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Posted in New Mexico Nature, State Parks December 28, 2017 by Catherine Armstrong

This Little Known Park In New Mexico Is A Hidden Gem And It Will Take Your Breath Away

We recently wrote about getting outdoors on Black Friday and into some of New Mexico’s greatest state parks. Our beautiful parks are perfect places for outdoor recreation, and for getting in touch with nature. Here’s a lesser-known park that has such spectacular scenery that it will take your breath away.

Sugarite Canyon State Park is located at 211 Highway 526 in Raton. The park is open 24 hours per day, year-round.

This small park covers just 3,600 acres, but they are beautiful acres indeed. You'll enjoy vast views, lush forests, meadows and two gorgeous lakes.

Basalt cliffs rise above this pretty valley on three sides.

Wildlife viewing is a popular activity here. Deer are abundant in the park, both large...

...and small. How adorable are these little fawns?

Keep an eye out - you might even see a bear.

The Visitors Center has several bird feeders that attract local feathered friends.

Sit quietly for a few minutes near these feeders, and you're certain to see hummingbirds, grosbeaks, towhees and more.

You'll find 13 miles of hiking trails to help you explore Sugarite Canyon.

In the early 1900s, this place was the site of a coal mine and the small town of Sugarite. You can still see some remnants of the buildings here.

Take the Coal Camp Interpretive Trail to see the ruins of the town. The loop trail is just under one mile long; you can extend your hike up to Mine #2 and Mine #3 to see even more.

The lakes provide boating and fishing opportunities. Explore with your kayak or canoe; or use the boat ramp at Lake Maloya to launch your motorized vessel. Both Lake Maloya and Lake Alice are stocked with trout.

Stay overnight in one of 40 developed sites at the Soda Pocket and Alice Lake Campgrounds. You'll find 10 electrical hook-up sites at Lake Alice.

If you prefer a more secluded, tree-lined spot, choose a tent site.

Once you see a sunset over Lake Maloya, you'll definitely want to book a campsite.

Have you visited Sugarite Canyon State Park recently? We’d love to see your pics and read your stories!

Catherine Armstrong

Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.