Eagle Nest Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, must-try food and drink, where to stay, local culture, and safety tips in Eagle Nest, New Mexico with our tour guide.


Introduction to Eagle Nest

Nestled in the mountains, Eagle Nest, New Mexico boasts of breathtaking scenic views, historical landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Located in the north central part of the state, it’s a popular destination for travelers year-round.

List of Places to Visit in Eagle Nest

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Enchanted Circle Gateway Museum: Learn about the history of Eagle Nest and the surrounding areas. The museum features exhibits on local wildlife, mining, and the Old West.
  • Eagle Nest Lake State Park: Offering camping, fishing, and hiking, the park is also home to the ruins of the Elizabethtown ghost town.

Natural Attractions of Eagle Nest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Angel Fire Resort: Ski, snowboard, or mountain bike at this year-round resort. Be sure to take the scenic chairlift ride for panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park: Pay your respects at this solemn monument honoring New Mexican soldiers who served in the Vietnam War.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eagle Nest

  • Eagle Nest Lake State Park Trails: Choose from easy to moderate hiking trails, including the Cieneguilla Trail or the Eagle Rock Trail. These trails offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
  • Angel Fire Bike Park: Offering over 60 miles of trails, from beginner to expert-level, this park is perfect for mountain bikers.

Best Things to Do in Eagle Nest: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: Explore Eagle Nest’s backcountry by horseback with Enchanted Circle Trails.
  • Fishing: Cast a line at Eagle Nest Lake, where you can catch trout, salmon, and other species.
  • Golf: Enjoy a round of golf with scenic views at the Angel Fire Resort Golf Course.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eagle Nest

Day Activity
1 Visit the Enchanted Circle Gateway Museum
2 Hike the Cieneguilla Trail in Eagle Nest Lake State Park
3 Ski or snowboard at Angel Fire Resort
4 Explore the ruins of the Elizabethtown Ghost Town
5 Take a scenic chairlift ride at Angel Fire Resort
6 Go horseback riding with Enchanted Circle Trails
7 Play a round of golf at the Angel Fire Resort Golf Course

Food and Drink Scene of Eagle Nest

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chile Cheeseburger: A beloved New Mexico dish, this burger is topped with spicy green chile and melted cheese.
  • Posole: A traditional Mexican soup made with pork and hominy.
  • Frito Pie: A comfort food dish made with Fritos, chili, and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • New Mexico Wine: Savor the locally grown wine at the Wines of the San Juan vineyard.
  • Spicy Margarita: A twist on the classic margarita, this drink is made with spicy peppers.

Where to Stay in Eagle Nest: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Laguna Vista Lodge: A cozy lodge with rustic decor, located near the Enchanted Circle Gateway Museum.
  • Angel Fire Resort: A year-round resort offering skiing, golfing, and other activities.

What to Buy in Eagle Nest: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery: Handcrafted pottery is a popular souvenir in New Mexico. Buy a piece from the Enchanted Circle Pottery Studio.
  • Jewelry: Turquoise and silver jewelry are popular in the southwest. Find a unique piece at the Golden Eagle Gallery.

Local Culture and Customs of Eagle Nest

The state of New Mexico is known for its rich culture and traditions, heavily influenced by its Native American and Spanish heritage. Visitors should be respectful and mindful of these cultural customs.

Best Time to Visit Eagle Nest

Eagle Nest can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, while winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eagle Nest

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately for outdoor activities.
  • Practice Leave No Trace principles while hiking and camping.

Don’t:

  • Pick or disturb wildflowers or wildlife.
  • Litter or leave trash behind in parks and natural areas.
  • Trespass on private property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eagle Nest

Eagle Nest is a small and safe town, but visitors should take precautions like locking their vehicles and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Eagle Nest

Visitors to the area should be aware of the high altitude and take necessary precautions to prevent altitude sickness, such as drinking plenty of water and taking it easy on physical activity.

Getting to Eagle Nest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eagle Nest

  • Albuquerque International Sunport: 156 miles south of Eagle Nest.
  • Santa Fe Regional Airport: 92 miles south of Eagle Nest.

Bus Stations Near Eagle Nest

  • Angel Fire Resort: The resort offers shuttle service to and from the Albuquerque airport.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Rent a car from major car rental agencies located at the Albuquerque or Santa Fe airports.

How to Get Around in Eagle Nest

While a personal vehicle is the most convenient way to get around Eagle Nest, visitors can also use the shuttle service provided by Angel Fire Resort.

Where to Go Next from Eagle Nest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Taos: Explore the history and culture of this charming southwestern town, located 44 miles north of Eagle Nest.
  • Red River: A popular ski resort town located 27 miles east of Eagle Nest.

Conclusion

Eagle Nest, New Mexico offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you visit for a weekend or a week-long vacation, this charming mountain town will leave you with unforgettable memories.