Carson National Forest

The Carson National Forest offers unlimited recreational opportunities in any season.

Photo credit: USDA Forest Service

The Carson National Forest is one of five National Forests in New Mexico. The National Forests are America's Great outdoors, here to serve the American people at work and play! Some of the finest mountain scenery in the Southwest is found in the 1.5 million acres covered by the Carson National Forest. Elevations rise from 6,000 feet to 13,161 feet at Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico. Our objective is to maintain that natural beauty.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/carson/

Wilderness Areas/Wild & Scenic Rivers

Chama River Canyon Wilderness - Anglers can enjoy trout fishing and rafters can explore the Wild and Scenic Chama River on this Wilderness.

Columbine-Hondo Wilderness - Columbine-Hondo Wilderness is a 44,698-acre  Wilderness is located within the Questa Ranger District. 

Cruces Basin Wilderness - Lack of designation of trails and difficult access contribute to the pristine nature of this wilderness providing excellent opportunities for solitude.

Latir Peak Wilderness - This remote area contains deep forest cover interrupted by meadows and streams with alpine tundra and alpine lakes found at higher elevations.

Pecos Wilderness - Elk, mule deer, black bear, turkey, and Rocky Mountain Big Horn sheep can all be found in the Pecos. 

Wheeler Peak Wilderness - Wheeler Peak attracts many visitors, making the Wheeler Peak Wilderness the most heavily used within the Carson National Forest.

Invasive Species