21 Best & Fun Things To Do In Cloudcroft, NM

Are you a resident or tourist looking for fun activities in Cloudcroft, New Mexico?  Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll be taking you through the list of 21 best and fun things to do in Cloudcroft, NM, making your trip unforgettable.

Situated amidst the beautiful Sacramento Mountains, Cloudcroft, Otero County, New Mexico, is a captivating mountain village that beckons nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone yearning for a serene mountain escape.

Located within the Lincoln National Forest, this town allows for a mild summer and forested surroundings, making it a popular tourist attraction in southern New Mexico. This tourist destination offers a plethora of fun activities suitable for people of all ages.

Hike the Osha Trail, enjoy the best of the Sacramento Mountains Museum Area, fish at the Silver Springs Fishing Pond, and enjoy other unique attractions.

21 Best and Fun Things To Do In Cloudcroft, NM (2024)

1. Osha Trail

Cloudcroft, New Mexico, is a hiker’s paradise, offering a plethora of trails suitable for all skill levels. One of the most popular ones is the Osha Trail, which is a moderately challenging 2.5-mile loop just outside Cloudcroft.

Named after the Osha plant, which grows along its path, the Osha trail features beautiful views of the surrounding Sacramento Mountains and the Tularosa Basin, which has the White Sands National Monument.

The trail, which comprises a wide variety of green trees, shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers, is open to foot traffic and horses only. The tracks also have benches at various points on the course.

The Osha Trail is a wonderful hike, run, or nature walk offering impressive overlooks. Add this attraction to your list of outdoor activities to do in Cloudcroft, NM.

Address: Osha Trail Road, New Mexico, 88317, United States.

2. Ski Cloudcroft

One of the fun things to do in Cloudcroft, NM, in the winter is to experience adventure with family at Ski Cloudcroft.

Founded in 1963 with a T-bar lift, Ski Cloudcroft is the southernmost ski area in New Mexico, where families come to ski, snowboard, tube, and have fun.

The ski elevation is about 9,000 feet, with 25 amazing ski trails, including 8 beginner, 7 intermediate, 8 advanced, and 2 expert. The unique snow in Cloudcrot makes it an ideal place for winter activities.

This attraction also offers ski equipment for rent. Visitors who wish to learn skiing can enrol in the Cloud Nine Ski School in Cloudcroft, where a variety of classes on skiing and snowboarding are taught.

Address: 1920 1/2 U.S. Highway 82, US-82, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

3. Burro Street Exchange

Another fun thing to do in Cloudcroft, NM, today is to browse through items at  Burro Street Exchange.

Located in the heart of the mountain village, the Burro Street Exchange is a 15-unit retail shopping center with a mix of retail shops, eateries, and professional offices reflecting the “Old West” ambiance.

Spend time browsing through the shopping center. Explore the Burro Street Bakery, which offers freshly baked items like danishes, brownies, lemon bars, scones, and many more.

Address: 505 Burro Avenue, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

4. Sacramento Mountains Museum and Pioneer Village

One of the unique things to do in Cloudcroft is to step back in time at the Sacramento Mountain Museum and Pioneer Village.

This museum offers a fascinating story of the early settlers as they struggle against elements and against one another to tame the environs and claim a portion of it as their own. This living museum showcases exhaustive exhibits that celebrate the culture and heritage of Cloudcroft and its surroundings.

Visitors can explore historic buildings, artifacts, and photos and learn about the early farming and ranching industries and way of life in a rugged log cabin.

Address: 1000 US-82, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States

5. New Mexico Cloud-Climbing Trestle Trail

One of the free things to do in Cloudcroft, NM, for outdoor enthusiasts is to explore the New Mexico Cloud-Climbing Trestle Trail.

Also referred to as the Mexican Canyon Trestle Trail, this landmark features a moderately challenging but beautiful trail suitable for cycling and hiking. The trail, which is part of an 8-mile loop, includes another rail trail, the Switchback Trail.

Along with the Crossover Trail and Switchback Trail, it makes for a stunning out-and-back hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding experience in Otero County, New Mexico.

Address: Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

6. Zenith Park

Exploring Zenith Park is one of the family-friendly things to do in Cloudcroft, New Mexico. Situated in verdant greenery and tall woods, Zenith Park is a large recreation area that caters to people of all ages.

Established in 1899, Zenith Park features an ice rink, tennis courts, a frisbee golf course, clean bathrooms, a playground for kids, picnic tables, and a paved walking trail, which is perfect for hiking through the woods.

Spend time with your family at this park and enjoy the greenery while the kids have fun at the playground.

