Stretching 14 miles through the Lincoln National Forest, Sunspot Scenic Byway roams the front rim of the resplendent Sacramento Mountains, thrilling travelers with various scenic opportunities and astounding views of the Tularosa Basin and the ceaselessly shifting sand dunes of White Sands National Monument.
The byway meanders through woods full of ponderosa pine, aspen, and oak. From two interpretative vistas travelers admire the mountain-ringed valley of the Tularosa Basin and one of the world's great natural curiosities, the ever-gleaming White Sands. Picnickers and campers revel in the peaceful and secluded woods of the Lincoln National Forest. Hikers and horseback riders stroll along a variety of trails, such as Rim Trail, a National Recreation Trail paralleling the byway for 13 miles.
Fisherman pursuing rainbow and brown trout repose by the Rio Penasco, a lazy rambling stream. Winter sports one can enjoy range from downhill skiing to snowshoeing. Designated snowplay areas attract families for hours of winter fun. Wildlife watchers enjoy Lincoln's abundant animal life; black bears, elk, and mule deer roam the forest while eagles, hawks, and spotted owl patrol the skies.
Offering a seemingly endless array of outdoor adventures and arresting panoramas, Sunspot Scenic Byway delights visitors again and again, making this short expanse of highway a relaxing yet exciting trip anytime of the year.
