Spring into 'Doso

Days are longer, weather’s warmer, it’s time to go to the mountain!

There is no shortage of activities in Ruidoso. They range like the wildlife in and around the Lincoln National Forest. No matter the budget, there’s always something to do.

Let’s start with the free, family stuff:

The US Forest Service has parks and trails (from easy to difficult) throughout our area. A day can be easily spent exploring trails around Bonita Lake, Eagle Creek and Cedar Creek. Be sure and take snacks and plenty of water. Stop by the Smokey Bear Ranger Station for directions, and always let someone know where you are going to be!

Spring Ruidoso — A group from El Paso enjoys disc golf below Grindstone Dam.

Ruidoso Parks and Recreation offers similar destinations with playgrounds, tennis courts, and disc golf courses. If you haven’t been disc golfing in the mountains, well . . . Spring has sprung! Ask any of the shops in Midtown how to get outfitted for disc golfing.

If you’re looking for vistas, take the road to Ski Apache, or explore the Main Road in Upper Canyon. Kids Konnection is a great playground next to the Sports Complex. Kite flying anyone?

If you like history, the Billy the Kid Scenic Byway is just the ticket.Be sure and visit the museums in Lincoln, Capitan, Carrizozo and Ruidoso. This ain’t school; it’s a hands-on field trip, folks! If you make it to Capitan and Carrizozo, visit the local shops and Smokey Bear and the Valley of Fires.

Hey! You’re in the mountains! How about biking and fishing? Some trails are specificallydesignated for biking. Fishing licenses and gear are inexpensive, and you can fish many places at various times of day. As Jack Nicklaus put it, “There are always new places to go fishing.” Seeping Springs R.V. Park offers low cost fishing for families and groups.

Want to spend a little money?

Okay, how about Fun Trackers for go karts and putt-putt, Grindstone Stables for carriage and trail rides, and Bowling for some good old-fashioned fun. Then, choose from the many fine dining to café restaurants, trading posts, galleries and stores!