Carson National Forest – Image Gallery

Carson National Forest

Details

Carson National Forest

The Carson National Forest is located in northern New Mexico and covers over 1.5 million acres of land. It was established in 1908 and is named after the famous frontiersman Kit Carson. The forest is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from high desert plains to alpine tundra.

• Features
• The forest is home to several mountain ranges, including the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Jemez Mountains.
• There are over 330 miles of hiking trails, offering visitors the chance to explore the forest's scenic beauty.
• The Carson National Forest is also known for its abundance of wildlife, including elk, deer, black bear, and bald eagles.
• Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities in the forest.

• Ecological Significance
• The Carson National Forest plays a crucial role in preserving the region's biodiversity.
• The forest is home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered.
• It also serves as an important watershed, providing clean water to nearby communities and supporting local ecosystems.
• Preserving the Carson National Forest is essential for maintaining the health of the region's ecosystems and ensuring the survival of its diverse plant and animal life.

Carson National Forest

Points of Interest

Popular Points of Interest in Carson National Forest

• Wheeler Peak: Standing at 13,161 feet, Wheeler Peak is the highest point in New Mexico. Visitors can hike to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Taos Ski Valley: Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, Taos Ski Valley offers a variety of runs for all skill levels. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides.
• Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway: This 83-mile loop takes visitors through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the Carson National Forest, including the towns of Taos, Red River, and Angel Fire.
• Wild Rivers Recreation Area: Located along the Rio Grande Gorge, this area offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping. The nearby La Junta Overlook provides stunning views of the confluence of the Rio Grande and Red River.
• Valle Vidal: This pristine wilderness area is home to elk, deer, and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the Valle Vidal on foot, horseback, or mountain bike, and enjoy camping under the stars.

Carson National Forest – Images

Image by Department of Agriculture. Forest Service. 7/1/1905 – Public domain – Wikimedia

Image by Department of Agriculture. Forest Service. 7/1/1905 – Public domain – Wikimedia

Image by Department of Agriculture. Forest Service. 7/1/1905 – Public domain – Wikimedia

Image by Department of Agriculture. Forest Service. 7/1/1905 – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Carson National Forest

Image by U.S. Forest Service-Carson National Forest – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Map of the Carson National Forest — in Northern New Mexico.

Image by Published by USDA Forest Service – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Lake Fork, Pueblo, and Wheeler Peals, taken from along New Mexico highway 518 (mileposts 60-61), between Ranchos de Taos and Penasco.

Image by David Herrera from Albuquerque, NM, Bernalillo – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Now is a great time to see wildlfowers growing on the Carson National Forest. Check out this beautiful Mariposa Lily growing in Vallecitos Meadow below Picuris Peak on the Camino Real Ranger District.

Image by Carson National Forest U.S. Forest Service – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Robberfly - Stenopogoninae subfamily - Echo Amphitheater, Carson National Forest, New Mexico.

Image by Judy Gallagher – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Starlink Satellites over Carson National Forest, New Mexico, photographed soon after launch.

Image by Mike Lewinsky – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia