Lincoln National Forest
Located in South Central New Mexico, the Lincoln National Forest is known as the birthplace of the world-famous Smokey Bear, the living symbol of the campaign to prevent forest fires. The original bear is buried in Capitan, New Mexico.
The Lincoln consists of three ranger districts: Sacramento, Smokey Bear, and Guadalupe. The Forest includes three major mountain ranges: Sacramento, Guadalupe and Capitan in southeastern New Mexico.
Elevations of 4,000 to 11,500 feet pass through five different life zones from Chihuahuan desert to subalpine forest. Vegetation ranges from rare cacti in the lower elevations to Englemann spruce in the higher.
The Lincoln hosts two Wilderness Areas, Capitan Mountain and White Mountain, both on the Smokey Bear Ranger District. The Capitan has many large rock outcrops. Capitan Peak, Chimney Rock and Sunset Peak are all located in this area. Elevation ranges from 6,500 feet on the east side to 10,083 feet at Capitan Peak.
The Sitting Bull Falls recreation site displays one of the most beautiful views of natural caves available.
Pristine waters are found within the White Mountain Wilderness which flows below majestic Sierra Blanca Peak (12,003 ft.). The spring fed streams of the Southern Sacramento Mountains present quality waters and fishing experiences for the serious angler.
There are scenic vistas in all three districts on the Lincoln, each providing breathtaking views of the local scenery.
The Lincoln provides dispersed camping as well as access to many developed camping areas. The trails on the Lincoln vary from easy afternoon walks to severe difficulty trails for the serious hiking enthusiast. Trails are available for hiking, mountain biking, off-roading, and horseback riding.
From cross country skiing to downhill developed ski areas and resorts, the Lincoln provides skiing access many months of the year.
Ski Apache, a downhill ski resort, has a base elevation of 9,700 feet. Located primarily on Forest land, Ski Apache is operated by the Mescalero Apache Tribe. At Ski Cloudcroft, another downhill area, the elevations range from 8,500 to 9,500 feet.