Ruidoso is full of beautiful scenery, and with its open skies, scenic landscapes, pristine lake, and phenomenal trails, it totally makes sense that Alto Lake is one of the best places to explore while you're in town!
Photo from https://www.ruidosoparksandrec.com/alto-lake
Alto Lake is a beautiful, clear alpine reservoir. It is a popular destination for all sorts of recreation- hiking, biking, boating, and more! Better yet, its short, relatively simple, and absolutely gorgeous hiking trails make it the perfect place for family activities!
There are a few trails at Lake Alto. For families with young children or individuals seeking an easier walk, there is a great 0.5 mile crushed-rock trail. It goes along the shoreline, where there are plenty of benches and picnic tables where you can sit and read a book or enjoy a bite to eat. A second natural surface trail ambles 2.0 miles. Along this trail, you can find wonderful waterfalls, and you might even spot some cool wildlife! Possible sightings in the area include black bears, deer, elk, blue heron, osprey, and bald or golden eagles. A third trail- called Eagle Creek Trail- travels below the lake for 1.5 miles.
Photo from https://www.discoverruidoso.com/info/ruidoso-lakes
If you want to spend the day at the lake, then you can bring a fishing pole and cast a line! Alto Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, catfish, and/or smallmouth bass. It is one of two local public waters where individuals can use a non-motorized boat, so it is a hit with anglers! Keep in mind that it is one of the only lakes in the region, so it can get busy on holidays or weekends.
You can find information on boating permits, trail maps, and recreation rules on the Ruidoso Parks and Rec website.
Are you ready to hike Alto Lake? Plan your trip now!
