Discover Ruidoso's Favorite Lakes
Bring a picnic, cast for fish, paddle a boat, cycle, horseback ride, or explore on foot via multi-use trails at Grindstone Lake and Alto Lake recreation areas, two cool, clear alpine reservoirs in Ruidoso that will keep you coming back.
Bonito, Alto and Grindstone lakes are regularly stocked with rainbow trout, and on occasion catfish and smallmouth bass and year-round fishing is permitted at both lakes with the proper licensing. Fishing Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Keep a camera handy for wildlife sightings as the lake areas are home to black bear, deer, elk, blue heron, osprey, and bald or golden eagles. A viewing platform at Grindstone Lake has been dedicated to viewing these wondrous birds and their acrobatic feeding routine.
Non-motorized boating is allowed year-round. A boat permit is required and is available for purchase online.
The Eagle Creek hiking trail at Alto Lake is an easy one-mile out and back that follows the creek and crosses it with bridges, the second of which is near a series of waterfalls that, come summer, make an idyllic swimming hole.
Mountain bikers, hikers, and horseback riders all utilize the miles of scenic, multi-use trails that circle Grindstone Lake. Please be courteous in interactions with fellow trail users.
GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS
Pets must be on a leash.
A New Mexico fishing license is required for those 12 years and older.
Shore Fishing Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 p.m.
Vessel Fishing Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Boat Permits:
Day Pass= $5 | Annual Pass= $20 (calendar year)
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT RUIDOSOPARKSANDREC.COM
PURCHASE BOAT PERMITS HERE
With courses at Grindstone Lake and Ski Apache, add disc golf to your list of fun things to do in Ruidoso. Better yet, bring your own disc and it’s free fun for the whole family.