling through the zigzag trails, look for signs and directions and keep everyone on the same path.

Make sure to carry your mobile phone or camera so you can document this fantastic experience with family and friends.

The railroad was first set up for timbering and then tourism, which it is still used for today. Marvel at the trail on the old Cloud-Climbing Railroad bed as it goes through the lovely tall pines with scattered aspens throughout the area.

Nature lovers should add visiting this attraction to their list of things to do in Cloudcroft, NM. Take that wonderful short day hike on the Mexico Rails-to-Trails with family.

Address: Village of Cloudcroft, Cloudcroft, NM 88317

24. The Lodge Resort

The Lodge Resort is an enchanting place to check out in Cloudcroft, with its elegant setting and rural feel.

It was built after a fire destroyed the building during the spin of the century with the memories of its former citizens.

Many dreadful and incredible events are usually being reformed around its walls, making it difficult to forget. You can spend the night at this beautiful resort right on a 9,050 feet cliffside.

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Plan your Trip to Cloudcroft, New Mexico

Cloudcroft is an amazing village with lots of great activities. It is perfect for hiking in summer, and during winter, it is also a recommended destination for skating and snowboarding.

The numerous trail paths and forest vegetation make the area great for hiking on multiple trails.

The museums, pioneer village, and gallery tell of the rich culture of the Native Americans.

Get your visa to New Mexico ready as you plan your memorable trip to Cloudcroft village with your friends and family; to enjoy the magical town.