The locale draws tourists not just from within New Mexico, but also from nearby states, a notable number being Texans.
Located 75 miles away from Roswell, 120 miles from Las Cruces, and a 180-mile drive from Albuquerque, this village set against the backdrop of the Sierra Blanca Mountains offers a variety of attractions.
MAKING SOME “RACKET” IN RUIDOSO
Established in 1885, the village is named after the Rio Ruidoso river that meanders through it. “Ruidoso” translates to “noisy” in Spanish, a term early inhabitants used to characterize the river. Unlike much of New Mexico, the locale experiences a distinct four-season climate, complete with temperate summer conditions that attract a bevy of tourists.
The surrounding region encompasses the communities of Ruidoso Downs, known for its eponymous horse racing track, and Alto, celebrated for its scenic lakes, canyons, and recreational offerings. The elevation varies from approximately 6,900 feet within the village to over 12,000 feet at Ski Apache. Altogether, the population for this diverse area exceeds 20,000 residents.
Visitors relish the assortment of experiences and activities. When the snow blankets the ground, Ski Apache becomes a hub for winter sports. In the warmer months, the ski resort offers hiking trails and one of the world’s longest zip lines.
Numerous other outdoor activities beckon as well. The Lincoln National Forest offers top-notch hiking opportunities, where encounters with deer and elk are not uncommon. Grindstone and Alto lakes provide idyllic vistas suitable for hiking, biking, and fishing among other activities. ATV riding is also a popular pastime in the village.
For golf aficionados, Ruidoso doesn’t disappoint. Golf courses are practically a local fixture, with tee areas and putting greens dotting the landscape. Courses like Cree Meadows Golf Course and the Links at Sierra Blanca in Ruidoso, as well as Alto Lakes Country Club, Kokopelli Golf Course, and Rainmakers Golf Course in Alto offer splendid mountain vistas. Additionally, the Inn of the Mountain Gods situated on adjacent Apache tribal lands, provides a captivating golfing experience.
PAINTING THE TOWN RED
In addition to its reputation as a haven for outdoor activities, the area has much more to offer. Midtown is a hub featuring a diverse range of shops and dining spots, from microbreweries and soap boutiques to wineries, fashion retailers, adventure gear stores, and a myriad of T-shirt and souvenir shops.
Horse racing enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either, as Ruidoso Downs provides some of the state’s premier racing action. Every Labor Day, the track is home to the All American Futurity, dubbed “The world’s most lucrative quarter horse race,” attracting race aficionados from all over the U.S.
For those interested in casino action, adding Inn of the Mountain Gods to your schedule is a must. The venue offers more than just a full-scale casino; it boasts scenic mountain and lake vistas as well. When not trying your luck at slot machines or craps tables, you can rent a pedal boat for a lake excursion, take a scenic hike around the estate, or soar above the water on a zip line.
Posted by LasCruces.com
