Attractions and Places To See around High Rolls - Top 10
Best attractions and places to see around High Rolls are primarily found within the Sacramento Mountains, offering diverse natural landscapes. The region features trails that ascend into pine-scented forests, providing views of canyons and the Tularosa Basin. Visitors can explore unique geological formations and natural monuments, making it a destination for outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around High Rolls
- The most popular attractions is Osha Trail, a trail that climbs into the hills. After an initial…
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 …
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Cloudcroft - Hwy 82 Climb
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Chippewa Trail
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San Andres Canyon Trail
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Popular around High Rolls
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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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This trail mainly follows alongside a small creek before heading up some very steep sections into the forest. There are a couple of natural springs just off of the trail that are unmistakable due to the grayish-blue water which is caused by the limestone in the area.
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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 kind of natural features can I explore around High Rolls?
The High Rolls area is rich in natural beauty, primarily within the Sacramento Mountains. You can discover stunning viewpoints, such as those along the Osha Trail, which offers views of Bailey Canyon. The region also features unique geological formations like the exposed limestone boulders on the Chippewa Trail, where you might even find trilobite fossils. Don't miss Bridal Veil Falls (Lincoln National Forest), one of the few waterfalls in the area.
Are there family-friendly attractions in High Rolls?
Yes, Bridal Veil Falls (Lincoln National Forest) is noted as a family-friendly natural monument. It's accessible via an easy hike along the Grandview Trail, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.
What are some easy hiking trails near High Rolls?
For easy hikes, consider the Bridal Veil Falls Trail (T129), which is just over 1 km long. The Osha Trail Loop (4.1 km) and the Cloud-Climbing Trestle Trail (3.5 km) are also great options for a more relaxed outdoor experience. You can find more easy hikes in the Easy hikes around High Rolls guide.
Where can I find challenging trails for experienced hikers?
Experienced hikers can tackle the Cloudcroft - Hwy 82 Climb, a challenging ascent with over 4,300 feet of elevation gain and spectacular views. The Osha Trail and Chippewa Trail are also rated as intermediate, offering more demanding sections. For a longer, difficult option, the Rim Trail (T105) spans over 31 km.
Are there any trails with unique geological features or fossils?
Yes, the Chippewa Trail is particularly known for its exposed limestone boulders, where it's common to find trilobite fossils. Additionally, the San Andres Canyon Trail features natural springs with grayish-blue water due to the limestone in the area.
What are the best trails for scenic views around High Rolls?
The Osha Trail offers beautiful views of the Sacramento Mountains and Bailey Canyon after an initial climb. For expansive vistas, the Cloudcroft - Hwy 82 Climb provides spectacular views across the vast Tularosa Basin, potentially including White Sands National Park in the distance.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around High Rolls is ideal for hiking. You can explore various trails ranging from easy to difficult. Popular options include the Osha Trail, Chippewa Trail, and the path to Bridal Veil Falls. For more detailed hiking routes, refer to the Hiking around High Rolls guide.
Are there any trails that follow a creek or canyon?
The San Andres Canyon Trail primarily follows alongside a small creek before ascending into the forest. This trail also features natural springs with distinctive grayish-blue water.
What should I know about parking for trails in High Rolls?
For the Osha Trail, there are multiple parking areas with different trailheads. For the best views, it's recommended to start at the southern trailhead nearest to Cloudcroft.
What is the best time of year to visit High Rolls for outdoor activities?
While specific seasonal tips aren't provided for all attractions, trails like the Chippewa Trail can be quite exposed. During summer months, it's advisable to take caution due to the hot New Mexico sun. Generally, spring and fall offer milder temperatures for hiking and exploring the Sacramento Mountains.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around High Rolls?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes, from pine-scented forests to views of canyons and the Tularosa Basin. The opportunity to explore unique geological formations, like the fossil-rich Chippewa Trail, and the serene beauty of Bridal Veil Falls are frequently highlighted.
Are there any loop trails for hiking?
Yes, the Easy hikes around High Rolls guide mentions several loop options, including the Pines South and Pines North Loop (4.8 km), the Osha Trail Loop (4.1 km), and the Old Cloudcroft Highway Trail Loop (4.8 km).
Most popular routes around High Rolls
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