Hiking the Space Trail: An Adventurer’s Guide to Lincoln National Forest, Cloudcroft
The Space Trail in Lincoln National Forest beckons adventurers with its blend of manageable distance and rugged forest scenery. Perfect for both seasoned hikers and curious explorers, this trail offers refreshing mountain air, varied terrain, and breathtaking views of southeastern New Mexico's high country.
Trail Tips
Start Early to Beat the Heat
Cloudcroft’s high elevation cools the air, but summer sun on open sections can be intense. Begin hiking at dawn to enjoy comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
Bring Adequate Hydration
The dry mountain air dehydrates faster than you might expect. Carry at least 2 liters of water and consider electrolyte supplements during warmer months.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Footwear
Mixed rocky and dirt trail surfaces require good ankle support and traction to avoid slips, especially after rain or morning dew.
Use a Map or GPS Device
Cell reception is spotty. A dedicated trail map or offline GPS app ensures you don’t stray and can locate key viewpoints safely.
Hiking the Space Trail: An Adventurer’s Guide to Lincoln National Forest, Cloudcroft
The Space Trail in Lincoln National Forest near Cloudcroft, New Mexico, invites hikers to engage with the forest’s ancient voice and elemental power. This 3.5-mile loop stretches through mixed pine and fir stands, climbing roughly 500 feet in elevation. The path’s terrain shifts comfortably from well-worn dirt to patches of rocky footing that demand focus but never overwhelm. As you step beneath the towering aspens and ponderosas, the trees seem to lean in, daring you to keep pace.
The Space Trail lives up to its name with dark, starlit clearings that showcase the vast New Mexico sky by night, but by day it reveals a grounded, earthbound challenge. The trail oscillates between shaded enclaves and broad overlooks where the wind pushes through the branches like a steady current urging you forward. Order your prep carefully: sturdy hiking shoes, layered clothing, and a filled water bottle are non-negotiable. The forest is fiercely itself here — neither forgiving nor intimidating, but demanding respect.
Begin early in the morning when cool mountain air carries the scent of pine needles and damp earth. The trail’s steady incline wakes the legs, and the gradual pace allows you to catch sight of local wildlife — mule deer dodging behind trees or an occasional glance from a curious junco. The forest is alive, observing your every move as you pass through.
Bring a map or download a GPS track—cell service can flicker like a candle in the forest depths. A moderate pace lets you savor short rock outcroppings with sweeping views of the Sacramento Mountains and distant deserts under a wide sky.
Beyond physicality, this hike asks for mindfulness. Respect for the trail’s fragile ecosystems preserves the star-filled nights cloudcroft is known for. Pack out what you bring in, tread lightly, and prepare for quick weather shifts common at 8,500 feet elevation.
Whether you’re chasing solitude or shared experience, the Space Trail offers both in measured balance. It’s compact enough for a half-day trip but wild enough to engage your sense of discovery and endurance. Follow the whispered call of the pines and the hidden, swirling currents of air to find a rewarding day on this practical yet stirring mountain escape.
Recommended Gear
Hiking Boots
Provides ankle support and traction over rocky and uneven ground.
null specific
Water Bottle or Hydration Pack
Critical for staying hydrated in dry mountain air.
summer specific
Layered Clothing
Allows adaptation to temperature swings common at higher elevations.
spring,fall,winter specific
GPS Device or Trail Map
Essential for navigation given spotty cell reception.
null specific
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Space Trail suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Space Trail is a moderate 3.5-mile loop with manageable elevation gain. Beginners with a reasonable fitness level and proper gear can complete it comfortably.
Are dogs allowed on the Space Trail?
Yes, dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and other hikers.
Is there cell phone reception on the trail?
Cell service is limited in many parts of the Lincoln National Forest, including sections of the Space Trail, so plan accordingly with a map or GPS.
What wildlife might I encounter on the trail?
Common sightings include mule deer, various songbirds, and occasionally black bears. Keep a respectful distance and store food securely.
Can I camp near the Space Trail?
While there are no designated campsites directly on the trail, several campgrounds exist within Lincoln National Forest near Cloudcroft.
What is the best time of day to hike the trail?
Early morning is ideal to avoid afternoon heat, crowds, and to catch wildlife activity.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "A small rock outcropping halfway around the loop offers unobstructed views east toward the desert floor below."
- "Several natural springs feed into small rivulets crossing the trail, creating pockets of lush moss and cool refuge."
Wildlife
- "Keep an eye out for the pine siskin, a small brown-streaked finch that flits through conifer branches."
- "Black bear activity is mostly nocturnal but hikers might notice fresh tracks or scat."
History
"Lincoln National Forest holds deep cultural significance to the Mescalero Apache tribe. Many areas around Cloudcroft were historically used for hunting and gathering."