Discover A Pristine Paradise When You Visit New Mexico's Lost Lake
Jennifer
Author
A unique blend of otherworldly southwest beauty and vibrant history, New Mexico’s dramatic landscapes are also home to a surprising number of scenic lakes, waterfalls, and bodies of water. From the powerful, iconic course of the Rio Grande to the scenic banks of the Jemez, there’s no shortage of idyllic spots to kick back and enjoy the abundant sunshine. After all, we’re called the Land of Enchantment for a reason! One of those reasons is New Mexico’s magnificent ability to keep surprising us over and over with its hidden gems and dazzling, under-the-radar scenery. For those who seek something a little more remote, special, and beautifully preserved, getting off the beaten path to discover the magic of New Mexico’s Lost Lake is an absolute must-do.
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As part of the Carson National Forest, Lost Lake is open for dispersed camping, but please follow all Leave-No-Trace principles and camp a respectful distance from the water to protect the environment (at least 300 feet). We want to keep this brilliant oasis pristine for decades to come! If you’ve ever visited Lost Lake or tackled the Lost Lake Trail in New Mexico, let us know your best tips to make this scenic adventure even better. (Hint: a GPS app comes in handy!)
Editor’s Note: Before planning your adventure, be sure to check current conditions for fire, seasonal, and maintenance closures. The forest service website is regularly updated with this information. Happy trails!
Looking for more epic things to do in New Mexico? Check out some of our must-do family hikes around the state. Or, for a no-hike adventure, check out these fantastic places to see along New Mexico’s Route 66.
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Lost Lake In New Mexico
What are some of the most unique places to hike in New Mexico?
New Mexico's diverse landscapes boast a treasure trove of unique hiking trails, each offering an immersive journey through stunning natural wonders, ancient history, and captivating vistas. While you would be hard-pressed to find a boring trail in New Mexico, from high desert plateaus to towering mountains and surreal rock formations, here are some of the state's most distinctive and iconic hiking experiences.
- Bandelier National Monument: Step into an ancient world at Bandelier National Monument, where trails weave through the remains of Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and petroglyph-adorned canyons. The Main Loop Trail leads to fascinating ruins carved into the soft volcanic tuff, providing glimpses into the daily lives of the ancestral inhabitants.
- Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument: Prepare to be awestruck at Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks! This otherworldly landscape showcases cone-shaped rock formations sculpted by volcanic eruptions over millions of years. The Cave Loop Trail winds through a slot canyon adorned with towering tent-like hoodoos, leading to breathtaking overlooks of the surrounding valleys and mountains. (Note that this monument is currently closed as of writing, but will be reopening soon.)
- Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and Trail: For a unique trek above the iconic Rio Grande Gorge, explore the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and Trail. This trail offers breathtaking vistas from the bridge, where hikers can soak in the awe-inspiring depth of the gorge. Adventurous souls can descend to the river, following the steep and rocky paths below for a more rugged exploration.
- Wheeler Peak: Ascending Wheeler Peak in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is a hiker's dream. As New Mexico's highest peak, this trail provides a challenging yet rewarding experience. Hikers wind through alpine forests, past sparkling streams, and above the treeline to reach the summit, rewarded with panoramic views stretching into neighboring states.
- White Sands National Park: In a surreal landscape unlike any other, White Sands National Park dazzles hikers with its shimmering gypsum dunes. The Alkali Flat Trail traverses a vast expanse of pristine white sands, offering an ethereal experience amidst towering dunes that shift and shimmer under the New Mexico sun.