![Picture of forest view](/peth04/20041031171520im_/http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/carson/about_us/images/veiw_bute2.JPG)
Our Mission: Caring for the Land and Serving People
This involves taking care of the land while making the forest resources
available to all our share holders. Resources include high quality water,
wilderness and outdoor recreation; quality habitat for many plants and
animals; wood for paper, homes and hundreds of other uses; forage for
wildlife and livestock; a source of minerals.
The Forest
The Carson National Forest is one of five National Forests in New Mexico.
The National Forests are America's Great outdoors, here to serve the American
people at work and play!
Some of the finest mountain scenery in the Southwest is found in the
1.5 million acres covered by the Carson National Forest. Elevations rise
from 6,000 feet to 13,161 feet at Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico.
Our objective is to maintain that natural beauty.
Recreation Opportunities
The Carson National Forest offers unlimited recreational opportunities
in any season. The magnificent mountain scenery and cool summer temperatures
lure vacationers to enjoy the peace and quiet, for fishing, hunting, camping,
and hiking. Winter activities include skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
Some recreation areas have undergone new and exciting renovations to
make the National Forest lands accessible to all. Plans are being implemented
to make additional recreation areas accessible. For the most current information
on these and other areas, please check with your local Forest Service
office.
Wilderness![Picture of Big Horn Sheep](/peth04/20041031171520im_/http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/carson/about_us/images/horns.JPG)
There are 86,193 acres of wilderness in the Carson. Wilderness is land
set aside as part of wild America, where man can be a visitor. The natural
environment has not been disturbed. Travel is restricted to foot or horseback.
No mechanized equipment is allowed. Wilderness areas include:
- Wheeler Peak
- Latir Peak
- Pecos
- Cruces Basin
- Columbine-Hondo (proposed wilderness area)
Camping
There are many established campgrounds available; with drinking water,
toilets and without drinking water.
For those who want to get away, the Carson provides opportunities for
back-country car and backpack camping. With few exceptions, visitors can
roam the woods at will, wrapped in a cloak of peace and quiet. For more
information, ask for a camping guide to the Carson.
Fish and Wildlife
Big game animals roam the Carson. They include mule deer, elk, antelope,
black bear, mountain lion, and bighorn sheep. There are also many species
of smaller animals and songbirds. Forest personnel work closely with the
State Game and Fish Department to provide the best wildlife habitat possible.
The Carson has 400 miles of sparkling clean mountain streams and numerous
lakes. Many are stocked with native trout by the New Mexico Department
of Game and Fish.
Trails
There are 330 miles of trails, some maintained by
lunteer groups. Opportunities abound for hiking, horseback riding, mountain
biking, and 4-wheel drive exploring.
Many summer hiking trails and forest roads become cross-country ski and
snowmobile trails in winter. Trail guides are available at any Carson
office.
Winter Recreation
Some of the finest alpine downhill skiing in the US is found at Taos Ski
Valley, Red River and Sipapu Ski Areas. All are located within the forest.
In addition, Angel Fire, Rio Costilla Ski Areas and Enchanted Forest-Cross
Country Ski Area are located on nearby private lands.
History:
Carson
National Forest Historical Photos
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