Address: James Canyon Hwy, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

7. Cloudcroft Archery

One of the best things to do in Cloudcroft, NM, for adults is to aim your target at Cloudcroft Archery. This archery was established to help people of all ages become involved in a healthy activity.

The Cloudcloft Archery provides equipment and supervision to all visitors who want to learn how to shoot a bow. With plenty of targets to choose from, Cloudcroft Archery caters to people of all skill levels.

The archery also features seven indoor shooting lanes for practice. You can rent different bows if you want to extend your range of playing techniques.

Address: 100 Little Glorieta Avenue, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States

8. The Lodge Golf Course

One of the best things to do in Cloudcroft, NM, this weekend is to visit the Lodge Golf Course for a round of tee time.

Established in 1899, the Lodge Golf Course has one of the highest course elevations in North America at 9,000 feet, making it challenging for golfers of all skill levels.

Opened in April through October, the 9-hole golf course offers 2,287 yards from the longest tee for a par of 34, making it challenging yet interesting and fun for players of all skill levels.

The Lodge Golf Course also boasts a golf shop where you can get all your golf equipment and an onsite restaurant and bar where you can satisfy your cravings.

Address: 601 Corona Place, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States

9. James Sewell Ice Rink

One of the best indoor activities to do in Cloudcroft, NM, in the winter is to have an unforgettable, fun-filled skating experience at James Sewell Ice Rink.

Located in historic Cloudcroft, the James Sewell Ice Rink is the only natural ice-skating rink in the southwest, making it a great place for ice skating during the winter season.

Visitors can rent skating equipment such as skating shoes, tubes, sleds, and many more. There is also a place where you can unwind with your family and have hot chocolate and snacks, along with great music.

Address: 751 James Canyon Hwy, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

Are you exploring other attractions near Cloudcroft? Why not check out some fun things to do in Las Cruces, NM, fun things to do in Roswell, NM, and fun things to do in Ruidoso, NM?

10. Rim Trail

Another free thing to do in Cloudcroft for outdoor enthusiasts is to experience a different adventure by hiking the Rim Trail.

Stretching for 31.2 miles, this trail winds through the fir and pine trees, aspen, and green meadows. The trail is a combination of old Native American paths, railroad grades, homestead trails, and logging routes linked together.

The trail offers an excellent opportunity for outdoor recreation such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, running, and motorcycle trail riding.

The trail also offers spectacular views of the Tularosa Basin at various points, over 4,000 feet below.

Address: NM-130, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

11. Toy Train Depot

Located in Alamogordo, NM, about 30 minutes from Cloudcroft, exploring the Toy Train  Depot is one of the fun things to do near Cloudcroft, NM, with kids.

This beautiful museum is dedicated to modeling trains and railroads using an actual depot.

The museum showcases RR operations with preserved, restored, and operating models of locomotives, freight cars, and passenger trains. Onsite is America’s Park Ride Train Museum, which functions as a narrow-gauge railway that provides visitors with a train ride at an affordable price.

This intricately detailed layout displays miniature landscapes and bustling train stations, offering a delightful journey through railroading history.

Address: 1991 N White Sands Blvd, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States

12. Cloudcroft Light Opera Company

One of the fun things to do in Cloudcroft, NM, at night is to catch a performance by the Cloudcroft Light Opera Company.

Established in 1991, this community theater regularly hosts live performances and musical events each summer in the open-air pavilion located in Zenith Park.

The Cloudcroft Light Opera Company also presents Santaland, celebrating the holidays with a bonfire, hot chocolate and cider, holiday music, games, and Santa.

For a dose of culture and entertainment, check the Cloudcroft Light Opera Company website for their schedule of events.

13. Trestle Recreation Area

Located at the west end of the Village of Cloudcroft, the Trestle Recreation Area is one of the best places to visit in Cloudcroft, New Mexico.

As the home of the Mexican Trestle Overlook trailhead, the Trestle Recreation Area is a historical spot in Cloudcroft. This recreation area features a shady picnic area for day use only and a beautiful overlook.

The Trestle Recreation Area also offers adventurous hiking trails within the area. The hiking trails are well-mapped with interpretive information, making it easy for visitors to navigate.

Address: Village of Cloudcroft, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

14. Bluff Springs Waterfall

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, then add a visit to the Bluff Springs Waterfall to your list of things to do in Cloudcroft, New Mexico.

The Bluff Springs Waterfall, which is a partially developed picnic area, offers dispersed camping next to the waterfalls for tents and camper trailers. This spring-fed waterfall sits atop a hundred-foot plateau and cascades down the valley.

This recreation area is an ideal spot for RVs, families, and campers during the summer. The spring, which is surrounded by a network of trails, also offers a great hiking opportunity.

