Alamogordo to Cloudcroft Scenic Drive

Parking is available at various trailheads along the scenic drive, which primarily follows US Highway 82. Specific parking areas will depend on the trail you choose to hike. For popular trails like the Cloud-Climbing Trestle Trail, designated parking lots are usually available near the trailhead. Always check local signage for parking regulations and availability.

Yes, many trails within the Lincoln National Forest, which encompasses this scenic drive, are dog-friendly. However, dogs must typically be kept on a leash. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them. Check specific trail regulations before heading out, as some areas might have restrictions.

The best time to hike depends on your preference. Cloudcroft, at higher elevations, offers a cool escape from the summer heat of Alamogordo, with temperatures often 15-20 degrees cooler. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures for hiking at various elevations. Winter hiking is possible, especially in Cloudcroft, but be prepared for snow and colder conditions.

Most hiking trails within the Lincoln National Forest do not require specific permits or entrance fees for day use. However, if you plan to camp or use certain developed recreation sites, fees may apply. Always check the official Lincoln National Forest website for the most current information on regulations and any required permits.

The drive offers a dramatic transition. You'll start in arid desert landscapes with unique plants and rock formations near Alamogordo. As you ascend, the scenery shifts to lush pine and fir forests in the Sacramento Mountains. Trails feature varied terrain, from rocky paths and towering cliffs to dirt paths and even some paved sections, like the beginning of the Cloud-Climbing Trestle Trail. Expect panoramic views of the Tularosa Basin.

A significant landmark is the Mexican Canyon Trestle (also known as the Cloud-Climbing Trestle), an impressive historic wooden railroad bridge. While walking on the trestle itself is prohibited, trails lead to its base and viewing platforms. Other points of interest include Tunnel Vista Falls and various scenic overlooks offering expansive views of the Tularosa Basin and surrounding mountains.

While the overall drive involves significant elevation gain, there are trails suitable for various fitness levels. The first half-mile of the Cloud-Climbing Trestle Trail is paved, making it accessible. Other trails in the Cloudcroft area offer easier walking paths, though some, like the Dog Canyon Trail, are moderately difficult with uneven terrain. Look for shorter, less steep options if hiking with beginners or children.

Yes, the route provides access to several other paths. For instance, the drive intersects sections of the Switchback Trail, the Old Cloudcroft Highway Trail, the Osha Trail (10), Pines Alt, and the Toboggan Canyon Trail (5003), offering opportunities to explore further into the Lincoln National Forest.

The scenic drive climbs approximately 5,000 feet in just 16 miles, resulting in a considerable temperature drop—often 15 to 20 degrees cooler in Cloudcroft than in Alamogordo. This rapid change means you should be prepared for varying weather conditions. What might be warm and sunny at the bottom could be cool and breezy, or even snowy, at the top. Dress in layers to adapt to the changing temperatures.

Hiking trails along the Alamogordo to Cloudcroft Scenic Drive range in difficulty. The Cloud-Climbing Trestle Trail is generally considered moderate, featuring steep stretches, switchbacks, and high step-ups. Other trails in the Cloudcroft area offer a mix of easy walking paths and more strenuous options. Trails like the Dog Canyon Trail are also moderately difficult with uneven terrain. Be sure to check the specific trail's difficulty before you go.