Nogal Peak Loop via Skull Springs Trail #41

Starting out at 7,200 feet you walk through 2 miles of relatively flat, beautiful forests and streams - at mile 2 you begin the ascent to the trail ridge with about an 800 foot elevation climb. Once you reach the top of the trail, you are surrounded by gorgeous panoramic views of both Sierra Blanca, the Capitans and Nogal Peak.Once at the top, you have about 1.5 miles down to the road to finish...

Get started at the visitor center to get the lay of the land. Then, take your time visiting all the historic buildings that are open to the public. This is a great family stop on a road trip as well as a good place to escape the heat during the summer. 

The site is North of Tularosa, NM and is easily accessible. There is good parking and the trail is not very difficult to walk. There are many petroglyphs to be admired. There are good views of the Tularosa basin and the Sacramento mountains. It is best not to go in the summer as it is very hot and there is no shade. 

Went to Lincoln State Monument on Lincoln day. Lots of activities with reanactments  and all historic buildings open. Interesting museum and older buildings. Lots of history about Billy the Kid. The drive from Ruidoso to Lincoln is also very scenic. There are places here where you can eat lunch.

Pleasant hike located in the higher elevations of the Sacramento Mountains . Fairly easy hike through forests and meadows. Very good views of the mountains, Whitesands National Monument and Cloudcroft. Abundant wildflowers in the summer. Good opportunity to connect to other trails in the area.  Much cooler temperatures than in the valleys in the summer . The trail is also good to see some fall ...

Fairly easy trail on an old railroad bed. The trail is not steep and has nice scenery. The waterfall is sall but scenic, it is nice to see soe running water in the desert.