Address: Cloudcroft, NM, United States.

15. White Sands National Park

A short drive from Cloudcroft, explore White Sands National Park, one of the world’s great natural wonders.

Sprawling over 145,762 acres, this beautiful natural wonder boasts the world’s largest gypsum dune field, with a depth of about 30 feet and dunes as tall as 60 feet. The park offers various activities like dune sledding, guided moonlight walks, photography workshops, Lake Lucero Tours, Mothapalooza, and various community events.

On your visit, you can hike the dunes in full moonlight, one of the most popular activities at White Sand National Park. The interplay of shadows, light, and pure white sands makes it a unique sight.

Address: New Mexico, United States

16. Cloudcroft Brewing Company

Having a taste of local beer at the Cloudcroft Brewing Company is one of the unique things to do in Cloudcroft.

This local brewing company offers a wide variety of delicious craft beers, primarily Irish Red and Stout. With its large outdoor venue and year-round live music, the Cloudcroft Brewing Company serves as the perfect spot for guests of all ages.

Address: 1301 Burro Avenue, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States

17. New Mexico Museum of Space History

Looking for fun things to do near Cloudcroft? Take a short drive to the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Located in Alamogordo, this premier tourist attraction seeks to educate visitors about history, science, and space technology.

The museum offers dedicated artifacts and displays related to space flight and the Space Age. It also included the International Space Hall of Fame and highlighted the role of New Mexico in the U.S. space program.

The museum’s outdoor exhibit includes a large Sonic Wind I rocket sled ridden by Stapp and the Little Joe II rocket, the biggest rocket ever launched from New Mexico. It also features the Clyde W. Tombaugh IMAX Theatre, the Planetarium, the Astronaut Memorial Garden, and the Hubbard Space Science Research Building.

Address: 3198 State Route 2001, Alamogordo, NM 88310, United States

18. Noisy Water Winery

One of the most exciting things to do in Cloudcroft, NM, for wine enthusiasts is to visit the Noisy Water Winery for a round of wine tasting.

Established in 2009, Noisy Water Winery offers two tasting rooms and an impressive collection of fine wine. Their tasting room in Cloudcroft offers a delightful range of wines, from bold reds to crisp whites.

Visitors to the beautiful winery can try all their cheeses and wines with some of Noisy Waters’ balsamic vinegar and olive oils, which are also available for tasting.

Address: 505 Burro Avenue, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

19. Cloudcroft Farmers Market

Exploring the Cloudcroft Farmers Market is one of the unique things to do in Cloudcroft, NM, this weekend. Held every Sunday in the Skating Rink from July to mid-October, the Cloudcroft Farmers Market is the best place to get fresh produce.

The market offers an excellent opportunity to sample fresh produce, meats, eggs, local honey, pasture-raised meats, vinegars, artisanal crafts, homemade soaps, and delectable local cuisine while mingling with friendly vendors and fellow visitors.

Address: 751 James Canyon Hwy, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States

20. Sunspot Solar Observatory

Just a 30-minute drive from Cloudcroft, a visit to the Sunspot Solar Observatory is one of the unique things to do near Cloudcroft, NM.

Established in 1947, the Sunspot Solar Observatory is home to many important scientific discoveries, unique solar observing facilities, and breathtaking views of the Sacramento Mountains.

Beyond the solar telescope, the Sunspot Solar Observatory, part of the Lincoln National Forest, also features a diverse collection of native plants and wildlife, including mule deer and over 200 species of birds.

The facility also has a Visitor Center, which provides an interactive astronomical experience through activities, displays, and informational exhibits. The Visitor Center showcases exhibits from the Dunn Solar Telescope, the Apache Point Observatory, and the Lincoln National Forest.

Guided tours of the site and the telescope are available only on Saturday and Sunday. However, self-guided tours are available at other times.

Address: 3001 Visitor Center Road Drive, Sunspot, NM 88349

21. Michael Nivison Public Library

One of the best things to do in Cloudcroft today is to visit the Michael Nivison Public Library, a community hub that serves residents of Cloudcroft and visitors alike.

The Michael Nivison Public Library has an extensive collection of newspapers, magazines, CDs, DVDs, a large print collection, and books in Spanish and German.

The library also offers an extensive digital collection that includes eBooks, eAudiobooks, research databases, digital magazines, TV show and film streaming, animated books, children’s space, and a computer lab.

Address: 90 Swallow Place, Cloudcroft, NM 88317, United States.

Plan Your Trip to Cloudcroft

Cloudcroft, New Mexico, is a treasure trove of diverse experiences, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural richness, and historical significance.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Cloudcroft enthusiast, there’s always something new to explore and enjoy in this enchanting mountain village.