This Charming New Mexico Town Is Perfect For An Autumn Day Trip

When a destination is charming enough, even a day trip can feel like a mini-vacation. That’s certainly the case with Cloudcroft. This town of 674 people is in the Lincoln National Forest, 8600 feet above sea level. The scenery is beautiful year round, but especially in fall. Go see for yourself!

This small town has character to spare. The vibe is Old West meets mountain town.

Stroll between the quaint stores. Stock up on candles and soaps at Cricklewood and Company...

Address: 505 Burro Avenue # 104, Cloudcroft.

…Or browse through the eclectic selection of art at Off The Beaten Path, which showcases the work of many New Mexico creators.

Address: 100 Glorietta Avenue, Cloudcroft.

Hiking is one of Cloudcroft’s big draws. The area surrounding the town is simply stunning, especially in fall.

One of the more unique trails is the Cloud-climbing Trestle Trail. This 1.2-mile, easy to moderate hike, leads to a viewing station overlooking the Mexican Canyon Trestle.

The trailhead is at the junction of US-82 and NM-130 in Cloudcroft.

The bridge, which is 323 feet across, is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Alamogordo & Sacramento Mountain Railroad once ran through Cloudcroft and trains would cross this bridge. For more info.

The Rim Trail is another forest hike that rewards you with great views. It's popular with mountain bikers.

This path is 31 miles long and you can explore as much or as little of this ridge trail as you'd like. The trailhead is #105 and it's off NM-130.

Soak in the scenery along the Sunspot Scenic Byway, which connects Cloudcroft to Sunspot. This drive meanders for 17 miles along NM-6563 through the Sacramento Mountains.

It affords panoramic views of the Tularosa Basin and terminates at an observatory – visitors are welcome to wander around the observatory’s grounds.

Return to Cloudcroft and unwind at Noisy Waters Winery. Enjoy a tasting of green chile wine and peruse locally-made, gourmet food.

Address: 505 Burro Avenue, Cloudcroft.

For a casual yet delicious meal, dine at Mad Jack’s Mountaintop Barbecue. If you’re hungry after hiking, order the massive DINO ribs, or else sample the brisket.

Address: 105 James Canyon Highway, Cloudcroft.

Alternatively, Rebecca’s Restaurant at The Lodge offers a fine dining menu. The brunch here is also yummy. The restaurant is named after the ghost of a slain chambermaid who is said to haunt the hotel – her picture hangs in the restaurant.

Address: 601 Corona Place, Cloudcroft.

If you’d like to extend your visit beyond a day trip, history buffs and paranormal fans will enjoy a stay at The Lodge. For a more intimate retreat, rent one of the Cabins at Cloudcroft.

Have you been to Cloudcroft?

What New Mexico small town do you consider most charming?