Cibola National Forest – Image Gallery

Cibola National Forest

Details

Cibola National Forest

The Cibola National Forest is located in New Mexico and covers over 1.6 million acres of diverse landscapes and ecosystems. The forest is divided into four ranger districts: Sandia, Mountainair, Magdalena, and Mt. Taylor. Each district offers unique opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

Features:

• Mountains: The Cibola National Forest is home to several mountain ranges, including the Sandia Mountains, Manzano Mountains, Magdalena Mountains, and Mount Taylor. These mountains offer a variety of hiking, camping, and scenic vistas.
• Forests: The forest is predominantly covered in coniferous trees such as Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and spruce. There are also areas of mixed oak and juniper woodlands, as well as grasslands and meadows.
• Wildlife: The Cibola National Forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elk, deer, black bears, mountain lions, and numerous bird species. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting golden eagles, hawks, and other raptors.
• Recreation: The forest offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, mountain biking, and horseback riding. There are also designated wilderness areas for those seeking a more remote and pristine experience.

Ecological Significance:

The Cibola National Forest plays a crucial role in preserving the biodiversity of the region and providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. The forest helps protect watersheds and provides clean water for surrounding communities. It also serves as a carbon sink, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Additionally, the forest provides important economic benefits to local communities through tourism and outdoor recreation. Visitors to the Cibola National Forest can experience the beauty of New Mexico's natural landscapes while supporting the conservation efforts of the forest service.

Cibola National Forest

Points of Interest

Cibola National Forest Points of Interest:

• Sandia Peak: Offering breathtaking views of Albuquerque and the surrounding landscape, Sandia Peak is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The Sandia Peak Tramway provides a scenic ride to the mountain's summit.
• Manzano Mountains: The Manzano Mountains offer numerous hiking trails, camping opportunities, and wildlife viewing. One of the most popular trails is the Crest Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Mount Taylor: At an elevation of over 11,000 feet, Mount Taylor is a prominent landmark in the Cibola National Forest. Hiking to the summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• El Malpais National Monument: Located within the Cibola National Forest, El Malpais National Monument features unique volcanic landscapes, ancient lava flows, and hiking opportunities. The La Ventana Arch is a popular natural arch within the monument.
• Gila Wilderness: Part of the larger Gila National Forest, the Gila Wilderness is a designated wilderness area within the Cibola National Forest. It offers rugged terrain, scenic rivers, and abundant wildlife for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Cibola National Forest – Images

Description: Cibola National Forest - Scenery along Route 66

Image by Eden Aviv – CC0 – Wikimedia

Description: This sign announcing entry into the Cibola National Forest sits near the base of the Sandia Mountains near Albuquerque New Mexico, USA. The surrounding vegetation is indicative of scrub land and desert, with many palms and cacti. The photo was taken from the cable lift to the mountain top.

Image by M. Readey – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Cibola National Forest - Scenery along Route 66

Image by Eden Aviv – CC0 – Wikimedia

Description: Cibola National Forest (2)

Image by Eden Aviv – CC0 – Wikimedia

Description: Clumps of dead grass in the foreground with a bush covered hill behind it. Strip Mine Trail, Cibola National Forest, New Mexico.

Image by G. Edward Johnson – CC BY 4.0 – Wikimedia

Description: A hill rendered orange by the fading light. Seen from Strip Mine Trail, Cibola National Forest, New Mexico.

Image by G. Edward Johnson – CC BY 4.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Red dirt shows through the grass and bushses on hills along Strip Mine Trail, Cibola National Forest, New Mexico.

Image by G. Edward Johnson – CC BY 4.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Strip Mine Trail goes through a patch of bare red dirt. Strip Mine Trail, Cibola National Forest, New Mexico.

Image by G. Edward Johnson – CC BY 4.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Clumps of dead grass and bushes in the forground with bush covered hills behind it. As seen from Chalk Dust trail, Cibola National Forest, New Mexico.

Image by G. Edward Johnson – CC BY 4.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Scattered bushes and grass cover the hils leading up to a mountain crest. View from Chalk Dust trail, Cibola National Forest, New Mexico.

Image by G. Edward Johnson – CC BY 4.0 – Wikimedia