Top 5 Walking Trails in Ruidoso by AllTrails
Discover AllTrails’s top-rated walking trails close to Ruidoso with custom-made trail maps, driving directions, insightful reviews, and pictures from hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts.
#1 Grindstone Lake Loop
Moderate
Try this 6.7-mile loop trail near Ruidoso, New Mexico. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 46 min to complete. This area is very popular for birding, fishing, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through November. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
#2: Grindstone Lake to Winchester Road
Easy
Experience this 1.9-mile out-and-back trail near Ruidoso, New Mexico. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 47 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, running, and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
#3: Eagle Creek Trail and Alto Reservoir Loop
Easy
Discover this 2.2-mile loop trail near Ruidoso, New Mexico. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 49 min to complete. This area is very popular for hiking, running, and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
#4: Lower Cedar Creek Loop
Easy
Get to know this 1.6-mile loop trail near Ruidoso, New Mexico. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 38 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through October. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
#5: Grindstone Mesa Loop
Moderate
Get to know this 7.4-mile loop trail near Ruidoso, New Mexico. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 18 min to complete. This area is very popular for birding, fishing, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.