Carson National Forest in Taos, NM

Carson National Forest, Taos, New Mexico, is a place that has to be seen to be believed.
This section of the United States features some of the best mountain scenery to be found anywhere and Carson National Forest, covering 1.5 million acres, is at the heart of this regional beauty.

While many visitors simply relax and enjoy the scenery here, there are numerous recreational opportunities available throughout the year.  Whether it is skiing, hiking, fishing, camping or one of several other outdoor activities, Carson National Forest near Taos, New Mexico is an ideal place. 

With mountain peaks soaring to more than 13,000 feet, this is truly a wonderland.  While preserving the natural beauty of this site, the National Forest Service has renovated a number of recreation areas in order to accommodate the increasing number of visitors traveling to New Mexico.  Among the assets that Carson National Forest holds are habitat for native animals, wilderness for outdoor recreation and adventure, and high quality water for residents and wildlife alike.

Of the millions of acres in the national forest, more than 86,000 acres are designated as wilderness, set aside so that human beings can only be temporary visitors.  Travel is limited to horseback or foot travel and no snowmobiling or other vehicle travel is allowed. Outside of these areas, campgrounds have basic amenities.  Visitors are advised to be alert for animals such as elk, antelope, black bear, mountain lion and other big game animals.  Some of the mountain streams are stocked with native trout.  Winter recreation choices include some excellent downhill ski sites and cross country ski areas (on private lands).