SUGARITE CANYON STATE PARK
To get to Sugarite Canyon State Park, take I-25 exit 452 at Raton, follow NM 72 east for 3.5 miles, and go north on NM 526 for about two miles to the visitor center.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Boating enthusiasts can enjoy non-motorized boating on Lake Alice and Lake Maloya, two bodies of water within the park. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities here. However, swimming is not permitted in either lake to maintain their natural beauty and ecosystem health.
Visitors can enjoy fishing in two lakes, Lake Alice and Lake Maloya. The species available include rainbow trout.
Lake Maloya is stocked with fish throughout the year for a consistent angling experience.
In winter months, ice fishing on frozen lake surfaces offers an exciting challenge to anglers.
Fishing licenses are required before casting lines into these waters teeming with aquatic life.
Fly-fishermen will also find plenty of opportunities here due to abundant insect hatches that attract hungry trout.
Sugarite Canyon State Park is
Sugarite Canyon State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, surrounded by beautiful scenery. Some sites are ADA accessible.
Biking enthusiasts can enjoy several trails within this park. However, caution is advised due to varying terrain and difficulty levels.
The Lake Alice Trail offers a moderate 2-mile ride with beautiful lake views but requires careful navigation around hikers.
For more experienced cyclists, the Coal Camp Loop provides an intense uphill climb followed by a thrilling descent through dense forested areas.
Remember that weather conditions may affect trail accessibility; always check forecasts before setting out on your adventure.
It's crucial to respect wildlife habitats when biking in these natural surroundings - stay alert for animals crossing paths or nesting nearby.
Ensure you have adequate water supplies as there are limited refill stations along most routes here.
Lastly, helmets should be worn at all times while cycling - safety first!
Located in New Mexico, the park offers birding opportunities with over 100 species to spot. Birders can explore diverse habitats such as wetlands and forests. The area is home to a variety of birds including wild turkeys, hummingbirds, eagles and owls. There are also guided bird walks available for enthusiasts.
Take a Walk Through History : The Coal Camp Interpretive Trail winds through the ruins of the Sugarite coal camp. Coal mining in the area provided an important economic boost to the region and state. The visitor center provides information about the coal camp and the area's history.
Captivating Caprock : An extended cliff of basaltic rock columns, often referred to as "caprock" is the dominant geologic feature at the park. About 12 million years ago, broad sheets of molten lava erupted from a nearby volcano, forming layers of basalt rock 10-100 feet thick. Rock climbing is allowed on the caprock.