Attractions and Activities Information

by Laura Doth

Ruidoso is an enchanting place in southern New Mexico where outlaws once roamed and Indians dance with the spirits of their ancestors. This is a place where breezes softly rustle majestic pines, and where trout leap from their watery homes. This is Ruidoso, New Mexico and it is home to all of these images and so much more.

Nestled in the mountains of the southern-most Rockies, Ruidoso is a bustling village opening its arms to thousands of visitors annually as they discover the area’s many treasures.

At an elevation of 7,000 feet, it was the cool mountain pines that originally brought visitors to this area; it was the wealth of things to do that made them stay. Outdoor recreation is part of the over-all appeal of “Billy the Kid” country. Much of the county is devoted to the one million acre Lincoln National Forest, and nature is the primary passion of the forest’s many visitors. For the avid angler, local streams and lakes are stocked at different times of the year with rainbow trout.

The rich mountain area is dotted with trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. All of them are easily negotiated. Several stables provide rental horses at hourly or daily rates and mountain bikes are available for rent. Big game hunting opportunities abound, with deer, elk, bear and turkey being the most sought-after game. Visitors can contact several local outfitters to schedule a hunt.

Many of the area’s terrific attractions are found along the Billy the Kid National Scenic Byway. This driving loop circles much of the county, allowing visitors the chance to see a wide range of local topography, attractions, historic and artistic venues.

When it comes to excitement of a different nature, Ruidoso Downs Race Track is the obvious place to go. Home to the world’s richest Quarter Horse race, the $1 million All American Futurity, the Downs features the best Quarter Horses in the world and the finest Thoroughbred racing in the southwest. Live racing begins in May and runs through Labor Day weekend. The track is also home to the Ruidoso Downs Race Horse Hall of Fame, a tribute to the people and horses who have made Ruidoso Downs Race Track the world's most renowned Quarter Horse track.