Day Trips

Cloudcroft is always a favorite.  The old train trestle is a sight to see.    There are also lots of trails to explore in the area, offering even more scenic views.  It’s at an even higher elevation than Ruidoso, so the temps are slightly cooler.   For those who like to shop, there are some small shops along Burro Avenue.  Noisy Water also has a tasting room along the strip, if you need a little refreshment after your exploration.

But the Traveling Hillbilly’s favorite stop is the Cloudcroft Brewing Company, for some delicious wood fired pizza!   It never disappoints. 

White Sands National Park is another place worth your time.    You wouldn’t think white sands dunes would be all that extraordinary, but it is a site to see.   The white sand dunes, with mountains as a backdrop make it a unique place to visit.   Just be sure to check and make sure they aren’t doing any missile testing before you go.   Otherwise you can face an hour plus delay to get to the park. 

Don't forget to stop at McGinn's PistachioLand for some delicious pistachio ice cream!  You can also get a picture of the world's largest pistachio. 

Oh the Wildlife

 

In addition to the beautiful scenery, there is lots of wildlife to see as well.  There’s deer and Elk roaming throughout the city.  It’s not unusual to experience a Ruidoso traffic jam, as cars patiently wait for deer or elk to cross the street.   Guess the grass is greener on the other side of the road.   If you’re truly lucky, you’ll get the chance to see the wild horses.  There are a couple of herds that live in the area that can often be spotted near the school and golf course.

No Rest for the Wicked

The Traveling Hillbilly wasn't back home from Colorado very long before it was time to hit the road again.  This time to Ruidoso, New Mexico.   Time to relax in the mountains, kick back and enjoy the views.  The cooler temperatures are a plus as well!  It was tough adjusting to the heat and humidity back home after the cool Colorado temps!

Ruidoso is a small mountain town with so much scenic beauty to offer.   There's nothing like having your morning cup of coffee, or evening glass a wine with a mountain view!  Or going for a morning stroll around the lake. Or when you’re feeling more energetic, a long hike in the Lincoln National Forest.

The grounds at Inn of the Mountain Gods are beautiful as well.  If you’re not staying there, it’s a great place to go have a drink or a meal and just enjoy the view.

Inn of the Mountain Gods

If it’s not ski season, you may want to consider a drive up to the top of Ski Apache for even more breathtaking views. 

Top of Ski Apache

There are a couple of lookout points along the way.  Just remember while it's only a few miles up the mountain, it will take about 45 minutes to get to the top.

Ruidoso is  a place the Traveling Hillbilly visits often and enjoys the ability to instantly feel relaxed upon arrival.  It’s a place that is always hard to leave.  The only thing that makes leaving bearable is the thought I’ll return again soon.