Discover the Wonders of Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history of Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area, a natural gem in New Mexico.
Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area is a breathtaking natural gem in New Mexico, offering rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique cave exploration opportunities for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility in nature.
A brief summary to Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area
- 104 Kit Carson Rd, Fort Stanton, New Mexico, 88323, US
- +1575-627-0272
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for exploring the cave and surrounding trails.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning geological formations inside the cave.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the area.
- Plan your visit during the cooler months for a more comfortable cave tour experience.
- Don't forget to bring water and snacks for your outdoor adventures.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the center of the Rio Grande Valley. Use Interstate 25 (I-25) North towards Santa Fe. After approximately 35 miles, take exit 83 for US-70 East towards Ruidoso. Continue on US-70 for about 45 miles. Once you reach Ruidoso, take NM-48 North for about 18 miles until you reach Fort Stanton. The entrance to the Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area is located at 104 Kit Carson Rd, Fort Stanton, NM 88323. Keep an eye out for the signage indicating the conservation area.
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Public Transportation
If you are relying on public transportation, take a Greyhound or local bus service to Ruidoso. From Ruidoso, you will need to arrange for a taxi or ride-sharing service (like Uber or Lyft) as public transport does not directly reach Fort Stanton. The approximate taxi fare from Ruidoso to Fort Stanton is around $30-$40, and it is advisable to book the ride in advance.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, biking to the Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area is an option. Starting from Ruidoso, take NM-48 North. Please note that this route has limited bike lanes, so be cautious of traffic. The distance from Ruidoso to Fort Stanton is about 18 miles, and it may take 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your cycling speed and stops along the way.
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Walking
Walking to Fort Stanton from Ruidoso is not recommended due to the distance (approximately 18 miles) and lack of pedestrian pathways along NM-48. It would be more practical to use public transport or a taxi from Ruidoso.
Discover more about Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area
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