Off Roading
Explore Beyond the Pavement
Off-Road Adventures in Angel Fire
Trade the highway for dirt roads, mountain passes, and unforgettable views. Whether you’re behind the wheel of your own Jeep, driving an ATV or UTV, or renting a side-by-side for the day, Angel Fire is your gateway to miles of scenic backcountry exploration.
From easy forest roads to rugged mountain routes, Carson National Forest offers endless opportunities to discover hidden meadows, alpine overlooks, historic logging roads, wildlife, and mountain landscapes you simply can’t reach by pavement.
Why Get Off Road in Angel Fire?
Wide Open Adventure Awaits!
Angel Fire sits on the doorstep of Carson National Forest, giving off-road enthusiasts access to dozens of miles of public forest roads and backcountry routes.
Whether you’re planning a scenic afternoon drive or an all-day expedition, you’ll discover:
Mountain passes
Aspen forests
Hidden meadows
Historic logging roads
Wildlife viewing
Remote overlooks
Creek crossings (season permitting)
Endless mountain scenery
Most routes can be enjoyed by Jeeps, SUVs with four-wheel drive, side-by-sides, ATVs, and adventure motorcycles.
Scenic Drives Worth the Dust
Not every adventure has to be about conquering rugged terrain. Some of the best days in Angel Fire are spent cruising scenic forest roads, discovering hidden overlooks, and enjoying the quiet beauty of Carson National Forest.
Within minutes of town, you’ll find miles of maintained dirt roads that wind through towering pines, colorful aspen groves, mountain meadows, and high-country passes. Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and take your time—these backroads are all about the journey as much as the destination.
Whether you’re driving a Jeep, SUV, pickup, or side-by-side, there are plenty of routes suited for leisurely exploration, wildlife viewing, and unforgettable mountain scenery.
Explore the Trail Network
Featured Rides
Forest Road 76 (Osha Pass)
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: Approximately 30 miles
Vehicle: High-clearance SUV, Jeep, UTV
One of the area’s signature backcountry drives, Forest Road 76 climbs through Carson National Forest before crossing beautiful Osha Pass toward Tres Ritos. Expect mountain views, dense forests, wildlife, and plenty of opportunities to stop for photos.
Perfect for a half- or full-day adventure.
Forest Road 722
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Variable
Vehicle: Most SUVs, Jeeps & UTVs
A relaxing forest drive ideal for families and first-time off-roaders. Wide roads, gentle grades, and beautiful scenery make this a great introduction to exploring the national forest.
Apache Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Known for its winding forest roads and mountain scenery, Apache Trail is popular with Jeep and side-by-side riders looking for a scenic adventure without tackling extremely technical terrain.
La Junta Canyon
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
This route ventures deeper into the backcountry, rewarding experienced riders with dramatic canyon scenery, creek crossings (season dependent), and fewer crowds.
La Jara Canyon
Difficulty: Moderate
Explore quiet forests and rolling mountain terrain as this scenic route winds through one of the lesser-known sections of Carson National Forest.
Rio Chaquito
Difficulty: Moderate
A beautiful route combining mountain meadows, creek corridors, and forest roads that showcase Northern New Mexico’s diverse landscapes.
Keep Your Camera Ready
Off-road adventures often lead to unforgettable wildlife encounters. Watch for elk, mule deer, wild turkey, foxes, hawks, and other native wildlife throughout Carson National Forest.
Suggested Day Trips
Scenic Forest Loop
Angel Fire → FR76 → Osha Pass → Tres Ritos → Mora → Angel Fire
Perfect for:
✔ Scenic driving
✔ Wildlife
✔ Photography
Forest Explorer
Angel Fire → FR722 → Carson National Forest → Return
Perfect for:
✔ Families
✔ Rental UTVs
✔ Picnic stops
✔ Half-day ride
Canyon Adventure
Angel Fire → La Jara Canyon → La Junta Canyon → Return
Perfect for:
✔ Experienced riders
✔ Jeeps
✔ Side-by-side
Where to Ride
Access Points
Several forest access points make it easy to begin your adventure.
Forest Road 76 Trailhead
Zia Road
Brazos area under the powerlines
Additional National Forest access points
Know Before You Go
Ride Responsibly
Adventure starts with preparation.
Check current weather and fire restrictions.
Download offline trail maps.
Carry extra water.
Pack recovery gear.
Tell someone your route.
Fuel up before leaving town.
Stay on designated roads.
Respect private property and wildlife.
Cell service can be limited once you enter the national forest, and afternoon mountain storms are common during the summer.
Bringing Your Own Machine?
If you’re visiting with your own ATV or UTV, New Mexico requires OHVs to comply with current state registration and operating requirements. Riders should also familiarize themselves with Village of Angel Fire roadway regulations before driving within town limits.
OHV Rules & Requirements
Village of Angel Fire Rules
Road-Only Riding:
You can ride inside village limits, but only on designated public roadways. There are no “open” OHV recreation areas or off-road trailheads within the village itself. [1]
Highway Restrictions:
OHVs are completely prohibited on US Highway 64 and NM State Highway 434. [1]
Carson National Forest:
There are no legal entry points into the Carson National Forest directly from the Village of Angel Fire limits. You will need to trailer your OHV to designated National Forest trailheads.
New Mexico State OHV Requirements
Permitting:
All OHVs operated on public lands or roads in NM require an OHV registration/permit, available through the New Mexico Game and Fish Online Licensing System. Non-residents with a valid OHV registration from another state are not required to purchase a New Mexico permit. [1, 2]
Safety & Youth Rules:
Riders under age 18 are required to complete a certified OHV safety course, obtain an education card, and wear a DOT-approved helmet and protective eyewear. Youth under 15 may not carry passengers. [1, 2, 3]
Equipment:
Your OHV must have working headlights and taillights if riding between sunset and sunrise, as well as a functional braking system.
Don't Have Your Own UTV?
No problem! Rent a side-by-side from a local outfitter and hit the trails in minutes.
Explore Angel Fire with UTV Rentals
Ready to discover Angel Fire’s breathtaking landscapes? Angel’s Outback offers top-notch UTV rentals that let you experience the beauty of the Enchanted Circle up close. Whether you’re cruising through scenic trails or tackling rugged terrain, their rentals provide the perfect way to explore the area. Need maps or expert advice? They’ve got you covered with all the essentials to make your adventure safe, fun, and unforgettable.
Summer Excursions with Weezie's Wild Rides
Explore Angel Fire’s stunning landscapes on an exciting guided ATV tour, where you’ll navigate through breathtaking mountain views, hidden trails, and lush forests. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, Weezie’s Wild Rides offers the perfect way to discover the outdoors in a fun and unique way.
Experience the wild side of Angel Fire and make memories that will last a lifetime!
