About Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail
The Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail is an easy-to-moderate excursion on a 2 1/2 mile loop running up the river from the trailhead to the Petroglyph Rock where visitors of another time left images of their Water God. Easy river access to Bonito Creek and its towering cottonwood, walnut, and oak trees. Trout fishing is good in the spring but creek dries up in summer.The trail can be reached from NM 220, west of the Sierra Blanca Regional Airport. Follow the highway signs stating "Upper Rio Bonito" to the bottom of the hill and turn left for approximately one mile until you reach the trailhead (high-clearance vehicles are recommended). The loop trail is approximately 2.1 miles in total length and is easy to moderate hiking with a few hills and areas with loose footing. Plan to spend approximately one hour on the trail.
How to Get There
From Capitan, NM, drive on US 380 east 4.25 miles to NM 220. From Lincoln, NM, drive west 7.7 miles to NM 220. Drive south one mile to the equestrian trailhead. The historic Fort Stanton is approximately one mile further on NM 220. BLM is investigating the opportunity to provide visitor services information about the NCA at Lincoln, Capitan, Ruidoso, and at the historic Fort Stanton.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail
Heading to Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail?
Yes — reservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Popular sites fill quickly, especially weekends and holidays. Book up to 6 months in advance.
How do I get to Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail?
From Capitan, NM, drive on US 380 east 4.25 miles to NM 220. From Lincoln, NM, drive west 7.7 miles to NM 220. Drive south one mile to the equestrian trailhead. The historic Fort Stanton is approximately one mile further on NM 220. BLM is investigating the opportunity to provide visitor services information about the NCA at Lincoln, Capitan, Ruidoso, and at the historic Fort Stanton.
How do I contact Rio Bonito Petroglyph National Recreation Trail?
You can reach the park at phone: (575) 627-0272.
References & Official Resources
