Editor Pick
Lincoln Nat'l. Forest - Monjeau Lookout Area
- November 6, 2000
- Rated 4 of 5 by
lubmac from Lubbock, Texas
For a little trip out of the way and yet worth the effort in getting there, drive North on Hwy. 48 out of Ruidoso and turn left at Ski Run Rd. Next, turn right onto USFS Rd. 117 and follow its twists and turns to Monjeau Peak. The steep and rocky road serves well to keep casual tourists from spoiling the area, and the hairpin turns near the top will even make a stout-hearted driver take notes and be extra careful. I have never been up to Monjeau Lookout and not seen deer and other wildlife along the way, so watch closely. As you drive up the mountain, you will be treated to a host of beautiful mountain vistas, high meadows, and steep slopes to check out. There is a couple of picnic areas and primitive camping areas that face majestic Sierra Blanca, and you'll also find the trailhead for Crest Trail, Part 1.(The Crest Trail is a trip all it's own, treking across the tops of the local range, all with a spectacular vantage point.) Finally, you will arrive at the parking area for the Lookout. Take the trail and climb the railroad-tie stairs to the stone lookout tower. From the observation deck, you will have an unobstucted 360 degree view of the Sacramento Mountains and the vast plains surrounding them. Believe me, it will worth the climb.
From journal Weekend Run to Ruidoso, New Mexico