Lincoln National Forest
Lincoln National Forest is a moderate 80+ miles off-road trail near Ruidoso, NM, best run April - November. The gear list marks All-terrain tires, 4WD with low range and Tow strap as required, and 2"+ lift kit and Skid plates as recommended. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
No reports yet
Lincoln National Forest spreads across the Sacramento and Guadalupe mountain ranges of southern New Mexico, offering a cool mountain escape from the desert heat below. Dense pine forests, rocky mountain trails, and the legacy of the Lincoln County War create a unique blend of natural beauty and Wild West history.
Fun Facts
Lincoln National Forest is named for Abraham Lincoln, who signed the Homestead Act.
Billy the Kid's most famous escape was from the Lincoln County Courthouse in 1881.
The Sacramento Mountains rise to nearly 10,000 feet from the desert floor.
Smokey Bear, the real bear that inspired the campaign, was rescued from a wildfire in this forest in 1950.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
🛡️ Protection
Closest campgrounds to Lincoln National Forest:
- Sam Tobias Memorial Group Campground · 1 mi (straight-line)
- Pine Ridge RV Campground · Ruidoso · 3 mi (straight-line)
- Skyline Campground · 6 mi (straight-line)
- South Fork Campground · 8 mi (straight-line)
- Three Rivers Campground · 13 mi (straight-line)
- Sands Motel & RV Park · Carrizozo · 23 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Ruidoso, NM
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.