| CLIMATE
The climate in northern New Mexico is mild. The summer
and fall months are characterized by daytime temperatures
in the mid-80’s and chilly nights. Winters are also
mild, but snow depths can average 8 to 10 feet. The monsoon
season normally begins mid-July and lasts until mid-September.
Hikers and campers should prepare for these rainstorms.
FISH & WILDLIFE
Fishing is a great way to enjoy the forest.
The SFNF has more than 620 miles of streams and lakes. Many
of these aquatic areas are stocked with Rainbow Trout and
the native Cutthroat Trout. Fishing licenses can be obtained
at the New Mexico Game and Fish Department.
Game animals roam the Santa Fe. They include
mule deer, elk, turkey, black bear, mountain lion, and bighorn
sheep. There are many species of smaller animals and song-birds.
Wildflowers abound.
WILDERNESS
There are 291,669 acres of wilderness in the Santa Fe.
Wilderness is land set aside as part of wild America, where
man is visitor. The natural environment has not been disturbed
and travel is restricted to foot or horseback. No mechanical
equipment is allowed. Wilderness areas include Pecos, San
Pedro Parks, Dome, and the Chama River Canyon. Together
these areas contain a rich, diverse resource, including
13,000 foot alpine peaks, large grassy and aspen filled
meadows, streams, rivers, and glacial lakes, dramatic colorful
canyons, and a broad range of wildlife, cultural resources,
and recreation opportunities.
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TRAILS
There are 1,002 miles of trails, some maintained
by volunteer groups. Opportunities abound for hiking, horseback
riding, trail-biking, and 4-wheel drive exploring. Many summer
hiking trails become cross-country ski and snowmobile trails
in winter.
CAMPING
Presently, there are 23 campgrounds, 13 picnic areas,
and one scenic overlook on the Santa Fe. In addition, there
are countless opportunities for back-country camping, backpacking,
hunting, and fishing. Without a doubt, the Santa Fe offers
a variety of experiences for those seeking quality outdoor
recreation visits.
Whether you plan a day trip or an overnight camping trip,
the SFNF offers a variety of recreational areas in the high
desert, mountain or riparian areas. Most overnight camping
spots cost an average of $6.00 a night. Reservations are
required for group camp sites (1-877-444-6777 or ReserveUSA.com)
FUELWOOD
At specific times throughout the year,
the National Forest offers firewood permits. Permits are
for dead and down trees, green piñon-juniper and
pine are also available. During the holiday season, the
SFNF sells permits for Christmas trees. All of these permits
may be purchased at the Supervisor’s Office in Santa
Fe, or Ranger District offices.
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Santa Fe NF Administrative Units