Fall in Northern New Mexico: Banco de Julian, Olguin Mesa & Cruces Basin Wilderness

Situated against the Colorado border in the Carson National Forest, the 18,000-plus acre Cruces Basin Wilderness is located in the high altitude grasslands and aspen stands of Northern New Mexico. Notable features in the Cruces Basin Wilderness include the Brazos Ridge, Toltec Mesa and Los Pinos River. The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railway wind through the sections of the wilderness between Cumbres Pass and Toltec Mesa. While the area is accessible by Forest Road 87, there are no designated trails in the Cruces Basin Wilderness; hikers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the area through use of paper maps and GPS—carrying a quality compass is always advised. Wildlife in the area includes mountain lion, black bear, bobcat, elk, mule deer, turkey and grouse. Streams support populations of Brook, Rainbow, and Brown Trout.