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Introduction

The United States Congress designated the Cruces Basin Wilderness (map) in 1980 and it now has a total of 18,000 acres. All of this wilderness is located in New Mexico and is managed by the Forest Service.

Description

Cruces Basin Wilderness, located just south of the Colorado line, contains some of New Mexico's most pristine country. Cruces Basin Wilderness contains great opportunities for solitude.

A mountain plateau sets the stage, with backdrops ranging from ridges covered in spruce, fir, and aspen up to 10,900 feet to a grass carpet that extends down to 8,600 feet.

Planning to Visit the Cruces Basin Wilderness?

• Print a fact sheet
• General things to consider when visiting any wilderness
• Regulations
• Contact the Forest Service

Leave No Trace

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Cruces Basin Wilderness.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

For more information on Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.